The Essentials Guide to Summer Travel

Packing sunscreen for travel is an all-year necessity, but it is especially important during the summer months. According to the American Cancer Association, risks for damage to your skin are greater during the summer. The sun is stronger, days are longer, and people spend more time outdoors. Always make sure you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen for protection against ultraviolet rays and reapply regularly. With proper sunscreen application and staying in the shade when possible, you can ensure that you are safe from the sun this summer.

The unexpected can happen. That is why it is important to always keep a first-aid kit on hand when you travel for accidents, big and small. The CDC recommends a travel first-aid kit that included the following:

• 1% hydrocortisone cream
• Antibacterial or antifungal ointments
• Digital thermometer
• Oral rehydration salts
• Antiseptic wound cleaner
• Aloe gel for sunburns
• Insect bite anti-itch gel or cream
• Bandages
• Disposable gloves
• Cotton swabs (Q-Tips)
• Tweezers
• Eye drops

With these essentials, you will be prepared for any scrap, scratch, or bite. Plus, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are ready.

A travel medicine kit is another excellent way to stay healthy during your summer travels, in addition to a first-aid kit. Like a portable medicine cabinet, a travel medicine kit should include OTC medications that you may need on your trip. Medicines that you should consider adding to your kit include pain medicine (Ibuprofen and Tylenol), anti-nausea medicine, anti-diarrhea, or a decongestant. By making sure to pack these essentials, you can save yourself from having to hunt down a pharmacy in an unfamiliar place. 

Although washing your hands is the best way to prevent the spread of viruses and germs, hand sanitizer is still a great option during travel. Because places to wash your hands may be few and far between, having hand sanitizer on hand is a great way to prevent getting sick. 

Seeing your doctor before traveling and ensuring that you are up to date with all your vaccinations is an essential part of any travel plan. Being up to date on your vaccinations is a great way to ease your anxieties while traveling. Vaccines protect you and those around you from spreading disease. Plus, if you are traveling abroad, certain vaccines may be required for entry. Schedule an appointment with your doctor today about updating your vaccines using the SmartHealth doctor search tool. 

Not only can bug bites be annoying due to itching and swelling, but they can also carry diseases like Lyme disease or Malaria, according to the CDC. The best way to prevent bug bites is with Environmental Protection Agency-registered insect repellents that include DEET, picaridin, and even oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE). 

By packing these essentials for your trip, your summer vacation will leave you relaxed and not stressed. You will stay happy and healthy during whatever vacation you choose, from the beach to the campsite or a cityscape.