7 Tips For Healthy Travel

Traveling the world is exciting, energizing and educational, but it also can be a miserable experience if you get sick.  Whether you’re going cruising in the Caribbean, fishing in Alaska or bicycling in Europe, it’s smart to take some precautions.  Here are 7 tips to help you and your family have a healthy trip:

See your doctor.  Schedule your visit six weeks before you leave, in case you need any immunizations.  Make sure you have a supply of your medications in their original containers, and carry them with you on the plane.  For international travel, you should carry the actual prescription or other proof that the medications are legal (especially if you take a narcotic).

If you’re going on a cruise, check the ship’s “Report Card” on the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention site at www.cdc.gov.  Even though the risks of getting a virus on a ship are small, be vigilant about germs and wash your hands thoroughly for at least 30 seconds in warm to hot water.

On long plane flights, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and stretch your arms and legs by walking around the cabin.

Eat smart.  Travel can bring you in contact with things your body isn’t used to.  So as much as you’d like to try the unusual, you’re better off sticking with what you know.  Drink bottled water, make sure meat and fish are properly cooked, and be careful about food from street vendors.

Pack a personal “health kit.” It’s always good to have sunscreen, insect repellent, hand sanitizers, antacids, motion sickness medication and first aid essentials, and it’s probably cheaper to buy these items at home. 

Do your research.  If you’re going somewhere “exotic,” visit www.travel.state.gov for Country Specific Information.   Consider joining (for free) the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travellers, which lists English-speaking doctors in 125 countries.

Take along your common sense.  Get plenty of rest, relax and enjoy!