Does it seem like every time you travel you get sick? There are lots of reasons this might happen while traveling, including:
- time change disrupting your sleep
- not being prepared for big changes in climate and temperature
- trying new foods
- drinking contaminated water
- your immune system is weak due to the stress of travel
Luckily there are a number of things you can do to protect yourself so you’re less susceptible to catching a bug and ruining your trip.
Preventative measures before you start traveling
Before you leave home, take time to do these things to help keep sickness away.
- If you’re going to a foreign country, check to see if any travel vaccinations are recommended by your pharmacy. For example, a hepatitis vaccine is advised before travel to Mexico.
- Check the CDC website to see if there are any travel health notices for your destination.
- Some countries still have COVID vaccination requirements, so ensure your immunizations are up to date.
- Put together a first aid kit with antibiotic ointments, band-aids, pain relievers, and something for tummy troubles – just in case.
Tips to stay healthy when you’re traveling
Follow these 9 tips while you’re travelling to avoid getting sick.
- Exercise daily. Even a short walk can help you stay energized and fit while you travel.
- Drink plenty of water (bottled water and no ice cubes depending on your destination) so you stay hydrated. Limit sugary drinks.
- Eat healthy foods. Try lean proteins, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables you can peel yourself. Try to stay away from processed foods and heavy meals.
- Rest. It’s tempting to over do it, but try to get at least 8 hours of sleep per night.
- Take your everyday medications and vitamins.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. Keep an alcohol-based hand sanitizer or wipes with you for use when you aren’t near water.
- Avoid sharing drinks, food, or other items – you might know know that someone else is sick or getting sick.
- Wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat to protect yourself from the heat and sun.
- Relax. Let that stress disappear.
What to do if you get sick while traveling
Sometimes all tips and good habits can’t keep you from an illness. If you’re a Canadian traveling abroad, you should get medical attention as soon as possible when you get sick. You may need to contact a Canadian embassy or consulate to get assistance, depending on the length and location of your trip. Learn more about what to do if you get sick in another country.
Pack your travel health insurance
So far this has been all about preventing sickness. But, accidents and injuries can also happen, and require medical attention. Alongside your first aid kit, we recommend you pack travel medical insurance. This type of insurance covers those unexpected medical costs like doctor visits, hospital stays, ambulances, and prescription medications. It can also cover travel related expenses such as lost or stolen items, and trip interruption or cancellation.
Travel insurance can give you peace of mind, while protecting you t against emergency medical costs. But the plans can be detailed and complicated. It’s important to understand what coverage is provided, any exclusions, and other important provisions.
We’re here to help; speak with one of our travel advisors about your upcoming trip.
Our advisors work for you, they aren’t associated with a specific insurance company. Their services and advice are free.