This post was written by Lindsey Ribel, NP, Virtual Walk-in Clinic, Parkview Health.
As many Midwesterners prepare to head out of town for a spring vacation, it’s important to make sure you have the right items to keep everyone happy and healthy, as well as a care plan in case someone isn’t.
What to pack
Essentials when traveling this spring break should include the following:
Sun protection
Whether you’re going to a warm, sunny destination or a cool one for spring break, you should always bring sunscreen to protect your skin from the UV rays. The recommendation is to use SPF 30+ reapplied every 2-3 hours. The UV rays are obvious with warmer destinations, but sun can also reflect off water and snow causing sunburns.
Sunglasses, hats, visors, long sleeve swim shirts and swimsuit cover ups are essential for protecting yourself from the UV rays as well.
Nutrition
If you’re planning a road trip of any sorts, snacks and drinks are a must for saving time and money. Pack a cooler with water, fruit, protein bars and other healthy, portable options to keep everyone satiated. Reusable water bottles are convenient for staying hydrated.
Comfort items
Stay comfy with a travel pillow and blanket for those long stretches of driving when passengers need a nap.
Safety
A first aid kit is another essential to calm the occasional headache, bumps and scrapes that may occur. Bring proper hand sanitizers and wipes for easy clean up and to minimize germs on the go.
Money
Carry some cash as you never know when you’ll need a few dollars for tolls, parking or unexpected stops.
Water warning
We cannot emphasize the importance of water safety enough. Be sure to follow any posted pool and/or beach safety rules and use life jackets properly. Designate a “water watcher” to always keep an eye on anyone in the water. Also consider wearing bright colors to help spot others in crowed areas.
Establish a care plan
Spring break is all about making memories but sometimes the unexpected can happen, quickly turning into the need for access to convenient care. Before you leave for vacation, make sure you know how to access our virtual care options in case of a minor illness, need of prescription refills or for travel-related care when you arrive home.
Pro Tip: Keep the Parkview MyChart app handy
With Parkview MyChart's Virtual Walk-In Clinics. you can talk to a provider 24/7 from your smartphone, tablet or computer. Your provider will have access to your complete medical record and medication history so you can receive the same level of care as an in-person visit.
Virtual Walk-In Clinic video visits are available anywhere in the U.S. and open to anyone with a Parkview MyChart account, even if you don't currently have a Parkview provider.
To get started, log in to your MyChart account and select Virtual Walk-In Clinic from the menu. For the best visit experience, use the free MyChart mobile app, downloadable for Android or Apple products.
