The Hospitalist’s Guide to Staying Out of the Hospital on Vacation




The Hospitalist’s Guide to Staying Out of the Hospital on Vacation By Lisa, Certified Travel Advisor & Hospitalist

Nothing ruins a dream getaway like an unexpected trip to the ER. As both a hospitalist and a travel expert, I’ve seen what can go wrong—and more importantly, how to prevent it. Here are my best insider tips for staying healthy and safe while you explore the world.

✈️ 1. Pre-Trip Prep: Your Medical To-Do List

  • Schedule a check-up 4–6 weeks before international trips

  • Request extra prescriptions in advance

  • Pack a copy of your medical summary (diagnoses, allergies, meds, devices)

  • Know your numbers: BP, glucose, weight

  • Carry your medication list in both physical and digital form

  • Review CDC travel health notices and vaccines needed for your destination

  • Check if your destination requires medication documentation or import permits

💊 2. Pack Smart: Your DIY Travel Health Kit

  • Daily meds in original bottles

  • Cold packs or Frio pouches for insulin or GLP-1 storage

  • Antidiarrheals, anti-nausea meds, antihistamines, motion sickness bands

  • First-aid basics (bandages, ointment, thermometer)

  • Compression socks for long travel days

  • Spare prescriptions and backup doses

Pro tip: Always keep meds in your carry-on. Store a copy of your prescriptions in a cloud folder or email them to yourself in case of loss.

🌎 3. Know Where to Get Help—Before You Need It

  • Register with STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program)

  • Choose cruises/resorts with on-site or nearby medical care

  • Download telemedicine apps like Teladoc, Air Doctor, or GeoBlue

  • Consider Global Rescue or MedJet for serious conditions

  • Learn how to dial emergency services in your destination country

🚢 4. Cruising with Conditions: What to Know Cruises are accessible and comfortable for travelers with health concerns. Here's how to stay safe and enjoy every port:

  • Disclose medical needs early when booking: accessible cabins, sharps containers, refrigeration needs, oxygen, or mobility equipment

  • Bring enough medication for the entire cruise + 3 extra days, in original labeled containers

  • Inform the ship's medical center of your condition at embarkation (optional but encouraged)

  • Time zones and meds: Plan adjustments with your provider, especially for insulin or cardiac meds

  • Dialysis at sea is possible on select ships—ask about onboard or portside availability

  • In-cabin fridges: Most cruise lines provide refrigeration for medications on request (note: these are often mini-bars, not medical-grade, so use a Frio bag or cold pack for added protection)

  • Liquid medication policy: Declare at embarkation; some cruise lines require advance notice and documentation for large volumes

  • Medical centers onboard are equipped for urgent care; staff may stabilize and disembark you for serious issues, so travel insurance is a must

  • Sharps disposal: Most lines provide sharps containers if requested ahead of time

  • Mobility and excursion planning: Ask about wheelchair-friendly ports and accessible shore excursions

Cruise Line Tip: Notify them at least 30 days before sailing for any special medical accommodations. Each line has a medical request form you can submit through your advisor.

🍽️ 5. Eat, Drink & Move... Wisely Vacation food is part of the fun, but your body still needs balance—especially with chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or GI issues.

  • Stick to regular eating times to stabilize blood sugar and digestion

  • Enjoy indulgences in moderation, balance with fiber and protein

  • Request low-sodium or sauce-on-the-side meals

  • Use MyFitnessPal or a food diary to track meals if managing a condition

  • Hydrate frequently—ships and flights dry you out

  • Limit alcohol; it can impact hydration, interact with medications, and impair judgment

  • Get moving daily: walk the deck, take the stairs, join light onboard fitness like stretching, yoga, or aqua aerobics

  • Mind your gut: bring probiotics, stick to bottled water in foreign ports, and go easy on raw or buffet foods if you’re immunocompromised

  • For diabetics: Watch hidden sugars in tropical cocktails, desserts, and sauces

  • Avoid skipping meals if you're on medication that affects glucose or blood pressure

🚒 6. Travel Insurance: Your Safety Net Choose coverage that includes:

  • Pre-existing conditions

  • Emergency evacuation

  • Hospital stays and trip interruption

  • Medication replacement or prescription coverage while abroad

As your travel advisor, I help you pick a plan that truly protects you.

❤️ Final Thought: Healthy Travel is Happy Travel With the right support and a few smart moves, you can explore the world safely and confidently—even with medical concerns. Let Bracco Cruise & Travel help you plan seamless, wellness-first adventures.

Ready to cruise with confidence? Let’s talk today!




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