Sexual Health When Travelling
Travel can bring new experiences and new risks. Planning ahead keeps your sexual health on track wherever you go.
Travel often brings new places, new people and sometimes new partners. A little preparation before you leave helps you stay safe and healthy wherever your journey takes you, and it means an unexpected situation will not turn into a crisis far from home.
Pack supplies
Bring condoms, lubricant and any regular medications, including contraception, in your carry-on luggage. Brands, sizes and availability vary around the world, and familiar products are one less thing to worry about.
Know the local health services
Before you travel, find out where you could access sexual health services, pharmacies and emergency care at your destination. Save the details on your phone so you are not searching in a hurry.
Understand local laws and customs
Laws and cultural attitudes relating to relationships, sexuality and sex work vary widely between countries and even between Australian states. Understanding them helps you stay safe and respectful.
Consider vaccinations
Some vaccinations, including hepatitis A, hepatitis B and HPV, help protect sexual health. Discuss them with your GP or a travel health clinic several weeks before departure, as some require more than one dose.
Be cautious with alcohol
Holidays can involve more drinking than usual, which affects judgement and makes safer sex less consistent. Pacing yourself helps you enjoy the trip and remember it.
Know your emergency options
Find out in advance how to access emergency contraception or post-exposure prophylaxis at your destination. Both are time-sensitive, so knowing where to go matters.
Keep your safety habits
Tell someone you trust where you are staying, meet new people in public places first and trust your instincts. The same common sense that keeps you safe at home applies abroad.
Test when you return
Consider a sexual health check after returning, particularly if you had new partners. Some infections take time to show up, so your clinician may suggest timing.
Mind your travel insurance
Check what your travel insurance covers, including medical care, before you leave.
Planning ahead lets you enjoy travel fully while protecting your health.
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