Packing for a healthy honeymoon
The travel protection that belongs in your carry-on.
- Medical insurance vs. trip insurance
- Going on a trip? There are two ways to cover the “what if’s.” Your health plan — which generally takes care of urgent medical costs when you are outside your local network. And trip insurance — which covers travel delays, lost luggage and other pesky honeymoon woes.
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One of the best parts of getting married is the honeymoon. Long gone are the daunting decisions that led up to the big day: the food, the flowers, the favors. But you still need to consider what travel protection to take with you — besides a bottle of sunscreen. These tips can help you have the healthy, happy honeymoon you’ve always wanted.
Check your health plan
If your trip is out of the state or country, check in with your benefits carrier first. They can tell you what type of coverage you will have away from home. And they can also help you use it the right way, if you need it. Good questions to ask:
- What do I pay if I need to go to the hospital?
- How do I get a prescription if I run out?
- How does my plan change when I travel out of the country?
- Do I need to get permission before I get any services?
Try trip insurance
This policy can help you cut through yards of red tape: travel delays, lost luggage, rental car dents and dings and more. It can also supplement your health coverage if you get sick or hurt at home or abroad.
Picture this: Instead of catching a scuba lesson, you catch a bad case of “tummy troubles.” Trip insurance can help you get the care you need to get back in action.
If your plan does cover you when you’re away from home, it still makes sense to add it. It’s a great way to supplement your health plan. And it doesn’t cost a lot. Ask your travel agent for the policy that best fits you and your travel plans.
Get your shots
A hospital is no place to spend a honeymoon! So make sure you get the right shots before you jet away. Many diseases we don’t even think about in the U.S. are a big threat in other countries. To get up to speed, visit the travel health section of the CDC website.
Just remember – it can take up to six weeks for your immunization to give you full protection. So when you book your honeymoon, book a visit to the doctor, too.
Kick back and relax
From jet lag to Customs to cramped quarters, even the most love struck newlyweds can get a little cranky. But now that you’ve touched down on “romantic soil,” it’s time to give your body a break. Here’s how to treat it right:
- Get plenty of rest.
- Take it slow the first few days of your trip.
- Drink lots of water (bottled is best).
- Stay away from salads, fruits, raw fish and undercooked meat in exotic spots.
A happy honeymoon is a healthy one. So don’t forget to pack these essentials!
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