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‘Staycations’ are becoming more popular because of the economic climate. Holidaying in your home country is a good idea but don’t forget that you will still need to take health precautions.

Before you go away, you should be as healthy as possible – especially if you are planning strenuous activity such as long hikes in the Peak District. If you want holiday accomodation Peak District try Peak District Online for some ideas. Maybe holiday cottages would be a good idea - a bit warmer than a tent!

If you aren’t at peak fitness levels make sure you build up your fitness at a sensible pace. Also ensure your feet are in good condition too i.e. toenails cut straight across – not too short and not too long to prevent damage to your feet whilst hiking.

Try and get any medical check ups done before you go away (e.g. dentist) and if you need any personal medication make sure you order enough supplies to see you through your holiday.

Prevention is better than a cure so invest in the right equipment before you go. For example, you should have a decent tent and sleeping bag to keep you warm and dry, suitable walking boots (which have been worn in), good quality socks, and waterproofs to stop you getting wet and cold.

A first aid kit is a must for any holiday in the UK. It will help in administering first aid if you have taken a recognised first aid course, but if not you can buy books to use as reference.

Even if you are just undertaking a relaxing camping trip you will still need to take a first aid kit with you to cover you for insect bites, minor cuts, grazes and sprains, sunburn, upset stomach and headaches. You may also want something to cover you for overindulgence!

If you are after medical supplies UK try LE West.

You should ideally include:
·    An easy to follow first aid instruction manual
·    Anti-bacterial hand gel
·    Basic bandages and safety pins
·    Waterproof plasters of different sizes
·    Blister relief plasters
·    Paracetamol
·    Ibuprofen (which has anti inflammatory properties)
·    Antiseptic wipes or cream
·    Insect sting relief e.g. calamine
·    Indigestion tablets
·    Upset stomach treatment
·    Tweezers
·    Scissors
·    Plastic gloves
·    Eye pads
·    Eye drops
·    Anti-histamine tablets
·    Rehydration salts
·    Sunblock, sunscreen and aftersun

You should obviously adapt the kits to suit your trip. Long trips into the hills for example may well need first aid kit additions such as splints and emergency blankets (to prevent hypothermia). Consider the number of people on the trip, any potential dangers, and how far you will be from medical help if you get into trouble. Be aware that children may not be able to be treated with adult medicines so check before you go.
Ensure all your medicines are in date and that they are stored in a suitable container. You can buy first aid bags if you want but a tupperware box will be fine. Don’t let your medicines get too hot and make sure the storage box or bag is waterproof. Make sure that all your medicines are correctly labelled and that they have instructions if you are unsure on dosage or usage.

Most importantly though, don’t get bogged down in panicking over what could happen to you on holiday. The chances are all will be fine but it pays to be prepared. If you practice common sense (such as making sure your BBQ food is cooked fully before you eat it) then you should have a happy healthy holiday.

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