Winter might feel cold and dark in the UK, but it is one of the most popular times of year for people to escape the weather and head somewhere brighter. Whether you are planning a Christmas break, a long awaited winter holiday, or a trip to see family abroad, the idea of swapping grey skies for sunshine is always appealing.
Before you get lost in the excitement of packing, airport outfits, or planning your itinerary, it is worth taking a moment to think about your health. Winter travel often involves long flights, busy airports, different climates, and exposure to illnesses that are not common at home. Making sure you have the right travel vaccines is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself and avoid problems while you are away.
Village Pharmacy can help guide you through what you might need, depending on where you are going and what type of trip you are planning.
Why winter travel needs a little extra preparation
Travelling in winter usually means your body is already dealing with colder temperatures, dry indoor air, and a drop in natural immunity. Add in long flights, jet lag, disrupted routines, and new environments, and your immune system can feel the strain.
Airports and planes are full of people from all over the world, which increases the chance of catching or spreading illness. Different countries also have different health risks, especially tropical or developing regions where certain diseases are more common.
Getting the right vaccinations before you travel reduces these risks and helps you enjoy your trip without health worries.
Understanding what vaccines you might need
Your vaccine requirements depend entirely on where you are going, how long you are staying, and what activities you have planned. Some destinations require proof of certain vaccinations to enter the country, while others simply recommend them to keep you safe.
Routine vaccinations
Before anything else, it is important to make sure your standard UK vaccinations are up to date. These include protection against illnesses such as tetanus and measles. Many travellers are surprised to find they are overdue for boosters they had years ago.
Destination specific vaccines
Some areas of the world carry higher risks for diseases that are not present in the UK. Common travel vaccines protect against things such as typhoid, hepatitis A, and other infections found in certain regions.
If you are visiting rural areas, working abroad, helping in community projects, or staying for an extended period, you may need additional protection.
Entry requirements
A few countries require proof of vaccination before they let you in. This often applies to yellow fever in certain parts of Africa and South America. Travellers must show their yellow fever certificate on arrival, so it is important to check this early.
Why timing matters
Travel vaccines are not something you should leave to the last minute. Many of them need to be given at least two weeks before you travel so your body has time to build protection. Some require more than one dose over a set period.
Planning ahead saves stress and ensures you are fully protected before your trip. If your holiday has come up suddenly, you can still get advice and see what can be done in the time you have left.
Protecting your health on long flights
Winter travel often means long flights, multiple connections, and a lot of time spent sitting. These things can affect your circulation, hydration, and general comfort.
Here are a few small habits that help:
- Drink water regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty
- Avoid drinking too much alcohol on the flight
- Move your legs and ankles every so often
- Take short walks down the aisle when possible
- Use moisturiser or lip balm to prevent dryness
- Try to rest, especially on overnight flights
Long flights can also increase the risk of catching coughs and colds. Keeping your hands clean and avoiding touching your face helps reduce this risk.
Staying healthy while abroad
Once you arrive, it is worth being mindful of a few things that help keep you well during your trip.
Be careful with food and drink
Food hygiene varies from country to country. Eating fresh, well cooked food and drinking clean or bottled water helps you avoid stomach upsets.
Protect yourself from insects
In tropical or humid destinations, insect bites can spread certain illnesses. Using repellent, wearing long clothing in the evening, and sleeping under nets where needed all help reduce the risk.
Look after your skin
Hot sun, strong air conditioning, or dry climates can affect your skin more than you expect. Using sun protection and staying hydrated keeps your skin comfortable and prevents irritation.
Take a basic medical kit
A few essentials can save you time and hassle abroad. Simple items like pain relief, plasters, rehydration salts, and antibacterial gel are always useful on holiday.
Medication for your trip
If you take regular medication, make sure you have enough to last your entire trip, including a few extra days in case of delays. Always keep medicines in their original packaging and pack them in your hand luggage rather than your checked suitcase.
It is also worth carrying a printed list of your medicines, just in case you need to replace anything overseas. Some countries have different names for common medicines, so having a record helps avoid confusion.
Travel insurance and medical cover
Winter is a busy travel season, and travel insurance is something people sometimes leave until the last minute. It is essential though, especially if you are going somewhere far from home.
Look for a policy that covers:
- Medical treatment
- Emergency transport
- Lost luggage
- Cancellations
- Pre existing conditions
It is always better to have the right cover and never need it than to face problems abroad without support.
If you’re travelling this winter…
Winter holidays are exciting and well deserved, and a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your trip smooth and enjoyable. Making sure your travel vaccines are sorted, packing the right essentials, and planning ahead all help you stay healthy while you are away.
Whenever you are planning your next winter getaway, just take a moment to think about what your health needs might be. A bit of advice and the right protection before you travel can make all the difference while you are enjoying your time abroad.
