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5 ways to prep for summer travel.

how travelers are preparing for worry-free vacations.

Everyone is ready to hit the road again this summer. Vaccinations are increasing, infection rates are dropping, and people are shaking off pandemic fatigue. New polls show 77% of Americans have plans to travel this summer,1 but a recent Safe Travels survey from MDLIVE suggests over half of travelers still feel stressed about their personal or family health while traveling this year.

1https://www.hotelbusiness.com/harris-poll-77-of-americans-planning-summer-travel/

“Consumers have shifted to a pragmatic planning mindset when it comes to traveling and health. Health is no longer an afterthought but has moved to the front seat of the planning process, perhaps for good.”

— Dr. Cindy Zelis, MDLIVE Chief Medical Officer

Here are the top five ways travelers in our survey are preparing for safer travel this year:2

2Safe Travels Survey, Russell Research on behalf of MDLIVE, an Evernorth company.

1. COVID-19 first-aid kits.

The new COVID-19 must-have medical kit: Along with over-the-counter medications and extra masks, 87% of travelers will pack a digital thermometer, while 71% plan to take along an over-the-counter COVID-19 test.

2. Outdoors is the place to be.

Travelers are planning to stay outdoors and socially distanced. While pre-pandemic travel plans centered around destinations and activities, 68% of travelers say these considerations have taken a back seat to personal and family health concerns. Select your destination to include outdoor and socially distanced activities.

3. Know your health options.

Travelers are more concerned this year about finding health care while in another region, town, or city. To alleviate that worry, research your destination to know where the nearest hospital or medical facility is.

4. Telehealth is the new prescription for healthy travels.

Virtual care allows you to see doctors 24/7 and get prescriptions if needed. Know the location of the nearest pharmacy, including 24-hour locations. If your doctor isn’t available, an MDLIVE doctor can call in a prescription directly to the pharmacy of your choice.

5. Download the MDLIVE app here today.

Telehealth apps are near the top of our lists as must-have tools for traveling. In fact, for 67% of us, virtual apps are just as crucial as rideshare apps. Having the MDLIVE app ready to go helps you avoid stress if you need care fast. It’s not only convenient and quick, but all you need is a phone or internet service.

“Getting sick on a trip is never part of the plan; but if it does happen, who wants to drive around an unfamiliar place looking for an urgent care clinic when you can see a doctor from your hotel room, vacation rental, or even your tent?”

— Dr. Zelis

MDLIVE has physicians in every state. There’s no worry about time zones, availability, or long wait times. Wherever you are in your travels, an MDLIVE doctor is available 24/7 every day of the year for health concerns and quick prescription refills.

If you don’t have it yet, download the MDLIVE app before you get back out there.

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