Managing Medical Issues While Traveling Solo in Europe

Traveling solo through Europe is an empowering and enriching experience, but it can also lead to stress about potential health issues, especially as we age. Being prepared for medical issues that might arise while abroad is essential for ensuring a safe and stress-free trip. Whether you're managing a chronic condition or just want to be ready for unexpected health concerns, this guide will help you plan ahead, stay healthy, and handle any challenges that arise.

Before You Go: Prepare for Peace of Mind

1. Visit Your Doctor
   Schedule a check-up with your primary care physician well before your trip. Discuss your travel plans and ensure you’re up-to-date on any necessary vaccinations. If you have a chronic condition, request a written summary of your medical history to bring along, including any current prescriptions.
   
   
   

2. Stock Up on Medications
   Bring enough of your regular medications to last the entire trip, plus extra in case of delays. Keep medications in their original packaging with the prescription label intact to avoid issues at customs. If you are using controlled substances, you may want to consider asking your doctor for a letter explaining why you need them.
   
   
   

3. Invest in Travel Insurance
   Travel insurance with medical coverage is non-negotiable. Make sure your policy covers emergencies, doctor visits, hospital stays, and, if necessary, medical evacuation. Some policies also cover pre-existing conditions if you buy them soon after booking your trip, so don’t delay. I use a website called Squaremouth to compare pricing for the major travel insurance companies. Pricing is generally cheaper than you might expect.
   
   
   

4. Learn About Healthcare in Your Destination
   If you have ongoing medical conditions, you may want to research the healthcare system in the countries you plan to visit. Familiarize yourself with how to access care, whether you’ll need cash upfront, and where the nearest hospitals or clinics are located.
   
   
   

5. Pack a Travel-Friendly First Aid Kit
   Include basics like pain relievers, antihistamines, motion sickness remedies, and any other over-the-counter medications you rely on. But don’t go overboard, especially if you’re trying to pack light. Bandages and other first aid items are readily available at the many pharmacies in Europe. 
   

My friend Mary learned the hard way about packing extra medication when she got caught in Amsterdam during COVID. Her husband tested positive, and travel regulations at the time required them to delay their flight back to the U.S. Mary had brought just enough of her regular prescription for the length of their trip, but no extra. Fortunately, she had the original prescription bottle, so the local pharmacy was able to give her enough medication to cover her delay.

While You're Abroad: Staying Healthy

1. Prioritize Hydration and Nutrition
   Staying hydrated and eating balanced meals can help you avoid fatigue, which is especially important when sightseeing or traveling between destinations. Carry a refillable water bottle and pack healthy snacks.
   
   
   

2. Take Breaks and Pace Yourself
   Overdoing it can lead to exhaustion or exacerbate underlying conditions. Build downtime into your schedule to recharge. Many cities in Europe have beautiful parks and quiet cafés where you can relax.
   
   
   

3. Keep Emergency Numbers Handy
   The European equivalent to the U.S. 911 emergency line is 112. Save contact information for your travel insurance provider and the U.S. embassy or consulate on your phone.
   
   
   

4. Use Translation Tools
   Language barriers can make discussing medical issues challenging. If you have an allergy or chronic medical condition, you may want to learn the words for it in the local language. If you have to access a doctor or pharmacy, you can easily use a translation app.
   
   
   

5. Know Where to Get Help
   Pharmacies are an excellent first stop for minor health concerns in Europe, and they are easy to find: just look for the neon green cross. Pharmacists are trained to give medical advice and can recommend over-the-counter remedies or direct you to a doctor if needed.
   

Last month, while visiting Barcelona, I was having some issues with wax in my ear.  It was easy to find a pharmacy within a few blocks.  Before entering, I looked up the phrases “My ear hurts,” and “My ear is clogged.”  The pharmacist understood me right away.  But when she asked me a question with some words I didn’t understand, I pulled out Google translate on my phone and gestured for her to repeat herself.  It turns out, she was just asking if it was wax or water.  She then produced some drops and patiently explained that I should put 2 drops in the ear 3 times a day for 4 days, making sure I understood.  This story is typical of my experiences with pharmacies in Europe: the staff are always friendly and helpful.

Handling Emergencies: Staying Calm Under Pressure

1. Activate Your Travel Insurance
   Contact your travel insurance provider immediately if you need to see a doctor or visit a hospital. They can help you find approved providers and navigate billing.
   
   
   

2. Lean on Your Support Network
   Even though you’re traveling solo, you don’t have to handle emergencies alone. Contact a trusted friend or family member back home for emotional support. If you’re part of a travel group or membership, see if they offer assistance for solo travelers.
   
   
   

3. Follow Local Advice
   Medical professionals abroad may use different protocols, but they’re trained to handle a wide variety of issues. Trust their expertise while advocating for your needs.
   
   

While I’ve been fortunate never to need emergency medical assistance while traveling, my friend Kathy tells the story of when she got a tick while on a group tour in Romania.  Although Kathy bravely pulled it out herself, the tour guide insisted on accompanying her to a local clinic and translated Romanian with the doctor.  The doctor gave her a couple of pills to take to prevent infection, for which she was charged 22 cents; there was no fee for the visit itself.

Aftercare: Following Up Once Home

After your trip, you may want to schedule a follow-up appointment with your doctor to discuss any health issues you encountered. If you used travel insurance, keep all your receipts and documents for reimbursement claims. Reflecting on how you handled medical challenges can also help you prepare even better for your next solo adventure.

Traveling solo in Europe in your 50s, 60s, and beyond can be incredibly rewarding, and being prepared for medical situations ensures you can focus on the joys of the journey. By taking these precautions and trusting in your ability to adapt, you’ll feel confident exploring the world, knowing you can handle whatever comes your way.

Have you ever dealt with a medical issue while traveling solo? Share your experience or tips in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!