Essential Guide: 10 Tips to Preventing and Managing Illness While Traveling Abroad

Having both lived and traveled abroad, my husband and I thought we were well-prepared for our trip to Ecuador. We got our vaccines, took malaria medications, and packed a variety of pills to handle just about any health issue that might arise. For the first few days, everything went smoothly, and we felt confident that this trip would be another great adventure.

But on day four, things took a turn. After a long day that involved a canoe ride, a jeep journey, and hours on a bus, we finally arrived, exhausted, at our hotel. We were in a city we didn’t know well and wanted to settle in before nightfall, so we headed out to find dinner.

Not long after sitting down at a small diner, my husband suddenly announced that he was going to be sick. He rushed outside, but the smell of trash and exhaust from a passing bus was all it took—right there on the sidewalk, he gave the local Ecuadorian crowd quite the show.

We quickly headed back to the hotel in the sweltering heat. He couldn’t keep anything down and was becoming more miserable by the minute. While we had brought diarrhea medication, we hadn’t thought to pack anything for nausea. I kept thinking, surely, this will pass soon. But it didn’t.

As night fell, despite our resolve not to venture out after dark, it became clear that he needed help. He was in bad shape. I went down to the hotel clerk, hoping for some guidance. Unfortunately, they didn’t have any medications on hand but told me there was a pharmacy on the corner. I mentioned that I didn’t feel safe walking alone at night, but the clerk reassured me the city was safe and even offered to watch me from the hotel as I made my way there and back.

Grateful for his help, I hurried to the pharmacy. Pharmacies in Ecuador work a bit differently than in the U.S.—you explain your symptoms, and they give you what you need. After speaking with the woman behind the counter, she handed me several pills and some electrolytes (something we hadn’t thought to bring but were definitely going to need). Thankfully, the medicine did the trick. By the next morning, my husband was feeling like himself again.

This experience was a stark reminder of how quickly an exciting adventure can turn into a stressful ordeal when illness strikes abroad. Being prepared for unexpected health issues can make all the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major emergency.

Checklist for Dealing with Illness During International Travel

If you find yourself sick while traveling abroad, don’t panic. Follow this comprehensive checklist to ensure you're well-prepared and able to get the help you need.

1. Check Required Vaccinations/Medications

Depending on where you’re going, you may be required to show proof of receiving certain vaccinations ahead of time. Additionally, if you are going somewhere tropical, you may need medications to prevent certain diseases like malaria, which are pills that need to be taken several days before you arrive.

Look for places like Passport Health or search for a Travel Clinic near you to get the important details.

2. Get Travel Insurance Before You Leave

Travel insurance is essential for covering unexpected medical expenses while abroad. Many policies cover doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medication, and emergency evacuation. Here’s what to consider when choosing travel insurance:

Medical Coverage: Ensure the policy covers medical expenses, including visits to doctors and hospitals, and that it includes emergency evacuations and repatriation if needed.
Pre-existing Conditions: If you have a pre-existing condition, make sure it’s covered by the policy, as not all insurers offer this option.
COVID-19 Coverage: With ongoing concerns about the pandemic, choose a plan that covers COVID-19-related illness and quarantine expenses.

Always carry a printed and digital copy of your insurance policy, along with your provider's contact information, to expedite claims.

3. Pack a Travel-Sized First-Aid Kit

A well-stocked travel-sized first-aid kit can save you from minor illnesses and discomforts during your trip. Here’s what to include:

Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
Anti-diarrheal medication (like loperamide)
Antihistamines (for allergies)
Motion sickness tablets / aids
Antacids
Electrolytes
Bandages and antiseptic wipes
Tweezers and small scissors
Prescription medications (carry extra doses)
Rehydration salts
Hand sanitizer and masks

It’s important to pack any necessary prescription medications in your carry-on, along with a note from your doctor listing your medical conditions and medications in case customs or airport security asks for verification.

4. Know How to Find a Reputable Doctor Abroad

Finding a trustworthy doctor in a foreign country can be intimidating, especially if you don’t speak the local language. Use these resources to locate reputable healthcare providers:

Embassy Recommendations: Contact your country’s embassy or consulate for a list of recommended doctors, clinics, or hospitals that cater to travelers.
Travel Insurance Provider: Many travel insurance companies provide lists of pre-vetted doctors and hospitals, or can direct you to a reliable healthcare facility.
Medical Assistance Apps: Use apps like Air Doctor, GeoBlue, or Travel Doctor to find nearby doctors and healthcare providers. These apps can help you locate English-speaking doctors, book appointments, and sometimes even arrange telemedicine consultations.
Hotel Assistance: Ask your hotel staff for recommendations on local doctors or nearby clinics. Many hotels have partnerships with local medical providers.

5. Understand the Local Healthcare System

It’s important to have a basic understanding of the local healthcare system before you need it. Here's what to research ahead of time:

Private vs. Public Healthcare: Some countries have excellent public healthcare systems, while others may require you to seek private care to get timely and effective treatment. Research which option will provide better care during your stay.
Accepted Payment Methods: In many countries, hospitals and doctors require immediate payment. Some may not accept insurance directly, so be prepared to pay out of pocket and file a claim with your travel insurance later.
Pharmacy Protocols: Know how pharmacies work in the country you’re visiting. In many places, pharmacists can provide medications and advice without a doctor’s visit, but the rules on what you can obtain over-the-counter vary widely by country.

6. Locate Nearby Pharmacies

If you’re feeling unwell, finding a nearby pharmacy can provide quick relief for common issues like headaches, colds, or upset stomachs. Many countries have pharmacies that are well-equipped to handle minor ailments. Here’s how to find one:

Google Maps: Simply searching for "pharmacy" on Google Maps can help locate nearby options.
Medical Apps: Apps like GoodRx or Pharmacy Near Me can help you find pharmacies, compare medication prices, and locate pharmacies that speak your language.
Ask Locals: If you’re staying at a hotel or an Airbnb, ask the staff or host where the nearest pharmacy is located. They may also know which one has English-speaking staff.

7. Utilize Telemedicine for Minor Illnesses

If you’re experiencing mild symptoms, you may be able to avoid a visit to a doctor’s office by using telemedicine. Many travel insurance policies now include access to telemedicine services. You can use these services to consult with a doctor online, get advice, and even receive prescriptions electronically in some countries. Some of the best telemedicine apps for international travelers include:

Teladoc: Provides virtual healthcare services globally, including consultations and prescription refills.
Doctor On Demand: Available in multiple countries and offers a range of medical consultations, including mental health support.
Global Health: Connects you with a network of doctors worldwide and helps you find healthcare providers abroad.

8. Stay Hydrated and Get Plenty of Rest

It sounds simple, but staying hydrated and resting are crucial to recovering from illness. Long flights, time zone changes, and new environments can take a toll on your immune system, making it easier to get sick. Drink bottled water, especially in countries where tap water isn’t safe to drink, and try to get a full night’s sleep to support your body’s recovery.

9. Know Your Emergency Numbers

Before you travel, research the local emergency numbers in the countries you’re visiting. These numbers may vary for medical emergencies, fire, and police. Having this information handy can save precious time in case of a severe illness or accident.

10. Use Language Translation Apps

If you don’t speak the local language, communication can be challenging when seeking medical help. Language translation apps like Google Translate or iTranslate can help bridge the communication gap. These apps often have features that allow you to translate text or speech into another language, ensuring that you can explain your symptoms or ask questions to medical professionals.

Getting sick while traveling abroad can be an unpleasant experience, but with the right preparation, you can navigate it smoothly. Start by securing comprehensive travel insurance, packing a well-thought-out first-aid kit, and using technology to find doctors and pharmacies when needed. Taking these steps will help ensure your health is well-protected, so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

Now that you know how to prevent illness, check out our blog on how to prep the night before your trip for stress-free travel.

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