3 Essential Ways To Stay Healthy While Traveling

The new year is upon us, and that means it's time to tackle your travel bucket list. Destinations from South America to Western Europe to islands in the Indian Ocean await, but between you and the bliss of the Maldives is a long international flight. You don't want to get sick on the way to your dream vacation, so make sure to keep these tips in mind during — and before — your stay.

Come stocked and ready.

In your carry-on, make sure to have the essentials: bandages, nasal spray (to increase a dry nose's ability to fight off infectious microbes), a light shawl or blanket, disinfecting wipes, and hand sanitizer with at least 50 percent alcohol. You'll be ready for anything.

Prep your seat on public transportation.

You may look a little high-maintenance, but your immune system will reap the rewards. The crew on many planes and trains don't have time to disinfect the seats between guests, so before you sit down, take advantage of your fully stocked carry-on and wipe down the armrests, headphones, digital screens, tray table, and window shutters.

Strengthen your immune system before the trip.

Herbal supplements, measures like Emergen-C, and probiotics are all good ideas before an important trip. Do some research or consult a physician about which options are right for you, because thinking ahead when it comes to health is sure to pay off.