Planning a trip abroad is always an exciting time. However, making sure you are fully prepared with all the necessary vaccinations, medications, and documents is crucial for having a safe, healthy, and enjoyable journey. This checklist from your trusted Oxford travel clinic will help ensure you don’t overlook any important details when getting ready for your next international adventure.
Research Your Destination
- The first step is researching your destination country thoroughly. Check the latest travel advisories and warnings from reputable sources like the UK Foreign Office. Be aware of any political unrest, health risks like disease outbreaks, weather hazards, and other safety concerns. This will influence decisions about vaccinations, preventative medication, and insurance needs.
- Also, look into visa and passport requirements. Confirm your passport has at least 6 months validity after the return date. Obtain any necessary visas well in advance.
- Consider the climate and terrain of your destination. This will inform packing decisions – be sure to include appropriate clothing, footwear, and gear.
Get Recommended Vaccinations
- Travel vaccinations are an important part of preparing for your trip. Certain diseases are more prevalent overseas and vaccinations offer vital protection.
- Schedule an appointment with your local Oxford Travel Clinic several months before departure. Your local Travel Clinic in Oxford will advise which vaccinations are recommended or required for your destination. These may include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Rabies, Japanese Encephalitis, Cholera, and Meningitis vaccines to name a few.
- Some vaccinations require multiple doses over weeks or months to become fully effective. Don’t leave this to the last minute. Get vaccinated according to the prescribed timeline.
- Bring your vaccination record with you on your trip in case you need to provide proof.
- Use reputable websites to find the latest recommendations on vaccines based on the country you’re travelling including TravelHealthPro or FitForTravel.
- A general travel health advice leaflet is available for travellers to access to help prepare for their travels.
Book Accommodation
- Start researching accommodation options early. For a relaxing trip, book hotels or vacation rentals in advance. This ensures you have secured lodging, especially during peak seasons.
- For more flexibility, reserve the first few nights upon arrival. Then you can take time to find accommodations that best suit your preferences and budget for the rest of the trip.
- Confirm cancellation and modification policies in case your travel plans change. Pay deposits or prepayments as required.
Arrange Travel Insurance
- Comprehensive travel insurance is a must for overseas trips. Insurance protects you financially for unexpected cancellations, delays, medical emergencies, lost baggage, and other common travel mishaps.
- Review policy coverage including medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip interruption and cancellation. Ensure the plan fits your specific trip details and requirements.
- Purchase insurance within days of your initial trip payment for the most extensive coverage.
Pack Properly
- Create a detailed packing list of everything you’ll need several weeks in advance. Tick items off as you go to avoid last-minute shortages.
- Pack minimal valuables and jewellery. Bring copies of your passport/visas and leave the originals securely at home.
- Follow luggage weight limits. Keep carry-ons light with just essentials.
- Include adhesive bandages, over-the-counter medication, pain/fever relievers, antidiarrheal medication, antacids, antiseptic wipes, antibacterial gel, and other first-aid supplies.
Manage Finances
- Check current exchange rates and determine your budget. Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel dates/destination to avoid account suspension.
- Have local currency on hand upon arrival. ATMs overseas tend to have high fees.
- Bring a credit and debit card as backup payments. Make sure you know associated foreign transaction fees.
- Carry a small amount of cash in a money belt or hidden wallet for emergencies.
Stay Healthy and Safe
- Eat/drink safely – stick to bottled water and avoid raw/undercooked foods that may carry bacteria or contaminants your body isn’t accustomed to.
- Exercise regularly and get sufficient rest to stay healthy and avoid fatigue/jet lag.
- Protect yourself from insect bites and sun exposure. Pack insect repellent, sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing.
- Research emergency numbers and facilities at your destination in case you need medical care. Carry emergency contacts and cash in case of accidents or illness.
Preparing thoroughly takes time but is well worth it for a smooth, enjoyable, and safe trip abroad. Following this comprehensive checklist will help ensure you don’t overlook anything important. Listen to your trusted Oxford Travel Clinic team to get properly protected, equipped and ready to create unforgettable memories exploring new destinations.