New research from ABTA – The Travel Association reveals that August is the peak month for young Britons heading abroad, with 44% of 18 to 24-year-olds having booked or considering an overseas trip this month, compared with a national average of 31% across all other ages. This surge in youth travel raises concerns for parents, especially as 45% of this age group plan to book their trip within four weeks of departure, leaving minimal time for preparation.
Health Expert Advice for Young Travellers
Dr Deborah Lee, a GP at Dr Fox Online Pharmacy, told Metro that teens on holiday without parents are likely to let their hair down and party, so it's crucial they are well advised and prepared for emergencies. She emphasised the importance of knowing how to access emergency contraception (EC), which is often available over the counter at pharmacies abroad. Morning-after pills can be highly effective: Ulipristal is 98-99% effective, while Levonelle is over 95% effective.
Dr Lee also warned about drug experimentation, noting that between 10% and 54% of young Brits experiment, depending on the destination. Party capitals like Ibiza or Ayia Napa tend to have higher figures. She advised teens to recognise the signs of a drug overdose, including disorientation, hallucinations, poor balance, anxiety, panic attacks, overheating, dehydration, sleepiness, and difficulty breathing.
Essential Health and Insurance Tips
Dr Lee strongly recommended applying for a UK Global Health Insurance card (GHIC), which is free and entitles holders to free medical treatment or treatment at the same price as locals when abroad. She also stressed the importance of staying hydrated in the heat, advising more than two litres of water per day, consumed little and often, and checking if tap water is safe to drink.
She cautioned against mixing caffeine, alcohol, and energy drinks, calling it a 'highly dangerous combination' that can cause high blood pressure and atrial fibrillation. Dr Lee also echoed ABTA's advice on travel insurance, noting that 1 in 4 UK travellers go abroad without it, which is risky, especially for teenagers who are prone to risk-taking behaviour.
ABTA's Top Safety Tips
- Make note of emergency services phone number
- Tell someone you trust back home where you are and what you're doing
- Use offline maps
- Take a second form of ID
- Know the signs of methanol poisoning
- Be aware of dodgy summer job offers
Travel Expert Insights
Helana Jackson, a former cabin crew member for Jet2 and Virgin Atlantic, now a travel micro-influencer, shared her advice. She recommends not posting in real-time on social media, as geo-tags and check-ins can reveal a person's exact location, making solo travellers vulnerable. She advises planning accommodation arrivals in advance, using reputable taxi firms, and ensuring flight times align with hotel check-ins.
Jackson also suggests travelling with two cards and a stash of emergency cash. Communication is key: always carry a portable charger and download an ESIM, which helps manage roaming costs and ensures family can stay in touch in an emergency. Finally, check airline cabin bag size requirements to avoid unexpected charges.
These expert tips aim to help parents prepare their teens for a safe and enjoyable first holiday abroad, covering health, safety, and practical considerations.
