Being organised could make the difference between enjoying your holiday and illness ruining it for everyone.
• If you’re travelling within the European Economic Area (EEA) you can get a free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) which offers you access to treatment more like that you would expect at home, and reduced-cost medical treatment. You can apply or renew cards for each member of your family for free via www.ehic.org.uk.
• Think ahead and order enough of any medicines your family requires such as inhalers, to last you while you are away. Make sure you are up to date with the latest limits on what can go in hand luggage if you will be passing through airport security.
• Even without the risk of swine flu, one sure way to ruin a holiday is for one or all of the family to come down with a bug and have to stay in bed for the duration. Simply sitting on an aeroplane immediately exposes you to every sniffle carried by your fellow passengers, and airports are similarly great places to pick up a virus. Be extra vigilant about handwashing while travelling on trains, buses, at airports and so on – make sure you give yourselves the best chance of avoiding a badly timed cold.
• Once you’ve arrived at your destination, take simple precautions to avoid tummy upsets. If you’re concerned about water quality, stick to the bottled variety, and ask for other drinks to be served without ice. And don’t be tempted by street vendors, even if the locals are all munching happily. If you have concerns about the water don’t choose foods washed in the water like salads. If you have concerns about the water don’t choose foods washed in the water, like salads. If you can see the food being cooked it is a good sign, cooking kills bacteria.
• Most importantly, don’t let anyone in the family take silly risks. Pool safety, for example: you wouldn’t let your children play chase around a swimming pool at home because it can get too slippery, and as an adult you wouldn’t have a drink before going for a swim, would you?
• If the worst comes to the worst and you end up badly in trouble outside the EU, you’ll be glad of your travel insurance. Read the small print before you choose your policy to ensure that it covers any sports or activities you’re planning to try, and that the insurers will get you home without quibbling if you need major treatment.