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Safe travels: Expert advice to help your vacation go smoothly

| Healthy You | Safety

Dad looking at young daughter in airport.

5 tips for a safe weekend away or trip somewhere exotic.

Many of us are eager to explore this year — whether near or far. With that said, a little time spent before a trip may make everything run more smoothly. As Benjamin Franklin famously said, “By failing to prepare, you're preparing to fail.”

How you prepare may vary based on whether you’re road tripping or flying. Some things will remain the same, like packing healthy snacks and staying hydrated. Here’s what to keep in mind.

  • Once you know how long you’ll be gone, check your medication supply to make sure you have enough. If not, get your prescription sent in for a refill as soon as possible.
    • Tip no. 1: Most medicine can be brought with you in your carry-on, and that’s recommended when traveling by plane.
  • Keep medicine cool if needed e.g. insulin for diabetes. Carry a small cooler with an ice pack that can be refrozen to help manage condition(s) in transit and while at your destination.
    • Tip no. 2: Call ahead and see if your hotel has a freezer or fridge that will work for your medicine.
  • Review insurance coverage. Check if your health insurance has specific clinics that you can go to if needed or if your coverage applies in the state or country you’re visiting.
    • Tip no. 3: Health travel insurance may be an option. If your health insurance doesn’t follow you when traveling out of the area, look into a back-up option.
  • Don’t forget sunscreen. Pack or buy a formula that is SPF 30 or higher and remember to wear it every day, even if it’s cloudy. You may also want one specifically designed for your face and a lip product with SPF.
    • Tip no. 4: Some locations require reef-safe sunscreen. This is usually included on the label.
  • Consider packing a travel first aid kit with common over-the-counter items like painkillers, antacids, anti-nausea drugs and adhesive bandages.

With a little preparation you can be ready for a trip near or far in an instant.

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