As the holiday season approaches are you prepared?

The sun is shining and the children are breaking up from school, but are you ready for the holidays? There is a lot to think about whether you holiday at home or abroad, so we’ve created this blog to help guide you through the essentials.

Vaccinations

It’s worth checking if you are going somewhere exotic whether you need any vaccinations. Research as soon as you book so that you can get them in plenty of time before you travel.

Insurance

Having adequate medical insurance is essential to prevent any unexpected holiday costs and to protect you in the event of something happening.

And despite Brexit continuing past the original deadline, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is valid until we leave the EU, so check that you have a valid card and take it with you. If you need a new card you can still apply for one, but you will need to apply a few weeks before you go.

First aid kit

Pack a small first aid kit with some basic holiday first aid essentials such as plasters, pain killers, tweezers, antiseptic cream, after sun or moisturiser, antihistamines, insect repellent, sterile dressings, anti-diarrhoea and anti-malaria medication depending on the country you are going to.

Medications

Before you travel you should check for any restrictions or rules on the types of medication you are travelling with and the quantities you can carry. It is also advisable to take all medication including syringes and needles in your hand luggage but check with your airline for any restrictions.

You should keep all medication in the original packaging with the labels still on and carry with you a copy of your prescription to validate why you have the medication if questioned. You should only take sufficient levels of medication for the days you are away including an extra few days in case you get delayed.

You should check whether your medication has any temperature issues and whether you can store them suitably once you arrive and you may need a cool bag or insulated pack to carry them in.

Water

You should check whether you can consume the water in the country you are going to before you go so that you can be prepared. It is not just about drinking the water but also for brushing your teeth and preparing food.

You may need to take water purification or water disinfectant products to prevent you from getting ill.

Sun protection

As many have found in recent weeks, it can be very easy to get caught out and get sunburn so make sure that you respect the sun and wear an appropriate sun factor. Children should wear the highest factor and it is advisable to reapply frequently and use one that can be used in water.

 It is recommended that you stay out of direct sunlight between the hours of 11am and 3pm when the sun’s rays are at their strongest.

You should also cover up when possible and sit in the shade to prevent burning and heat exhaustion. UV protection swimming tops/shorts/suits are also very useful in protecting young children.

Wherever you go, we wish you a happy and safe holiday!