What to do if you get sick before a trip?

Operation: Vacation Rescue – What to Do When Sickness Strikes Before Your Trip

You’ve meticulously planned. The itinerary is perfect. Your bags are packed. The only thing standing between you and that well-deserved vacation is… a nagging cough, a scratchy throat, or a full-blown fever. Getting sick right before a trip is the ultimate travel buzzkill, but don’t despair! With a little planning and swift action, you can navigate this pre-trip predicament and hopefully still salvage your getaway.

Step 1: Doctor, Doctor!

This is priority number one. Don’t self-diagnose based on Dr. Google. Schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. Explain your symptoms and emphasize your upcoming travel plans. Your doctor can accurately diagnose your illness, prescribe appropriate medication, and advise you on whether or not flying is safe for you and others.

Why is this so crucial? Ignoring your symptoms can lead to:

• Worsening of your condition: What starts as a mild cold could develop into something more serious, making your trip (if you still go) miserable.
• Spreading illness: You don’t want to be that person on the plane infecting everyone around you.
• Travel complications: Certain medical conditions can be exacerbated by air travel, potentially requiring medical assistance mid-flight.

Step 2: Assess the Damage – Can You Still Go?

Based on your doctor’s advice, you’ll need to make a tough decision: is your trip still viable? Consider the following:

• Severity of your illness: Are you contagious? Are you feeling well enough to enjoy your trip, or will you spend most of it in bed?
• Travel insurance: Review your policy. Does it cover trip cancellations due to illness? Understand the terms and conditions for filing a claim.
• Airline cancellation policies: Check your airline’s policy regarding changes or cancellations. Some airlines may offer flexible options, especially if you have a doctor’s note.
• Non-refundable bookings: Hotels, tours, and other pre-booked activities may have strict cancellation policies. Contact them to see if you can reschedule or obtain a partial refund.

Step 3: Rescheduling vs. Cancellation

If your doctor advises against traveling, or if you simply don’t feel up to it, explore rescheduling options first. Often, airlines and hotels are more accommodating with rescheduling than full cancellations.

If cancellation is unavoidable:

• Gather all necessary documentation: Doctor’s note, booking confirmations, insurance policy details.
• Contact all relevant parties: Airline, hotel, tour operators, etc.
• Be polite and persistent: Explain your situation clearly and calmly.

Step 4: If Travel is Unavoidable (and Doctor Approved!)

Sometimes, rescheduling isn’t possible, and your doctor has given you the all-clear (with precautions, of course). In this scenario, prioritize the health and well-being of your fellow travelers:

• Practice impeccable hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, use hand sanitizer liberally, and avoid touching your face.
• Consider wearing a mask: Especially in crowded environments like airports and airplanes.
• Early boarding: If possible, request early boarding to minimize your time in crowded boarding areas. This allows you to get settled and potentially avoid close contact with other passengers.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your body fight off illness.
• Pack a personal “sick kit”: Include pain relievers, decongestants, cough drops, tissues, and any other medications your doctor prescribed.
• Be mindful of personal space: Try to maintain a reasonable distance from other passengers whenever possible.
• Notify the flight crew if you feel worse: They can provide assistance and potentially isolate you from other passengers if necessary.

The Takeaway:

Getting sick before a trip is a major disappointment, but by taking swift and responsible action, you can minimize the damage and hopefully salvage some of your vacation. Remember to prioritize your health, be considerate of others, and navigate the situation with a calm and proactive approach. A little planning and flexibility can go a long way in turning a pre-trip disaster into a manageable inconvenience.