01706 824747 info@scoutmoorpharmacy.co.uk
9 Market St, Edenfield, Bury, BL0 0JQ
Scout Moor Pharmacy

How we can keep our young people travel-safe

How we can keep our young people travel-safe

Summers approaching, so there’s one last push to get those exams out of the way and they’re off!  Here at Scout Moor Pharmacy Travel Clinic, Edenfield, Bury, we are passionate about supporting parents and youngsters as they embark on their great adventure.  Whether they’re taking a gap year, volunteering overseas, or just heading off on their first big solo trip, travelling abroad is an unforgettable experience. But it’s essential they stay safe while making memories.  We can provide the vaccinations and lots of other advice about preventing illness while they’re away.  What about the other stuff that keeps us parents awake at 4 in the morning, though?  Well, in recognition of all the parents and carers of all the young travellers we’ve seen this year, we’ve come up with 10 steps to help keep your youngster safe.

1. Check the FCDO Travel Advice Before You Book

  • Head to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website for up-to-date travel guidance, entry requirements, local laws, and safety alerts.
  • Sign up for email alerts for your destination. This can be found under “Travel Abroad” on the gov.uk web pages.
  • The FCDO may be contacted in an emergency either by telephone on +44 (0)207008 5000 or via social media.

2. Sort Out Travel Insurance Early

Don’t leave it to the last minute—get comprehensive insurance that covers:

  • Medical expenses
  • Trip cancellation
  • Lost/stolen belongings
  • Activities like trekking, scuba diving, etc.
  • Declare any pre-existing conditions.

3. Make a note of the nearest British Embassy, high commission or consulate

  • Some major crises (natural disasters, civil unrest) can trigger embassy support. Knowing how to contact the nearest UK embassy can be vital. Consular support is also there to help in case of lost passports, or if you have been a victim of crime, hospitalised or arrested.

4. Keep Digital & Paper Copies of Key Documents

  • Scan your passport, insurance, visa, and vaccination proof. Email them to yourself and a family member.

  • Keep a paper copy in a separate bag just in case.

5. Use a Local SIM or Roaming Add-On

  • Consider a local SIM or check your UK network’s roaming deals (e.g. Vodafone Global Roaming, EE Roam Abroad Pass).

  • Keep emergency contacts stored both on your phone and on paper.

6. Be Cautious with Valuables

  • Don’t flaunt expensive gear like AirPods, phones, or designer bags.

  • Use an anti-theft backpack or money belt when moving between locations.

7. Respect Local Cultures & Laws

  • UK travellers can stand out—read up on cultural norms, especially in conservative or religious countries.

  • Some things legal in the UK (like vaping or drinking) might be illegal or restricted elsewhere.

8. Know the Emergency Numbers Abroad

  • 112 works across the EU, but elsewhere it’s worth knowing the local number.

9. Don’t Be Naive with Nightlife — Protect Yourself & Your Mates

  • Never leave your drink unattended, and don’t accept drinks from strangers unless you see it poured and handed to you directly.

  • Use anti-spiking drink covers or lids (like StopTopps or NightCap). They’re small, reusable, and can fit in your bag or pocket.

  • Carry a spiking test kit if you’re going somewhere high risk—some UK universities and travel shops now provide them.

  • Stick with your group and agree on a meeting point in case someone gets separated.

  • If staying in hostels or budget hotels, bring a rubber door wedge or portable door lock for added security—especially for solo travellers. They’re cheap, light, and offer peace of mind.

  • Never give your room number out to strangers, and always lock your doors and windows when sleeping or leaving your accommodation.

10. Let Someone at Home Know Your Plans

  • Share your itinerary, flight details, and accommodation info with a family member or friend.

  • Check in regularly, even if it’s just a quick WhatsApp message.

🧰 Travel Safety Kit Checklist for UK Young Travellers

Pack these essentials to help you stay safe, secure, and prepared on the go:

Essentials

  • ✅ UK passport + photocopies (paper + digital)

  • ✅ EHIC/GHIC card (for EU travel)

  • ✅ Travel insurance documents (paper + digital)

  • ✅ Local emergency numbers & UK embassy contact

  • ✅ Small first aid kit (plasters, painkillers, antiseptic wipes).  Ask for your complementary First Aid pack when you have your travel vaccinations at Scout Moor Pharmacy, Edenfield, Bury.

Personal Safety Items

  • ✅ Door wedge or portable door lock (for hostels/cheap hotels).

  • ✅ Anti-spiking drink covers (e.g. StopTopps, NightCap)

  • ✅ Spiking test strips/kits (optional, but smart)

  • ✅ Personal alarm or whistle

  • ✅ Discreet money belt or neck wallet

Digital Security

  • ✅ Portable phone charger/power bank

  • ✅ Offline maps & translator app downloaded

  • ✅ Copies of documents stored securely in cloud/email

Other Smart Add-ons

  • ✅ Local SIM or international eSIM

  • ✅ Padlock for hostel lockers (combination recommended)

  • ✅ Reusable water bottle with filter (if travelling somewhere with uncertain water quality)

  • ✅ Travel plug adapter (UK to your destination’s socket)