12 Things Doctors Do When Traveling To Avoid Getting Sick

• 1. Prioritize Hand Hygiene
  Doctors know that hands are one of the primary vectors for transmitting germs. They carry hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol when traveling and wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching public surfaces, before eating, and after restroom use.
• 2. Avoid Touching Their Face
  Touching the eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands is a common way germs enter the body. Healthcare professionals consciously avoid this habit while traveling to reduce infection risk.
• 3. Stay Hydrated
  Dehydration can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to illness. Doctors ensure they drink plenty of safe fluids, often carrying a reusable water bottle and avoiding tap water in areas where quality is questionable.
• 4. Get Adequate Sleep
  Lack of sleep weakens immune defenses. Despite hectic schedules and time zone changes, doctors prioritize sufficient rest to maintain optimal health while on the road.
• 5. Use Probiotics and Maintain Gut Health
  The gastrointestinal tract plays a significant role in immunity. Many doctors take probiotics and eat foods that support gut health during travel to prevent digestive issues and support immune function.
• 6. Pack a Personal First Aid Kit
  Preparedness is key. Doctors bring along essential medications, antiseptics, and supplements to handle minor ailments quickly, preventing complications from small infections or injuries.
• 7. Avoid High-Risk Foods and Drinks
  Eating street food or drinking unfiltered water can expose travelers to bacteria and viruses. Doctors often stick to well-cooked meals, avoid raw produce when sanitation is uncertain, and drink bottled or purified water.
• 8. Wear Masks in Crowded or High-Risk Areas
  Especially in airports, airplanes, or densely populated places, doctors often wear masks to reduce exposure to airborne pathogens, a practice that has gained prominence following the COVID-19 pandemic.
• 9. Practice Respiratory Etiquette
  Doctors cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or the inner elbow when coughing or sneezing. This habit minimizes the spread of germs to others and prevents contamination of surfaces they may touch.
• 10. Maintain Regular Exercise
  Physical activity boosts the immune system. While traveling, doctors try to incorporate exercise such as walking, stretching, or light workouts to stay healthy and manage stress.
• 11. Manage Stress Effectively
  Stress can suppress immune function. Doctors use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness to maintain mental wellbeing and resilience during travel.
• 12. Get Vaccinated and Take Preventive Medications
  Before traveling, healthcare professionals ensure they are up to date on recommended vaccines for their destinations, such as hepatitis A, typhoid, or influenza. They may also take prophylactic medications if traveling to areas with malaria or other endemic diseases.

In summary, doctors apply a combination of practical hygiene practices, lifestyle management, and medical preparation to reduce their risk of illness while traveling. By adopting these habits, travelers can better protect themselves against common infections and enjoy their journeys with greater peace of mind.

Applying these strategies doesn't require medical training but does demand awareness and consistency. Next time you plan a trip, consider how these doctor-approved tips can help you stay healthy and make the most of your travel experience.