Many travelers are wondering how they can be more sanitary while traveling the world. We’re here to help.Whether there’s a pandemic or not, it’s always a good idea to practice good hygiene and maintain your overall health to protect yourself and others around you.

Here are a few recommendations for maintaining your hygiene while traveling the world.

1. Wash your hands, wipe down your screens, and clean high-traffic surfaces.

Seems simple enough? The key to making sure you do these things regularly is to be stocked with supplies to help you maintain those habits while traveling. Sanitizers, disinfectant wipes, and natural cleaners placed strategically in your suitcase or pack will help remind you to wipe down your screens (phones and laptops) or to simply sanitize your hands before eating.

2. Get your vaccines updated.

Different countries will require different vaccines, so make sure to check with that country’s official travel website, or check the C.D.C and W.H.O. for official listings of which vaccines you will need when traveling there. Flu shots will help reduce your risk of getting certain illnesses and will help reduce the risk for others around you as well.

3. Minimize your exposure to people while sick.

If you’re sick, make sure you’re booking single room hostels, and make sure you’re taking extra care to wipe down any high traffic surfaces before and after you use them - such as the handle on a bathroom sink. Disinfectant wipes can help do the trick! Also make sure to let your doctor know you’re sick, so that you can get recommendations directly from a professional.

4. Eat nutrient-heavy foods, drink lots of water, sleep more.

These three things are always a good idea regardless of when you’re traveling, or where you’re traveling to. Eating nutrient-heavy foods will help keep your body strong when it is particularly vulnerable while traveling in new environments. Drinking lots of water will help flush your system of toxins more often. And finally, sleeping more will help keep any travel exhaustion or stress at bay.

For more information on preventative measures you can take to stay health, please check out the World Health Organization or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Wherever you might be traveling to next, make sure to check with your doctor and cross-reference with the CDC and WHO to understand what your health risks are. Don’t feel shy to ask your doctor or a medical professional about how you can reduce your risk of illnesses while traveling! They’re there to help and offer recommendations and you’re more likely going to feel more confident - and less stressed - in understanding any situations or risks that may lie ahead.