Healthy holiday tips — infographic

Healthy holiday tips

See your doctor

Get a health check 6 to 12 weeks before going overseas. 

Check vaccine status

Make sure you’re up to date with routine vaccinations, and ask your GP or pharmacist about any travel vaccinations you may need.

Keep a mask handy

Wearing a face mask can help protect you, and those around you, from viruses while travelling.

Get travel insurance

Medicare usually won't cover you if you're hurt or unwell overseas. 

Protect yourself from mozzies

Many popular tourist destinations are home to mosquito-borne diseases like yellow fever and malaria.

Pack personal essentials

Remember to pack items like tampons, nappies, contraceptives and medication.

Check for travel requirements

Confirm whether your travel destination has any entry requirements, such as needing a visa. Some medications may also need a customs clearance.

Practise good hygiene

Maintain good hand and respiratory hygiene, and physically distance from others where possible.

Research water quality

Drinking contaminated water could lead to gastro or hepatitis A.

Be aware of rabies

Animals such as monkeys, dogs and bats can transfer rabies through bites and scratches.

Visit smarttraveller.gov.au (Opens in new tab) for travel advice at your destination.

Call 1300 555 135 (domestic) or +61 2 6261 3305 (international) for 24-hour consular assistance.

© Healthdirect Australia Limited - last reviewed 2026

healthdirect.gov.au