I’ve always been a pretty healthy person so when someone suggested I get a check up before I leave, I shrugged it off. I hadn’t been to see a general practitioner in years and only went then because I moved cities and needed to get a local doctor – just in case. It is a good idea – just in case there is some concern; getting things looked at and taken care without the worry while abroad is proactive planning. Insurance companies will also want to know if you went to get a physical before you left the country as a factor in providing coverage. Luckily, doc gave me the green light and I’m fit for travel.

Speaking of insurance, do you have travel insurance? If so, what does it cover? Personally, I am covered for the first sixty days abroad without returning to Canada. If I want to extend that coverage I will need to purchase it for the next eleven months. For the mountain climbs up Elbrus and Everest Base Camp it is recommended I obtain the Adventure Sport package (Alpine Club of Canada) which covers mountaineering up to 6000m. All worthy purchases as there is no cost too great for peace of mind. Or, I could opt not to travel and we know that’s not going to happen.

Proactive planning and prevention you ask? Vaccines and prescriptions are both necessary and common oversights. Travel clinics and/or doctors will charge you a consultation fee for their comprehensive services but it is highly recommended. The visit will map out the countries you plan on visiting, explain the current areas of health concerns, and suggest vaccines to prevent sickness. You don’t need to get them all! Use your best judgement and personal comfort level. Remember, doctors need to make money too.

My personal list of vaccines are: TWINRIX (Hep A and B – needs six months to complete three doses – plan early!), Typhoid, Yellow Fever, and malaria. If you have every vaccine you need, you can skip the consultation fee of a travel medical professional and either ask your family doctor or go to a walk in clinic for any prescriptions you may need. For the altitude on my journey, I have gathered an ample supply of Diamox which reduces the symptoms of altitude sickness. Considering I am out of the country for over a year, I figured more is better than running out and being left stranded with a throbbing head or worse. Proactive planning and prevention.

Once again, start your planning early and research (travel.gc.ca for Canadian citizens will give you up to date required, recommended, and optional vaccines to consider) the vaccines and medications you may need to obtain before you embark on your unforgettable journey. Better to be safe and healthy than heading home after a couple weeks with a preventative illness.