8 Travel Health Tips for Expats in Asia | Stay Healthy Abroad

Trips require planning. Flights, hotels, and schedules come first. However, health and insurance cover matter just as much. As you prepare for your journey, remember that according to the World Health Organization (WHO), millions of international travelers seek medical care each year for issues that could have been prevented. Use these steps to stay safe abroad.

1) Confirm your coverage before you go

First, ask your insurer what is covered abroad. Check urgent and emergency care. Confirm how claims work in your destination. Additionally, see if your plan includes virtual care such as video visits or online chat.

  • Save your policy number and 24/7 helpline in your phone.
  • Note any copays, deductibles, and currency rules for reimbursement.

Learn about expat-focused plans on Winson Health.

Clothes and pills in a travel bag. Concept of medication required in journey

2) Refill prescriptions early

Order refills 1–2 weeks before departure. This gives the pharmacy time to process extra quantities. It also prevents last-minute stress. The CDC notes that around 10% of travelers abroad require additional medication, but many fail to bring enough supply.

  • Keep a written list of each medication and dosage.
  • Pack medicines and medical supplies in your carry-on bag.
  • Bring trusted OTC items (pain relief, allergy pills, rehydration salts).

3) Book a pre-travel health check

If your trip is long or remote, schedule a visit 4–6 weeks before you fly. Ask your doctor to:

  • Review routine vaccines (flu and COVID-19 included).
  • Recommend destination-specific shots or prophylaxis.
  • Update letters for controlled medicines, if needed.

WHO estimates that up to 70% of travel-related illnesses are preventable through vaccines or proactive medical advice.

4) Follow official travel health advice

Before you go, don’t just rely on generic travel sites. Expats in Asia face unique health challenges, from local insurance gaps to regional outbreaks. Winson Health provides tailored advice and coverage options to match your destination and travel plans. Our advisors can help you understand which vaccinations, screenings, or policies are relevant before you leave.

5) Prepare a compact health kit

Next, build a small kit you can carry daily. Keep it simple and legal for your destination.

  • Basic first aid: plasters, antiseptic wipes, bandage, tweezers.
  • Fever and pain relief, oral rehydration salts, motion sickness tabs.
  • Spare masks, hand sanitiser, insect repellent, sunscreen.

6) Safeguard documents and contacts

Keep copies in two places, both on your phone and on paper. Share them with a travel partner, too.

  • Passport, visa, insurance card, and vaccination record.
  • Emergency numbers: local ambulance, insurer, and your embassy.
  • Nearest clinic or hospital at your destination.

7) Reduce common travel health risks

Small habits make a big difference. Therefore, keep these routines on the road:

  • Hydrate often. Limit alcohol on long flights.
  • Choose safe food and water. Wash or sanitise hands frequently.
  • Move every 60–90 minutes on flights to support circulation.
  • Sleep well the first night. Jet lag improves with daylight and routine.

8) Know when to seek help

Finally, act early if something feels wrong. Use your virtual care first when appropriate. Go to urgent care or the ER for red-flag symptoms (chest pain, severe shortness of breath, high fever, dehydration, or head injury).

How Winson Health helps expats

Winson Health provides expat-ready cover across Asia, so care is simpler and faster wherever you go. OECD research shows that expatriates without cross-border insurance often pay 2–3 times more for treatment than locals. The right cover prevents these costly surprises.

  • Comprehensive outpatient benefits for everyday needs.
  • Direct billing with trusted hospitals and English-speaking doctors.
  • Clear claims steps and ongoing support while abroad.

Explore plan or contact our team to review your travel protection today.

Quick checklist (save this!)

  • Coverage confirmed + helpline saved
  • Prescriptions refilled + carry-on packed
  • Doctor visit completed (if needed)
  • Health kit ready
  • Docs backed up + emergency contacts noted

Final word

Trips are exciting. But preparation protects your plans. With the right cover and a few smart steps, you can travel with confidence and control costs.

Ready to travel protected? Talk to Winson Health today and set up the right cover before you fly.