Avoid common health slip-ups with this simple checklist
Planning a trip overseas is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Between booking flights, packing bags, sorting travel money and chasing down visas, it’s easy to miss a few important health essentials.
Every year, travellers from Christchurch head off without realising they’ve skipped something that could seriously affect their trip or their health.
This travel health checklist covers the five most common things people forget before flying, and how you can avoid them.
1. Not checking routine vaccines are up to date
Most travellers only think about vaccines needed for their destination. But many forget that some routine vaccinations also need to be current. These include tetanus, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), whooping cough, and the flu.
Even if you’re not going somewhere tropical, being overdue for these can leave you exposed. Diseases still travel, even if you’re not.
Tip: A quick check-in at your local travel clinic will let you know what’s missing.
2. Underestimating jet lag and motion sickness
Long flights can take a real toll on your body. Jet lag, dehydration and motion sickness can make your first few days away pretty uncomfortable.
A few easy steps can help:
Start shifting your sleep schedule before you fly.
Drink plenty of water, and go easy on alcohol and coffee.
Bring motion sickness tablets or sea bands if you’re prone to nausea.
Tip: Your pharmacist can recommend travel-friendly remedies that suit your needs.
3. Buying travel insurance but not reading it properly
Adding insurance to your flight booking feels like the smart move, but basic policies often fall short. Especially when it comes to medical emergencies or trip disruptions.
Before you go:
Check if your policy includes overseas medical treatment and hospital stays.
Declare any pre-existing conditions.
Make sure you’re covered for remote areas or emergency evacuations.
Tip: A five-minute review now can save thousands if something goes wrong.
4. Forgetting to pack a proper first aid kit
A travel first aid kit is one of those things you don’t think about until you really need it. Whether it’s a blister, a bite, or a dodgy street meal, being prepared makes a big difference.
Include:
Plasters, antiseptic wipes and pain relief
Rehydration salts and anti-diarrhoea tablets
Allergy and motion sickness medication
Insect repellent and bite cream
Any personal prescriptions in original packaging
Tip: You can buy a pre-packed kit, but building one for your destination is even better.
5. Skipping destination-specific vaccines
Each region carries different health risks. Many Christchurch travellers visit Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands or Africa. Each of these areas has its own recommended vaccines.
Here are just a few examples:
Southeast Asia: Typhoid, Hepatitis A & B, Japanese Encephalitis, Rabies (for extended or rural travel)
South America: Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Rabies (depending on destination and activities)
Africa: Yellow Fever, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Rabies, and Malaria prevention
Tip: Book a pre-travel health consult to get tailored advice based on your trip plans.
Final Check: Ready to travel with confidence?
Small health oversights can ruin a great trip. Taking a few minutes to check your travel health needs before you go can make all the difference once you arrive.
At Sumner Pharmacy Travel Clinic, we offer:
Personalised vaccine plans
Destination-specific advice
Same-week appointments right here in Christchurch
Book your appointment now and travel with confidence, knowing your health is covered.
