Survive Getting Sick While Traveling

No one dreams of getting ill while on holiday. But catching a bug or coming down with the flu doesn’t have to mean the end of good times. Follow our tips to get better in no time.

Prep Before Going

Don’t leave home without common over-the-counter meds stashed in your bag. For less-serious ailments, these might do the trick. A first-aid kit, antibiotic cream, ibuprofen, antihistamines and Imodium can bail you out of icky medical situations. Don’t forget your travel insurance, either. For more serious problems, it can literally be a lifesaver, particularly if you’re in a location with sub-standard medical care.

Get a Doctor’s Note

Getting prescriptions for common antibiotics from your doctor at home before leaving is always a good idea. Ask for a prescription for bacterial infections (Cipro is a common one) and diarrhea. Also, if you’re allergic to any medicines, like penicillin, it’s a good idea to ask your doctor to provide the generic name of any drugs you might need to purchase while on the road.

Seek Professional Help

In many countries, simply visiting the pharmacy can be enough for common ailments. If you’re in a country where English isn’t widely spoken, look up the translation of your symptoms before visiting (thank you, Google Translate). This will save you a lot of frustration and time.

Rest Up

While taking a few days to rest might feel like a cop-out, you’ll get more out of your travels by giving your body time to recover. And, if you’re contagious, your travel companions will thank you, too! Use the time to relax and unwind.