But sometimes they also come home with a terrible cold, digestive problems or other health issues.
But this outcome doesnt have to be inevitable.
It makes sense to take extra precautions we dont do on a daily basis.
Below, Wu and other doctors share the things they always do when they travel to avoid getting sick.
Barbara Bawer, a family medicine physician at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
Depending on where you are going, wearing a mask in crowded places is also important.
She suggested packing at least a couple of masks in case one gets soiled or ruined.
High-quality masks like N95s are your best bet for reducing germ transmission in crowded indoor situations.
Sarah Battistich, an emergency medicine specialist with NYU Langone Healths Virtual Urgent Care.
Now I routinely wear masks in transit, whether or not there are identifiably ill persons around me.
Face coverings can also offer protection in multiple ways.
The mask will keep you from touching your nose and mouth with your hands, saidDr.
Heather Viola, a primary care physician at Mount Sinai Doctors-Ansonia.
Many airlines are giving out alcohol-based disinfectant wipes when you board.
Packing your own alcohol-based disinfecting wipes can also be useful.
I am a big proponent obviously of hand washing, Battistich said.
Maintaining a healthy water intake was a priority for all the doctors who spoke to HuffPost.
I always travel with electrolytes packets of dissolvable electrolytes for water or vitamin water, Viola said.
Taking Immune System Boosters
Viola is also a fan of nasal mists and vitamin C tablets prior to boarding.
This may depend on your city, though, so do some research ahead of time.
When returning home, give yourself some time to re-adjust back to your daily schedule and environment.
Fatigue can impair your immune system, as well as decrease your endurance and negatively impact your mood.
Stress can induce sickness, especially in a new environment.
Researching Travel Vaccines And Medicines
I verify I am up-to-date on vaccines before travel, Wu said.
Flu and COVID-19 are so common among travelers, and even a mild case can ruin a trip.
Focus on eating foods that have a shell and dont need washing and drink bottled water.
Also, use this to brush your teeth.
This can help to avoid travelers diarrhea from developing.
Packing an over-the-counter anti-diarrheal like Imodium is another good idea, especially when traveling internationally.
Keeping Up With Sun Protection
Wear sunscreen daily, Bawer urged.
Sunburn and heat-related illnesses are some of the most easily preventable causes of a ruined vacation, Battistich said.
Dont forget sunscreen, long sleeve shirts linen is great for hot climates and hats.
The bigger and more packable the hat, the better.
Mosquitoes, ticks and other biting bugs can transmit many infections.
Ensure your sunscreen complies withlocal regulationsand check the CDCs recommendations for effective products.
This post originally appeared onHuffPost.
