Getting sick is annoying.
But getting sick when you’re on a trip you’ve spent ages planning and saving for is even worse.
Here are some ways to stay as healthy as you can, so all you have to think about is enjoying your trip.
BEFORE YOU GO
- Do your research
Does your destination have anything you should be worried about? Do you need to worry about malaria? Is the water safe? Know what you’re dealing with before you leave.
- Book a doctor’s appointment
Your doctor will be able to give you any vaccinations you need and advise you if you should carry any particular medications.
When you’re there you should also get a general check up, and get prescriptions for any medications you’re already taking . If you get bad travel sickness/anxiety when you travel, your doctor may also be able to provide you with some anti-nausea medications.
It’s also a good idea to get a print out of a summary of your medical history, including your doctor’s contact information. Tell whoever you’re travelling with where they can find it in case of an emergency.
- Stock up on medicinal needs
The amount and kind of medicine you take with you will vary from person to person, and will depend on where you’re going.
You may consider taking the following with you:
- Cold and flu medicine
- Anti diarrhea medication
- Painkillers
- Voltaren for sore and tired muscles
- Antiseptic cream
- Antihistamine for allergies
- Sleeping medication
- Travel sickness pills
- Condoms/other contraceptives
It’s a good idea to also consider taking antibiotics with you if your doctor says this is ok. They can be used for a number of ailments from chest infections to urinary tract infections. Check with your doctor before you leave about when to use them. Make sure they are labelled with your name.
ON THE PLANE
- Sanitise your space
Carrying antibacterial wipes when you travel is always a good option. Although planes are cleaned between each service, you’re less likely to pick up any nasties if you wipe down your tray table and arm rests. Sanitising your hands before you eat is also a good option.
- Drink loads of water
The air in the cabin will dehydrate you quickly so it’s important to keep your fluids up. If you’re not a big water drinker normally consider adding a splash of juice for flavour.
- Stay clear of alcohol
It’s tempting to take advantage of the free alcohol on board, but it’s best to avoid it. It will dehydrate you and make you more susceptible to jet lag. Long haul flights are bad enough without a hangover.
- Try and adjust your sleeping patterns for your destination
Set your watch to the time of your destination and if you can, adjust your sleeping and eating accordingly. You’ll be less likely to be hit with jet lag when you arrive.
- Go for walks and stretch regularly
Deep vein thrombosis doesn’t just affect the elderly. It’s important to get up and walk around on long haul flights. Stretch regularly and consider a pair of anti-DVT socks.
ON THE GROUND
- Know your body: what should you watch out for?
If you have allergies or dietary requirements, you should consider carrying translation cards explaining what you can and can’t have.
If you get colds easily, be sure to sanitise your hands before you eat and eat lots of fruit and veg.
If you have a weak stomach, carry anti-nausea meds in your daypack.
It’s all about anticipating what you might need and being prepared for it.
- Wear mosquito repellant
Especially if you’re in South East Asia or Sub-Saharan Africa
- Carry hand sanitizer
Use it before meals, or if you don’t have access to a bathroom
- Drink bottled water
Not necessary for every destination, but if unsure buy bottled. If bottled water isn’t available boiling some is an option too.
- Carry some basic meds with you
Headache tablets and anti nausea meds are probably all you’ll need on a daily basis. You can carry anything else in your suitcase.
- Wear sunblock
No one wants to be that tourist who fell asleep with sunglasses. Just wear it.
- Think about where you eat
If you’re going to eat street food, look at where the lines are long and the food is piping hot. If it’s hot it’s less likely to be full of nasties.
- Exercise regularly
You’ll probably do this unintentionally just by hitting the pavement and exploring new cities. But if your hotel has a pool or gym, think about using them (even if you just use the sauna or Jacuzzi, I won’t tell)
- Eat enough fruit and vegetables
But muuuuummmm I hate broccoli! You’re on holiday, it’s tempting to eat nothing but pizza and pancakes. But you’ll only end up burning out with no energy and probably a cold.
Just because you’re overseas doesn’t mean you should abandon your usual diet completely. You can still try all of the local specialties, check out a farmers market for fresh produce and treat yourself.
- Practice safe sex
This is a no brainer. You don’t want to be dealing with the risk of STI’s or pregnancy. Even if you don’t think you’ll be using them, pack condoms. If you don’t end up using them you can have them on hand for friends.
- Get a good sleep
If you’re going sightseeing all day everyday your body is not going to like it if you then spend a night out on the town.
There’s no reason why you can’t experience nightlife and see the sights. Just plan ahead and go out after you’ve had a quieter day or get an early night if you’ve been walking around all day.
- Take rest days when you need them
When you’re travelling it can be tempting to be on the go 24/7 to make use of what little time you have. But if you’re travelling for longer than a week you’ll probably end up exhausting yourself anyway. Plan ahead and think about a relaxed day by the pool or an afternoon of sunshine in the park. It’s ok to spend a night in and order room service, it’s part of the fun!
Taking a few precautions and being prepared will ensure even if you do get sick on the road, you’ll be able to deal with it quickly and (hopefully) painlessly. Just listen to your body and if it’s telling you to slow down, listen!
Have you ever had a health horror story when overseas? Do you have any handy tips or tricks? Leave a comment below!
