Travelling can be a daunting experience when you have a medical condition – you’re venturing into the unexpected. The truth is, though, we provide specialist cover for thousands of holidaymakers every year.
Ensuring your trip goes without any hassle need not be difficult; you just need to plan ahead properly. Preparation is the key wherever you are going, but it’s particularly important if you’re visiting somewhere with a hot climate, as there are a few things you will need to address. These hot climate travel tips can help you prepare more effectively and stay safe while away.
If you’re not used to the heat, you will need to watch out for the following:
This is when a person’s body is no longer able to cool itself (known as heatstroke) due to prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Body temperature becomes dangerously high and the effects can take hold in minutes. Symptoms include tiredness, dizziness, fainting, nausea and heavy sweating.
You can help prevent sunstroke by staying in shady areas, enjoying cold food and drinks, and avoiding extreme physical exertion.
You can also read the NHS advice on heat exhaustion and heatstroke for more information.
This happens when the body loses more fluid than it takes in, usually through sweating. When your body’s water content drops like this, it upsets the balance of minerals and affects the way you function.
Keeping dehydration at bay is simple. Drink water regularly throughout the day. Your intake will be higher than you are used to at home if the weather’s particularly hot, as you will likely sweat more. Following these hot climate travel tips can help reduce your risk.
Insects, like mosquitos, midges and fleas, pose a threat to everyone travelling in hot climates, but they are a particular concern for those with existing medical conditions because of the risk of infection.
Most bites and stings can be treated by washing the area with soap and water, and a cold compress helps reduce swelling. Tea tree oil is another common remedy because of its soothing and cleansing qualities. Prevention is difficult, but covering up will certainly help. You can also buy insect repellent from your local chemist.
Before you travel, it’s also worth checking the latest FCDO Foreign Travel Advicefor your destination. You will find the latest safety information, entry requirements and travel advice to help you prepare for your trip.
If you do decide to go somewhere hot this year, the general advice is to just be careful. Take all of the normal precautions – know where the closest pharmacy is, take the right medicine with you and arrange the appropriate travel insurance – and you will be just fine.
Before you travel, make sure you have enough medication for your trip, keep it in your hand luggage where possible, and check whether your destination has any specific health advice or vaccination recommendations.
Having the right travel insurance can help you travel with greater confidence, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition. Get a quote today and enjoy your holiday.
