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The medical supplies appropriate for travel will quite naturally depend on the individual and on the nature, scope, and duration of the trip being planned. A basic kit containing nonmedicinal supplies, nonprescription drugs, and prescription medications can be a starting point in planning for both lay and physician travelers, however. Although medical responsibility for assisting in emergency situations during travels as well as liability differ from location to location, in general the physician should not hesitate to give aid in perceived situations of need.

Several risks can be posed by travel, even when the stay is not protracted nor the destination exotic. Air travelers should consider the potential problems associated with decreased cabin pressure, hypoxia, and circadian dysrhythmia, problems that can contraindicate flying for some. Motion sickness can affect those traveling by air, sea, or land; medications are available to combat the symptoms, and several other remedies such as changing visual stimuli are also worth trying. Persons staying in hotels, particularly high rises, should review several general guidelines for defensive action in case of fire and should become familiar with the physical layout and escape routes of the building in which they are staying.

Various medical conditions--cardiovascular and pulmonary problems, thrombosis, diabetes, and others--can present special risks and/or problems in travel. These should be discussed as part of a thorough predeparture evaluation with affected patients who are planning overseas travel. In addition, certain travelers may require medical follow-up on their return. Various travel medicine resource organizations, booklets, and books should be made known to all travelers.

Physicians counseling patients who are planning major travels should make sure that baseline immunizations (diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, polio, measles, rubella) and any necessary boosters are current. In addition, several other immunizations may be warranted (yellow fever, typhoid, and cholera), depending on destination(s) and itinerary, and prophylaxis for malaria may be advisable. As worldwide requirements for immunization do change, the physician should verify current requirements before planning an immunization schedule for a particular patient.