4 tips for a healthy summer vacation

After years of lockdowns and travel restrictions, it’s no wonder that summer 2023 travel is expected to return to 2019 levels.

As you plan for that perfect vacation, it’s important to think about your health care needs. The last thing you want is for a health issue to sidetrack your plans.

With that in mind, here are 4 tips to consider when planning.

Tip #1: Know your options for care

Before you leave, learn about your options for health care while you’re away from home. Check with your health plan provider to see what coverage you have while traveling.

Knowing your options beforehand will give you peace of mind. If you need medical attention while traveling, you’ll be able to act quickly.

Kaiser Permanente offers its members a great resource at kp.org/travel or call 951-268-3900 to find out how to access care away from home anytime and anywhere.

Tip #2: Pack your health care ID card

Make sure to put your health care ID card in your wallet before heading out on your trip. In case of an emergency, you’ll be able to get the care you need more easily.

If you’re a Kaiser Permanente member, you can also put your digital ID card in your smartphone wallet. Simply download the Kaiser Permanente app, if you don’t have it already, to get started.

Tip #3: Preorder your medications

If you’re taking any prescription medications, make sure to order them before leaving for your trip. This will ensure that you have enough medicine to last throughout your travels.

Kaiser Permanente members can order up to 3 months’ worth of prescriptions and have them mailed directly to their home

“Keep your prescriptions easily accessible,” said Craig Robbins, MD, medical director for the Kaiser Permanente Care Management Institute’s Center for Clinical Information Services and Education. “If you travel by plane, keep your medications in your carry-on baggage, in case your checked bag goes missing.”

Tip #4: Research international travel requirements and recommendations

If you’re leaving the country, learn about the immunizations required for international travel. Consider also researching ways to avoid illnesses such as malaria, yellow fever, and typhoid fever, if you’re traveling to an area where these illnesses are common.

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or other illness as you near your travel date, you may want to rethink your plans. “You should consider rescheduling, or at least wear a mask, if you feel ill. You also may want to wear a mask when you’re in crowded places,” said Dr. Robbins. “Masks are no longer required in most places, but they still help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other illnesses.”

By following these tips, you can ensure that your health care needs are met while traveling. That means one less thing to worry about.

Taking time to plan will help you enjoy a safe and healthy summer vacation.