How to avoid getting sick while traveling: 5 practical tips
Stay healthy on the road with these five essential precautions—from hand hygiene to hydration and food safety—to ensure your travels stay enjoyable, not exhausting.
Even though travel is an incredible experience, it can put stress and fatigue on the body. The immune system can become weakened, making you more susceptible to illness. There are preventive measures you can take to avoid getting sick while traveling. Here are 5 practical tips to help you stay healthy during your trip.
Wash your hands regularly
This may seem obvious, but the first rule for avoiding sickness while traveling is to wash your hands frequently. It’s surprising how many people skip this simple step. Be sure to scrub up before eating and after using the restroom. If soap and water aren’t easily available, use antiseptic wipes or a hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol. Also, avoid touching your face—cold and flu viruses can spread easily when transferred from hands to the mouth, nose, or eyes. If you must touch your face, wash your hands first.
Stay hydrated
When you're on the move, it’s easy to get dehydrated without even realizing it. Make it a point to drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if temperatures aren’t soaring. If plain water isn’t appealing, jazz it up with a splash of lemon or fruit juice to improve the flavor and boost your intake. You can also sip on tea—delicious in many parts of the world.
Skip street food
While street food might look tempting and authentic, it can also be a hotspot for germs. These dishes may be prepared in unsanitary conditions and exposed to dangerous bacteria—and sometimes left out in the heat. If you want to try local cuisine, opt for restaurants with strong reviews that appear clean and well-maintained. Keep in mind that your immune system may not be used to a new way of life.
Get enough sleep
Prioritize good sleep throughout your trip, as sleep deprivation weakens your immune system. If you're crossing time zones, work on adjusting quickly by getting plenty of rest at night and resisting the urge for daytime naps.
Pack a travel first-aid kit
Dietary changes while traveling can disrupt digestion, so it may help to pack probiotics to support your gut and minimize discomfort from unfamiliar foods. Bring essential medications in a travel first-aid kit along with basics for minor injuries. You can find these kits starting from just a few euros on Amazon or at any major retailer.
Before you leave, make sure all your vaccinations are up to date, so you’re protected against diseases common in your destination.
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