So, you’re thinking about heading way out there, huh? To some remote spot. Good on ya. It’s an amazing experience, but lemme tell ya, I’ve learned a thing or two over the years about not coming back with, well, more than just good memories and photos. It’s mostly common sense, but sometimes common sense needs a bit of a plan, especially when you’re far from the comforts of home.
My Pre-Trip Ritual – Getting Ready for the Sticks
This part is super important for me. I don’t just throw things in a bag and hope for the best anymore. Nope, learned that lesson the hard way once or twice.
First thing I do, and I mean always, is I dig around online and in guidebooks about the specific area. I’m not just looking at pretty pictures. I want to know the nitty-gritty. What are the common bugs? What’s the water situation like? Are there specific diseases I need to be aware of? Is there even a doctor within a day’s journey? I try to find a few different sources because, you know, one website might miss something.
Then, it’s off to my doctor. Yeah, I know, it’s a bit of a drag. But I tell them exactly where I’m going and for how long. This usually means checking if my routine vaccinations are up to date, and often getting a specific shot or two for that region. Sometimes they’ll give me some pills, like anti-malarials or something for serious traveler’s diarrhea, just in case. It feels like a hassle at the time, but believe me, it’s way better than getting some nasty illness miles from anywhere.
And then there’s my medical kit. Oh boy, this thing is my little treasure chest. I don’t go overboard like I’m opening a pharmacy, but I have my essentials. Here’s what’s usually in mine:
- Some decent painkillers. Not just the mild stuff.
- Band-aids of all shapes and sizes, plus some good adhesive tape and gauze.
- Antiseptic wipes or liquid. Loads of ’em.
- Something for an upset stomach – you know, the usual suspects for when things go south.
- Any personal medication I need, and I always pack extra, just in case of delays.
- Tweezers and small scissors.
- Maybe some rehydration salts.
I tweak this list depending on where I’m headed and for how long. And I make sure everything is well within its expiry date. That’s key.
Oh, and one last thing before I go – insurance. Boring, I know. But I always double-check my health insurance to see what it covers if I’m overseas, especially in a remote place. Sometimes I get specific travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. Sounds dramatic, but if you break a leg in the middle of nowhere, you’ll be glad you sorted it.
Staying Healthy When I’m Actually Out There
Alright, so I’ve done my homework and I’ve landed. Now it’s about being smart day-to-day.
Food and water are top of my list for caution. My general rule is pretty simple: if it’s not cooked piping hot in front of me, if I can’t peel it myself (like a banana or orange), or if it’s not from a sealed bottle or can, I’m very, very wary. I’ve had bad experiences with dodgy water, so I stick to bottled water religiously, or I use a water filter or purification tablets I’ve brought with me. Salad? Often a no-go unless I’m super sure about the source.
Bugs. Ugh. Mosquitoes, ticks, flies – they can carry all sorts of nasty stuff. So, I use insect repellent, the strong stuff with DEET, especially around dawn and dusk when they’re most active. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants also helps a lot, even if it’s a bit warm. If I’m sleeping in a place that’s not well-screened, a mosquito net is a lifesaver. Literally, sometimes.
Basic hygiene goes a long way. Washing my hands frequently with soap and water is a big one. If soap and water aren’t available, I use hand sanitizer. Sounds so simple, but it really helps cut down the risk of picking up germs.
And I try to listen to my body. If I’m feeling unusually tired, or a bit off, I don’t just push through it. I take it easy, make sure I’m hydrated, and see if I feel better. Pushing yourself too hard when you’re not 100% in a challenging environment is just asking for trouble.
Even after I get back home, I kind of keep an eye on how I’m feeling for a couple of weeks. Some things can take a while to show up. If I feel unwell, I’ll go see my doctor and tell them where I’ve been.
So yeah, that’s pretty much my routine. It might sound like a lot, but most of it becomes second nature after a while. The point is to be prepared, not paranoid. Going to remote places is an incredible privilege, and taking these steps just helps make sure the memories are all good ones. Stay safe out there!
