Staying Safe and Healthy Abroad
You've planned the trip of a lifetime and the last thing you want is for something to go wrong. Of course, there are no guarantees in life, but there are steps you can take to avoid potential issues on your trip.
Here are a few resources to help you stay safe and healthy on your travels.
FCDO Travel Advice
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is the best source of up-to-date information on safety and security when travelling abroad. The official website provides advice on entry requirements, health risks, local laws and legal differences, as well as current warnings on travel.
It's a good idea to check the FCDO Foreign Travel Advice website for information on the destinations you will be visiting.
You have the option to sign up for email alerts for when information is updated.
If you prefer to use social media to stay updated, follow the @FCDOtravelGovUK page on X (formerly Twitter), @FCDOTravel on Facebook or @travelaware on Instagram.
Another useful online resource for safe travel is the Travel Aware gov.uk website. This site also includes young people with tips and advice on how to look after each other and help avoid serious accidents on holiday, plus updates on changes for British nationals travelling to the EU.
NHS Fit to Travel
For advice on vaccinations, health risks and considerations when travelling, the NHS Fit to Travel website is a valuable resource. You can search for advice by destination and check the risk of various diseases including malaria and yellow fever. The website also provides advice on food and water precautions to take when abroad, as well as health updates.
Spiking and Methanol Poisoning
When you’re out exploring and enjoying nights away abroad, good times should not include hidden dangers. Two serious risks to be aware of: drink-spiking and methanol poisoning.
Drink-spiking happens when someone puts drugs or other substances into your drink without you realising it. You may feel more drunk than expected, get confused, black out or wake up with no memory of how you got home.
Methanol poisoning is a separate but massive hazard. Methanol is a highly toxic alcohol sometimes found in counterfeit, un-labelled or homemade drinks. Its effects can hit hard and fast, and can lead to blurred vision, breathing problems, coma or even blindness.
How to look after yourself:
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Never leave your drink unattended, don’t accept drinks from people you don’t fully trust, and keep an eye on what you’re drinking.
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Avoid unsealed or homemade spirits, especially in places you don’t know well. Stick to licensed bars, reputable venues and sealed bottles.
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If someone shows signs like sudden vision trouble, extreme nausea or collapse after just a few drinks, treat it as an emergency — for methanol poisoning time is critical.
Stay safe, stay alert, and enjoy your trip — without letting this kind of risk spoil the memories. For full advice, check out the official guidance.
