Travel Health Do’s and Don’ts

Many travel health and safety guidelines might seem like common sense. But it’s easy to forget about them when you’re in the stressful planning stages or in the midst of a fast-paced itinerary. So before you go, check out our travel health survival guide and remember, preparation is crucial to staying healthy and enjoying your trip.     

Before You Leave

DO talk to your primary care provider before you travel. Discuss any health concerns well in advance, including recommended vaccinations, managing chronic conditions, and making sure you have enough medication for your trip.

DO research your destination. Learn about local food and water safety, air quality, infectious diseases, and mosquito- and tick-borne illnesses. Save local emergency phone numbers before you leave. Also check whether any prescription medications you take are restricted or prohibited in the countries you’re visiting, as some medications that are legal in the U.S., including certain ADHD medications and sleeping pills, may not be permitted elsewhere. The CDC’s Travelers’ Health website and the U.S. Department of State’s Travel Advisories are great places to start and provide destination-specific guidance to help you prepare.

DON’T pack prescription medications in your checked luggage. Keep them in your carry-on to avoid problems if your luggage is lost or exposed to extreme temperatures. Bring a few extra days’ worth of medication in case your return home is delayed.

On the Way

DO keep your nasal passages hydrated. Consider using a saline nasal spray before boarding and after arriving. It can relieve dryness and support your nose’s natural ability to clear away germs and airborne particles. Wearing a mask on the plane can also help reduce your exposure to respiratory viruses.

DO reduce your risk of blood clots on long flights. If you’re flying for more than six hours, be aware that pregnancy, a family history of blood clots, recent surgery, and estrogen-based medications such as birth control pills can all increase your risk. Take appropriate precautions, such as getting up to move around during the flight when possible.

While You’re There

DO stay alert when using local transportation. Be especially cautious in countries where people drive on the left or where traffic laws may not be followed consistently. Always wear a seatbelt, cross only at designated crosswalks when the pedestrian signal is on, and avoid riding motorcycles.

DON’T drink tap water unless you know it’s safe. In many parts of Latin America, Africa, and Asia, tap water, ice, and raw produce washed in tap water can cause gastrointestinal illness. Use bottled or properly disinfected water for drinking and even for brushing your teeth.