The reason a person is travelling will in some part determine the risk they may experience whilst abroad. People travel for many reasons including holidays, business, expeditions, to visit family or friends or to undertake voluntary work.

It is quite obvious that someone intending to back pack through the jungle or kayak down the Amazon or Nile will be at a higher risk than someone intending to spend two weeks staying in a five star hotel relaxing by the pool. For each traveller it is important to consider the individual risks they may be exposed to.

People intending to visit family or friends are more likely to come into closer proximity with the local population. This is an important risk factor when considering infections transmitted by the respiratory route, such as influenza, diphtheria, tuberculosis or meningitis.

Those who return to their native country to visit friends or family often underestimate the risk of contracting malaria, many believe that they will still be immune to the parasite and fail to use adequate chemoprophylaxis or practice bite avoidance. Patients should be advised that acquired immunity can be significantly reduced after as little as six months and lost completely after two years outside of a malaria zone.

Backpackers and expedition tourists are more likely to visit remote or unusual areas or engage in activities that are more risky than the standard swimming or sunbathing. These activities can increase the possibility of insect or animal bites as well as accidents and injuries. High risk activities such as climbing, scuba diving, rafting or other water sports can be hazardous and increase the risk of personal injury. This may necessitate additional specialist advice, vaccines, equipment, medical treatment or insurance. The desire to undertake challenging activities also raises questions over the traveller's ability to reliably use prophylactic measures or medicines.

Cave explorers, botanists or zoologists should be advised of the importance of rabies vaccination as they have an increased risk of being bitten by bats or other animals that can transmit rabies.

Patients who are travelling to undertake voluntary work may have specific needs requiring specific health advice. For example, doctors and nurses who travel to work abroad are more likely to be exposed to blood borne infections such as hepatitis B, whilst vets or volunteers in animal sanctuaries are more likely to contract rabies from animal bites. Anyone intending to work within the community such as teachers, missionaries or healthcare workers are at an increased risk of contracting infections transmitted by the respiratory route such as influenza, diphtheria, tuberculosis or meningitis.

Over indulgence and sexual risk taking may be a factor to consider for business travellers. This can be attributed to social isolation, missing family or friends, cultural differences, language barrier or loneliness. Travelling at short notice can also lead to poor preparation for travel and a resultant increased risk.

Any traveller who indicates that they may be sexually active whilst abroad should be advised to take condoms with them rather than rely on purchasing them abroad. This provides the reassurance that they will meet the high standards within the UK necessary to carry a CE mark. Patients should be advised to store condoms in a cool dry place and avoid exposing them to oil based products such as suntan lotion or other toiletries.

The possibility of medical tourism or travelling abroad for specific medical procedures, including cosmetic surgery, should be considered a significant risk factor and travellers advised regarding suitable vaccination schedules. This should include vaccination against hepatitis B and tetanus.