My worst nightmare is going on vacation and getting sick once I’ve arrived. Seriously, it’s the worst. All of that money saved and time off just to find yourself bedridden is enough to kill your wanderlust spirit. But after traveling and getting sick many, many times, I’ve researched and found many ways to avoid getting sick on the road.
Here are 9 of my strongest recommendations to keep you from getting sick while traveling.
Some of these are common sense while others are secrets I have discovered after too many strep throat infections and upset stomachs abroad. Either way, these are some of the strongest remedies to fight almost any illness you can catch before and during your vacation.
1. Take as Much Vitamin C as You Can
In my opinion, this is the most effective way to avoid getting sick on the road. Everyone has heard of Emergen-C or Airborne, but Vitamin C capsules are far more effective. Mostly because they’re not loaded with sugar. Taking 1000 mg of Vitamin C has been proven to keep your immune system functioning at optimum levels. And if you feel yourself getting a runny nose or sore throat, take 1000 mg every hour for about 5 hours everyday until it goes away!*
2. Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Everything
ACV is a miracle cure! Apple cider vinegar kills bacteria, lowers blood sugar and fights cholesterol. It’s also amazing for fighting against bug bites. The ACV excretes through your pores and makes bugs stay clear of your skin! Take 1 ounce of ACV with 8 ounces of water on an empty stomach in the morning or before bed for the best results.
3. Eliminate Bacteria with Coconut Oil
One of the most germy spots on your body is inside of your mouth! From the toxins you are inhaling to the bacteria that food is prepared in, there’s a lot of bacteria hiding in your mouth. Luckily, coconut oil has a lot of anti fungal properties. By swishing coconut oil in your mouth for 20 minutes (followed by spitting it out in the trash, NOT the drain), you’ll be able to remove all of the germs that eventually make their way into your body.
4. Try Some Ayurvedic Herbs and Medicines
If you find yourself traveling to East or Southeast Asia, you’ll find yourself surrounded by medicinal herbs you never even knew existed! These herbs do more than just keep you from getting sick. They calm your mind, give you energy, combat hormone imbalance and much, much more. You can even prepare for your trip by trying some of these herbs before you leave. Try some echinacea, pippali and ashwagandha to start.
5. Exercise
Working out is one of the best ways to build your immune system. Exercising increases circulation, muscle strength, burns fat and boosts your metabolism. A combination of all of these things keeps your body working extra hard and able to fight any signs of infection or illness.
6. Beware of the Hot Zones
Are you one of those people who sleep on their dining trays while flying because sitting back is just so uncomfortable? Yeah, me too. And apparently, that’s disgusting. According to this article, the airplane tray tables are where you’ll find the most germs. Followed by overhead air vents and flush buttons in the bathroom.
7. Get All of Your Shots
As if this needs mentioning, getting all of your shots before your travel is absolutely necessary. I understand that it’s expensive as hell and you probably won’t get rabies on your trip to Bali. But if you want to avoid getting sick on the road, then thems the rules of travel. Don’t forget any antibiotics the doctor might prescribe you!
If you start to feel a little inflammation in your throat or are catching a headache after all of those tips, there’s not reason you shouldn’t still try to enjoy your vacation. Take advil/ibuprofen if you absolutely need to, but don’t overdo it. I mean technically you can do Tylenol, but it’s kinda like the Netflix v. Hulu debate. You can’t love both.
Whether you’re sick or not, it’s super important to drink lots of water while you travel. In addition to fighting jet lag, water will keeping you energized for touring the city and keep you full so you won’t eat tons of pasta. And yes, it also keeps you from getting sick. Just remember to limit your tap water consumption (or avoid drinking it altogether) while traveling to foreign destinations.
