Traveling this summer for a family vacation or long weekend? No matter where your summer travel plans are taking you, these tips can help keep you and your family safe.
Summer safety sense
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- Limit time outdoors between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., which is when the sun’s ultraviolet rays are most intense. This applies to overcast days too. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply it periodically, especially if you’re sweating or having fun in the water. This applies to overcast days too! (Yes, you read that twice.)
- Drink lots of fluids. Staying hydrated is critical to maintaining energy and avoiding the effects of summer heat. Carry a water bottle anywhere and anytime you can. You can even find collapsible water bottles that are perfect for traveling this summer. If you don’t like the taste of water, try adding lemon juice, a sprig of mint, freshly sliced lemon, orange, lime or cucumber.
- Do you like to get out into nature? Be sure to protect yourself from mosquitoes and ticks, which can carry diseases such as the Zika virus and Lyme disease. Check out these insect repellents recommended by Consumer Reports. Always check yourself and family members for ticks after spending time in grassy and wooded areas.
Traveling with medications
- If your summer travel involves taking a road trip for a few days, you can use a pill organizer to save space. Be sure to organize a couple extra days’ worth just in case you have to extend your trip or accidentally lose or drop a pill or two.
- But if you’re flying, going international or planning to be away from home more than a week, pack your prescription bottles or printed prescriptions. In case of an emergency, you may be able to get some medications refilled at a different pharmacy.
One more tip: While traveling this summer, keep Teladoc close by; download our mobile app and reach out to a Teladoc doctor online or by app anywhere you are.1,2
Our doctors can diagnose and recommend treatments for a wide range of common summer travel issues, from sun-related conditions to insect stings, skin rashes and seasonal allergies.
Updated June 28, 2021
1Accessibility may vary depending on location.
2Services not available outside the United States.
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