Travel Health Checklist: What You Need Before You Go

Planning a trip? Your health plan should be as solid as your itinerary. A quick checklist saves you from nasty surprises at the airport or on the road. Below is an easy‑to‑follow list that covers everything from vaccines to packing the right meds.

Doctor Visit and Vaccinations

The first stop is a visit to your doctor or a travel clinic. Tell them where you’re headed and how long you’ll stay – they’ll recommend the right shots. Common ones include hepatitis A, typhoid, and yellow fever for certain regions. Bring a copy of your vaccination record; some countries ask to see it on entry.

Prescription Medications

If you take prescription drugs, get enough supply for the whole trip plus a few extra days in case of delays. Ask your pharmacist if you need a travel‑friendly version (like pills that don’t need refrigeration). Keep meds in their original bottles with labels – customs officers love clear labeling.

Don’t forget any special prescriptions you might need abroad, such as malaria prophylaxis or altitude medication. You can order these safely from reputable online pharmacies like those featured on CanadaPharmacyOnline.com. Just verify the site’s credentials and read reviews before buying.

First‑Aid Kit Essentials

A compact first‑aid kit is a lifesaver. Pack band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen), anti‑diarrheal tablets, and any allergy meds you use. A small thermometer and a pair of tweezers are handy too.

For trips to remote areas, add water purification tablets or a portable filter, and a basic insect repellent with DEET. These items protect you from common travel bugs and nasty bites.

Food and Water Safety

One of the easiest ways to get sick is by drinking unsafe water or eating questionable street food. Stick to bottled or boiled water, avoid ice cubes unless you know they’re made from safe water, and eat foods that are cooked hot. When in doubt, choose fruits you can peel yourself – bananas, oranges, or avocados.

Travel Insurance and Emergency Contacts

Good travel insurance covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and sometimes even prescription refill services. Keep the policy number on your phone and a printed copy in your bag. Also write down emergency numbers for the local health system and the nearest embassy or consulate.

Personal Health Documents

Bring copies of your prescriptions, a list of allergies, and any chronic condition notes. A digital copy saved in a secure cloud folder helps if you lose the paper version. If you use a medical alert bracelet, make sure it’s on before you leave.

Final Quick‑Check Before You Leave

Run through this short list: doctor appointment booked? vaccinations up to date? enough meds packed with proper labeling? first‑aid kit ready? water safety plan set? insurance sorted? If you answer yes to all, you’re good to go. Enjoy your trip knowing you’ve covered the health basics. Safe travels!