With summer just eight weeks away, holiday-goers travelling outside the UK are being reminded to check whether any vaccinations are needed before jetting off, as research reveals more than half (54%) admit to leaving it too late or not checking at all.

Additional research by Boots also found that over 40% of travellers admitted to being unsure of the travel vaccination requirements for the destinations they visit. This grew to 60% for younger travellers aged 18-24, resulting in over a third (35%) of this age group deciding not to get a recommended vaccination before going on away.

For many, some of the biggest barriers to not getting a recommended vaccination include worries about side effects (30%), not thinking it was needed (24%) and lack of time (21%).

Boots Superintendent Pharmacist, Claire Nevinson said: “It’s important to take steps to protect our health when we travel abroad so we can focus on enjoying our holiday. Travel vaccinations can help protect against serious diseases that are more common in other parts of the world and that we may not be exposed to in the UK. We recommend getting vaccinated at least six to eight weeks before departure for the best chance to protect yourselves and your family.  

“Boots offers a range of vaccinations and advice to help protect against disease, and if travellers are unsure which vaccinations they need, they can speak to one of our friendly healthcare colleagues in store or visit Boots Quick Check Tool.” 

The Boots Travel Vaccinations & Health Advice Service* is available in selected UK stores and offers travel health advice, antimalarial treatments and also vaccinations for protection against Rabies, Chikungunya, Japanese Encephalitis, Dengue and many more.   

Ahead of the peak travel season, Claire also shares wider healthcare and travel tips for families this summer.  

Don’t forget the healthcare essentials 

“Being far from home, it’s always wise to pack a few healthcare products depending on the destination you’re travelling to. A small first aid kit may be a good start. You could consider including pain relief medicine, antihistamine medicine to help relieve symptoms of hay fever and other allergies, plasters, antiseptic cream, insect repellent and of course sunscreen. It’s also important to make sure you have an adequate supply of any prescription medicines that you take.” 

 Pack the right sun protection for you and your family  

“Applying sunscreen is recommended all year round, but when it’s warmer outside you need to ensure you’re using a product with SPF30+ for adults or SPF50 for children and a high UVA protection. Sunscreen should be applied before going outside and allowed to dry and then reapplied regularly throughout the day.” 

Hydration is key 

“Staying hydrated is vital especially on warm, sunny days to help ensure you do not become dehydrated. Aim to drink bottled water soon after waking and continue to drink plenty of water throughout the day. You could even consider electrolytes throughout the day.” 

Keep an eye out for UV rays 

“Don’t forget to protect your eyes from sun damage by wearing good quality wraparound sunglasses when in direct sunlight, as UV light can cause long-term damage to your eyes. It is important that children wear sunglasses too when outside in the sun as children’s eyes are particularly prone to sun damage because they have larger pupils and clearer lenses, which allow more UV to get in.” 

*Eligibility criteria and charges apply. Available in selected pharmacies, subject to availability. A Travel Health Service consultation fee applies.

All research was conducted by Censuswide amongst 2,000 adults in the UK, aged 18+. Fieldwork took place 1st May 2026 to 6th May 2026