Getting sick is no fun. Falling ill while traveling is worse. You spend weeks planning the perfect vacation or prepping for an important business trip. The last thing you need is to be feeling miserable and away from your bed and doctors. That is why you need ways to prevent getting sick when traveling.
Some people are even more prone to getting sick, people with a lower immune system, the elderly, and asthmatics are hyper-aware of feeling bad on trips. But they know there are ways to help improve your chances of fighting off illnesses.
Ways to Prevent Getting Sick when Traveling
Practice Good Hygiene
This is going to sound ridiculous to tell an adult, but washing your hands, the right way is the easiest way to help prevent the spread of germs. Practicing proper hand washing is the best way to fight the spread of norovirus, gastrointestinal issues, MRSA, and even hepatitis A.
Use hot water if possible, and lather for at least 30 seconds to get the most out of it. Many travelers also make sure to pack hand sanitizer to use when they can get to a bathroom. This is a great alternative.
Drink Bottled Water
This applies if you are traveling out of the country. Drinking water in unfamiliar areas can cause you to have nasty bouts of diarrhea and a host of other gastrointestinal issues. Different regions have different ways of water filtration and treatment, and they may make you very sick. Packing bottled water is an easy way to ensure that this doesn’t happen to you.
Sun Protection
If your travels take you somewhere warm and sunny, make sure you are prepared to protect yourself from the sun’s damaging rays. Nothing will ruin a trip faster than a bad sunburn. If you plan on lounging on the beach, make sure you are using the correct sunscreen with a high enough SPF to keep your skin healthy.
Vaccination
If you are traveling abroad, chances are you will need to visit the doctor. Not all travel requires vaccinations, but some are recommended. It is essential to schedule a visit with your primary care physician before booking your trip, so they can recommend the vaccinations that will help keep you healthy on your journey.
Bug Spray
Make sure to pack bug spray. Mosquitoes in the US can be carriers of many different types of illnesses. And while sitting outside and enjoying nature is peaceful and relaxing, you want to make sure you protect yourself from bites.
Getting attacked by mosquitos will ruin any trip if you are covered in bites. Using a high-quality bug spray can help nip this in the bud.