THREE MONTHS BEFORE…
Depending on where you’re heading in the world, you and your husband-to-be may need to have vaccinations – from ten days before you travel for typhoid to up to three months for diphtheria. So don’t leave it to late to find out (easy to do when you have a wedding to plan!).
In some countries, vaccinations are mandatory. For instance, a certificate of vaccination for yellow fever may be needed for places such as Botswana, Egypt and Indonesia. For a full list click here.
For other destinations, vaccinations are recommended but not compulsory – although the clue’s in the word ‘recommended’! - so get medical advice in all cases, especially if you’re taking medication or are pregnant.
Don’t assume vaccinations you’ve had in the past are still effective – always check with your GP if a booster is needed.
ONE MONTH BEFORE…
Sort out your travel insurance. If you already have a year-round policy, check it’s valid for the regions you’re visiting, and covers any activities you’ve planned such as white-water rafting or diving. In the EU and some other European countries, such as Norway and Switzerland, you can receive free or subsidised healthcare with a European Health Insurance card (EHIC). Apply online here.
Anti-malarial medication is advised in many parts of the world. There are currently six different types on the market, depending on where you’re going, what you’re doing, and your personal circumstances.
For example, some regions are resistant to traditional such as chloroquine, so what worked for your friend on her honeymoon to the Indian subcontinent, may not be right if you’re going on safari to sub-Saharan Africa.
Depending on the drug, you’ll need to start taking it between three weeks and one day before your trip, so it pays to be well prepared. ALWAYS check with a doctor or pharmacist to make sure you have the right medication, are prepared for any side effects or interactions with other medications you’re on, and know how long to take it for. For more information on risk and prevention, click here.
TWO WEEKS BEFORE…
See your GP to make sure you have enough supplies of your usual medication, including the Pill if you take it. Carry it in your hand luggage, not just in the strip packs but in the original pharmacy box, so there is no confusion at immigration or if you need some more for whatever reason while you’re away. Keep a list of your medicine and your doctor’s name and contact details on a sheet of paper.
Some medicine may have restrictions on being taken abroad – check with your GP.
According to Netdoctor, it’s a good idea to have your GP write a letter explaining why you’re carrying any prescription medications, needles or syringes, in case of problems at customs.
ONE WEEK BEFORE…
Hit the chemist and stock up on over-the-counter essentials. If you’re prone to cystitis, this can often flare up on honeymoon, especially on beach holidays in hot climates, so take plenty of your usual remedy. The same goes for antihistamines if you react to stings and bites, an anti diarrhoea preparation and plenty of rehydration salts such as Boots Rehydration Treatment, £2.19 for 6 sachets.
Don’t forget condoms, if you use them, as you can’t always rely on the quality of brands you might find abroad.
A boy scout-style first-aid kit is probably not essential if you’re going to a four-star honeymoon resort, but it doesn’t hurt to take a few plasters, headache tablets and an antiseptic cream in your wash bag, just in case. ‘Lavender essential oil always comes in handy as you can apply it neat to skin,’ says medical herbalist Trudy Norris. ‘It’s useful for headaches, insect bites and stings, sun burn, spots, insomnia…’ And it smells good, too!
For the latest honeymoon ideas, check out the latest issue of You & Your Wedding, on sale 5th June
