Traveling can be a blast. Whether it’s a family vacation, spa retreat, golf weekend, or business conference, a trip offers a change of scenery and respite from the daily grind. But – it also removes you from your everyday element.
As creatures of habit, or at least routine, we can easily take for granted quick access to resources we rely on daily. It’ll be important to bring them to the forefront of your mind, so you’re not caught unprepared in case of an emergency. Living with a medical condition or chronic illness? This checklist is even more important for you.
Here are 5 recommended steps to boost your peace of mind before jetting off.
1. Inform Your Support System
Tell your doctor, relatives and trusted friends that you’ll be out of town. Give them your flight information, or if you’re driving, the route you’ll be taking. Send them the names, addresses, and phone numbers of the hotels you’ll be visiting, along with your dates of stay. While you’re away, periodically call or text folks back home to let them know you’re getting around safely.
2. Pack Enough Medicine and Supplies
Double check your supply of prescription doses to make sure you’ve got enough while you’re away. Bring extra if you can, but don’t bring too much more than you need, should the supply get lost or ruined. Keep a paper copy of your prescription (Rx) numbers and the phone number of your pharmacy. Pack medicines in your carry-on should you need access during your travels.
Don’t forget over-the-counter medicines like pain relievers, ointments and dietary supplements, like fiber or probiotics.
3. Take Note of Resources at Your Destination…
Before leaving home, do an internet search for hospitals, pharmacies and outpatient clinics in and around your destination. Compile them in a list, with addresses and emergency / 24-hour phone numbers, print a copy for yourself, and send copies to your support system. Hotels may be equipped with life-saving devices like defibrillators, but don’t count on it.
4. …Including Emergency Phone Numbers
Do your research and find out the municipal emergency phone numbers at your destination. According to 911.gov, “…the best option to obtain emergency assistance in a different state, county or city is to dial the 10-digit phone number for law enforcement in the community where assistance is needed.” This is especially important if you’re traveling internationally.
5. Make Sure Your Phone Will Work
Contact your mobile phone carrier to check on both voice and data coverage at your destination. Some remote areas, or areas with mountainous terrain, may not have the strongest or most reliable cellular service. If you’ll be in one of those areas, make sure you become familiar with using hotel phones. Oh, and bring an extra charger, and if needed, know how to set your phone to “roaming” mode.
So get out there, see the sights and have fun. And remember to make sure you keep your health and well-being a priority!
Did you like this post? Stay up to date on important information from Curus. Sign up to receive our newsletter.
