Photo by Caner Demiroğlu: https://www.pexels.com/photo/hand-with-a-ring-on-a-steering-car-wheel-15895759/
72% of Americans said they’re feeling positive about their travel plans in the year ahead, according to one study of 1,500 TripIt users. With 41% looking forward to the trips they have planned, the study also revealed that 18% are not concerned about getting sick during their trip. For those who are planning to take the RV out on an extended road trip this spring or summer, however, being prepared can make a major difference in your time on the road should something unexpected — like food poisoning — occur. From why you should plan ahead to what you should pack, here’s just a brief overview to help you prepare.
The advantages of planning ahead
Researching routes and attractions to visit along the way are a staple of planning a good road trip. However, it’s also important to study up on various other aspects in regard to health and safety. In addition to taking general safety precautions such as keeping the RV well maintained, having an alternate driver on board, driving safely, etc., doing your research and staying updated on the weather for the areas you’ll be driving through is another great way to prepare. For example, understanding the weather beforehand will give you a heads up should you need to park for the night (thus allowing you to make arrangements or park reservations in advance).
Doing your research in regards to the activities you plan on partaking in can also make a major difference when it comes to being prepared for your trip. For instance, if you’re planning to try out a variety of restaurants while on the road, it’s always worthwhile to do your research by looking into reviews beforehand. Not only will this give you a good sense as to the quality of the food itself, but it will help give you an understanding as to the cleanliness of the establishment as well, and can help avoid an unpleasant experience while on the road. For example, reviews that contain mentions of pest sightings (cockroaches, for example), can indicate that the establishment isn’t up to par regarding the regulations surrounding pest control — not to mention the health risks that are associated with pests.
When planning in advance, looking into travel insurance plans for your road trip can be a great way to prepare, even if your road trip is within the U.S. While your health insurance plan will likely cover medical expenses if you get injured or get sick on a domestic, U.S. vacation, there are a few benefits worth looking into. According to one Forbes article that highlights various benefits of travel insurance for domestic trips, in the event of a medical emergency, your travel insurance company’s emergency assistance hotline can help to make referrals to a clinic, hospital, or doctor for care. Travel insurance can also help should you need medical evacuation as well, and can also be helpful in protecting the prepaid/non-refundable parts of your trip. Whether you’re renting an RV or you want to prepare for the unexpected in regard to activities like hiking, doing your research on policies and plans is a great way to prepare for an extended trip.
Photo by Dima Mukhin on Unsplash
What to pack
In addition to clothes and toiletries, packing medical supplies is a must for any road trip, regardless of your destination. In addition to prescription medications and medical supplies, packing over-the-counter medicines can be well worthwhile in the event of sickness. Antidiarrheals, antacids, decongestant, motion sickness medicines, and pain and fever medication are just a few items worth packing. Ensuring that you bring along the right documents can also make for a smoother trip, from emergency phone numbers to documents you may need should you have to go to the hospital. “Be sure to have access to health insurance-related documentation that you might need while traveling,” Dr. Susan O’Sullivan, the Director of Clinical Experience at LetsGetChecked tells Apartment Therapy.
Packing a first aid kit is another must-have when looking to stay safe on the road. Whether you use the supplies or not, having them present on the RV can bring great peace of mind in knowing you’re well prepared. From the basic supplies that include bandages, tweezers, antiseptic wash, instant cold packs, a thermometer, insect sting/bite treatment, etc., to supplies that are specific to your family (such as extra diabetic supplies, an EpiPen, etc.), having such items on hand can make a significant difference when dealing with ailments on the road.
Getting sick on the road
When it comes to getting sick while traveling, knowing how to handle the situation can help. Motion sickness is just one common ailment that many experience while out on the road, and can easily be addressed. According to one University of Virginia Health article, there are a variety of helpful ways to address motion sickness, from over-the-counter motion sickness medicines to avoiding spicy, greasy, and/or fatty foods, drinking ginger ale, sitting in the front seat and focusing on the horizon, and avoiding activities like watching a movie or reading. Eating a bland snack every couple of hours can also help in order to keep your stomach from feeling empty, according to the article. It’s important to note that while small things (like a bout of motion sickness or a small wound) can likely be addressed within the comfort of your RV, the CDC stresses the importance of seeking medical attention right away if you or a travel companion gets an injury or sickness that can’t be helped with basic first aid or an over-the-counter medicine.
Getting out on the open road for an extended trip can make for a great time, though being prepared can make a major difference when it comes to health and safety. From doing a considerable amount of research beforehand to knowing what to pack — and how to navigate sickness when on the road, you’re sure to have a smoother trip.