What to Do if You Get Sick While Traveling in Spain
Here’s another guest post from Maggie Berry of EcoWorries.com.
PLEASE NOTE: This post is for entertainment purposes only. It should not be taken as advice.
Falling ill on a trip can derail even the best-planned holiday. Whether you’re exploring Barcelona’s gothic alleys or hiking in the Pyrenees, a sudden fever or food poisoning can make adventure feel like an ordeal. Knowing what to do (and what not to) helps you stay calm, avoid unnecessary stress, and get back on your feet faster.
Quick Takeaways Before You Read On
● For emergencies, call 112 anywhere in Spain; operators often speak English.
● Always carry a copy of your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or travel insurance details.
● If you feel unwell, you may want to visit a local farmacia—Spanish pharmacists are highly trained and can advise on most mild illnesses.
● Keep your medical documents digital, organized, and cloud-accessible before departure.
● Stay hydrated and prioritize rest—your itinerary can wait; recovery can’t.
Understanding the Healthcare Landscape in Spain
Spain’s healthcare system offers both public and private options. EU citizens can access emergency public healthcare with an EHIC, while non-EU travelers must rely on travel insurance or out-of-pocket payments.
The “Always Pack” List
Even experienced travelers forget the basics when packing. Here’s what to include in your personal care kit to avoid frantic pharmacy runs later.
● Personal medications (in original packaging)
● Pain relievers (paracetamol or ibuprofen)
● Rehydration salts and anti-diarrheal tablets
● Thermometer and adhesive bandages
● Prescription copies (translated into Spanish if possible)
● Basic travel insurance card and emergency contacts
One small pre-trip habit can save hours later—store these essentials in your carry-on, not your checked luggage.
Keep Your Medical Records Travel-Ready
Before you leave home, digitize your medical records so they’re easily accessible anywhere. This includes prescriptions, vaccination records, and insurance documents. Instead of juggling multiple PDFs, consolidate everything into one file for easier reference using a tool to add pages to a PDF. This allows you to reorder, delete, or rotate pages so your medical history stays tidy and usable even offline.
Upload the final version to a secure cloud service (like iCloud or Google Drive) so you can share it with a doctor if needed abroad.
How to Seek Help Effectively
When communicating with medical staff:
● Learn simple phrases like “Tengo fiebre” (I have a fever) or “Me duele la cabeza” (My head hurts). Bringing a Spanish-English dictionary is a good idea.
● Show your insurance details or EHIC immediately.
● Keep your passport handy; it’s often required for patient registration.
If you’re traveling with others, let them inform your accommodation host—they may be able to recommend local clinics or accompany you for translation.
How-To Checklist for Illness in Spain
Here’s a quick step-by-step plan to follow if you start feeling sick abroad:
Call 122 for emergencies.
Pause your itinerary. Rest first; traveling through illness worsens symptoms.
Check your travel insurance. Confirm coverage before visiting a clinic.
Seek medical help if needed.
Stay reachable. Inform your hotel or tour operator. They may be able to help in urgent cases.
Document expenses. Keep receipts for insurance claims.
Hydrate, sleep, and avoid alcohol. Recovery is faster when your body rests.
When Things Don’t Go as Planned: FAQs for Travelers
Before heading to the conclusion, here are the most common questions travelers ask when sickness hits mid-trip.
Travel Recovery FAQ: What You Need to Know
Q1: Can I get antibiotics without a prescription in Spain?
No. Antibiotics require a doctor’s prescription, even for tourists. However, pharmacists can suggest non-prescription alternatives and may be able to help you schedule a doctor’s visit if necessary.
Q2: How do I pay for treatment if I’m uninsured?
Private clinics typically accept credit cards. Keep all receipts—most travel insurers reimburse post-trip. Some hospitals can issue itemized bills in English upon request.
Q3: Can I use telemedicine services from my home country?
Yes. Many travelers connect with doctors online for prescriptions or advice. Before you travel, ensure you can receive digital documents legally recognized in Spain if medication is prescribed.
Q4: What should I do if I test positive for COVID-19 while abroad?
Isolate immediately, notify your accommodation, and contact local health services for guidance. Spanish pharmacies sell rapid tests.
Q5: Will my travel insurance cover missed tours or flights?
You will need to check with your insurer about your plan. Always file within the insurer’s time limits and include receipts for any related costs.
Q6: What if I don’t speak Spanish?
Most urban clinics and emergency operators have English-speaking staff. In rural areas, translation apps like Google Translate work well for basic communication. It's a good idea to bring a hard-copy Spanish-English dictionary in case internet services disconnect or your smart phone loses power.
Final Thoughts
Getting sick while traveling is stressful but manageable with preparation. The key lies in acting quickly, staying informed, and keeping your health documents accessible. Spain’s healthcare system is traveler-friendly, but it helps immensely if you’re proactive and organized.
