HEALTH

Apart from health insurance, you need take only the precautions that you would take at home if you are travelling in the EU or the USA: in Europe there are no special needs for vaccinations, etc., though it is always a good idea to make sure that your tetanus injections are up to date. It's also a good idea to visit the dentist regularly. It may not be fun, but it's better than nasty surprises on the road. I know: I've had dental trouble on the road, and that is even with regular check-ups.

Carry adequate supplies of any prescription drugs, including contraceptive pills, and a 'to whom it may concern' letter from your doctor saying what they are. This can be useful at border crossings, or in the unlikely event that you are busted, or in the rather more likely event that you stay away a bit longer than you intended, or simply miscount, and need a few extra pills. Surprisingly many pharmacists will oblige.

Young male travellers may care to carry condoms. Availability varies widely throughout Europe. France is probably easiest, where there are vending machines all over the place, including at the entrances to schools (usually the back entrance, as a sop to decency).

First aid kits are covered under Equipment and after this, it's a question of country-by-country requirements as given in the appropriate sections. It is however worth knowing that American doctors can be disgracefully ignorant of, and lax about, such things as hepatitis jabs and (especially) anti-malarial precautions for India. Don't necessarily assume that your doctor knows better than we do, though in the majority of cases, he will and should.

DISCLAIMER

This information has been verified as far as possible but should not be taken as definitive. You alone are responsible for your safety on a motorcycle (or elsewhere) and should always ride and behave accordingly. Click here for the Official Health Warning.

Go to the Home Page

or support the site with a small donation.

 

last updated: 24/11/03