The best ways to avoid getting ill while travelling
Summer holidays are meant for fun and relaxation- not upset stomachs or colds. But with so many germs lurking in airports, hotel rooms, public toilets, and even the local water supply, it’s easy to pick up more than just a souvenir. To help you stay healthy on your trip, we’ve put together a practical guide to avoiding illness while you travel.
First things first, why are we more likely to get ill while travelling? When you're travelling, you're exposed to new environments and bacteria your body may not be used to- from tray tables on planes to shared hotel surfaces and unfamiliar food or water. Airports, hotels and public transport are also what's known as ‘high touch areas’ with lots of people constantly passing through this means germs can be passed around quicker than normal.
Hygiene Essentials To Pack
- Antibacterial hand gel
- Antiseptic wipes
- Tissues
- Face masks
Stay Clear From Germs
- Use antibacterial wipes on shared surfaces. Wipe down your airplane tray table, armrests, hotel remote controls, or restaurant tables before using them. It only takes a few seconds and can significantly reduce your exposure to germs.
- Avoid touching your face. Many infections start when germs enter the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth. Be mindful of how often you touch your face and sanitise your hands first whenever possible.
- Clean your phone and personal items. Your phone goes everywhere with you- and picks up germs along the way. Wipe it down regularly, along with other high-use items like headphones, sunglasses, and wallets.
- Be cautious in crowded places. Airports, public transport, and tourist attractions can be hotspots for bacteria and viruses. Keep a safe distance where possible, and consider wearing a mask in high-risk areas or during peak travel times.
Maintain Personal Hygiene
- Wash hands before eating and after using public toilets.
- Use sanitiser if soap and water aren’t available.
- Change clothes regularly in hot climates to avoid skin irritation or fungal infections.
- Avoid sharing personal items like towels, razors, or water bottles to reduce the risk of spreading germs.
- Keep your nails trimmed and clean, as bacteria can easily collect underneath them- especially when travelling.
Wash Hands Thoroughly, Not Just Quickly
- Wash hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water.
- Focus on fingertips, under nails, and between fingers.
- Always wash before eating, after using the toilet, after coughing/sneezing, or after touching high-contact surfaces.
Watch What You Eat & Drink
- Be cautious with tap water. In many countries, tap water may contain bacteria or parasites that your body isn’t used to. This can lead to stomach cramps, diarrhoea, or more serious infections.
- Choose food with care. Buffets, street vendors, and local restaurants can all be safe options- but only if proper hygiene is followed. Look for places that cook food fresh and to order, served piping hot. Avoid raw or undercooked foods, especially meat, fish, or eggs. Be wary of salads or fruits that may have been washed in local tap water. Stick to fruit you can peel yourself (like bananas or oranges).
- Pack oral rehydration sachets. Even with precautions, stomach bugs can happen. Keep oral rehydration salts or sachets in your travel kit- these help restore lost fluids and electrolytes quickly and are a must-have for families or those with sensitive stomachs.
Prepare a Mini First Aid Kit
Include:
- Antiseptic cream
- Plasters
- Rehydration sachets
- Paracetamol/ibuprofen
- Antihistamines
Motion sickness tablets
Get Travel Insurance
Even with the best preparation, getting sick while travelling can happen, and that’s where travel insurance becomes essential. Having comprehensive travel insurance means you can access medical care, prescriptions, and emergency treatment without the added stress of unexpected costs. Whether it’s a minor illness or a serious health issue, the right policy ensures you’re protected and supported throughout your trip. Make sure your cover includes medical expenses, medication, and emergency services, especially if you're travelling to a country where healthcare is expensive. For more information on how to choose the right travel insurance, visit the link here.
Download our Travel Hygiene Essentials Checklist so you don’t forget anything on your next trip!
For more on how to stay safe while travelling, visit our Travel Guide Series over on our Health Hub.
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Coda Pharmacy is here to support you every step of the way. From helping you with your travel hygiene, to offering expert advice and delivering your NHS prescriptions free of charge. If you have any questions about what you have read in this article or any of the services that Coda Pharmacy can provide you with, please do not hesitate to reach out and contact us here.