How to Travel This Holiday Season Without Getting Sick

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My husband calls me "iron guts."

Not because I have six pack abs (sigh), but because I traveled through India for three months and didn't get sick. No Delhi belly. No cold. No flu. Nothing but a clean bill of health.

How do I travel without getting sick? It's simple. I take care of myself and follow a few tricks — the same tricks that you can (and should) follow this holiday season when you travel. (See also: Top Travel Reward Credit Cards)

Drink Water

Staying hydrated is important to your overall health. If you're flying, bring a water bottle with you to the airport. You can drink it during check in, carry the empty bottle through security, and fill it up before the flight. Plus, a lot of airports now have water filtration systems. (See also: Ultimate Guide to Flying During the Holidays)

Clip Your Nails

Long fingernails are a breeding ground for bacteria and germs. And what's worse… many people bite their nails when they're stressed under the pressure of the holidays and traveling. So keep those nails short, and keep your health.

Blow Your Nose

Even if you don't have a runny nose, be sure to blow your nose throughout the day to clear any airborne germs. A good way to remember is to blow your nose after every meal or snack. And pocket-sized tissue packets are great for long travel days.

Sanitize

Highly used surfaces can easily collect germs and bacteria. Carry a travel-sized hand sanitizer and wipes with you to clean your hands regularly and surface areas (armrests, door handles, etc.). Don't forget to periodically wipe down your phone, keyboard, and other handheld devices.

Wash Your Hands

Frequently wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds. A trick is to list the ABCs or sing your favorite holiday carol while you wash.

Take Vitamins

Vitamins travel well and can help fight colds and flus and boost your immune system. According to WebMD, you should consider the following supplements: Vitamin C, Echinacea, Zinc, Elderberry, Garlic, Ginseng, and Andrographis.

Eat Well

With endless sweet treats and food, it's easy to let yourself go during the holidays. Try to squeeze in some veggies and healthier items into your diet.

Use Disposable Items

Try to use disposable products for any items that touch your mouth or hands multiple times. For example, instead of using a coffee mug, use a recyclable disposable cup. (See also: When You Should Buy Disposable)

Skip the Airline Blankets and Pillows

It's been rumored (again) that airlines don't wash pillows and blankets after every flight. Bring your own or skip using these items to avoid unnecessary contact with germs.

Don't Touch Your Face

While this tip might seem obvious, it can be challenging for people during travel. Keep your fingers away from your mouth and eyes. If you do need to touch your face, wash your hands thoroughly beforehand.

Avoid Alcohol

Holiday travel is stressful and many people chose to drink to help deal with the stress. Be forewarned that alcohol can dehydrate you and weaken your immune system.

Dress in Layers and Stay Warm

Airplanes are notorious for having extreme changes in temperature. One minute, it's 90 degrees. Then fast forward thirty minutes and it's freezing. Dress in layers and have a warm top layer readily accessible on the plane. (See also: 6 Things That'll Keep You Sane on a Plane)

Wear a Scarf

I always wear a scarf when traveling. Not only do they keep you warm, they can be used to cover questionable surfaces, block the light to help you sleep, cover your hands when opening dirty door handles, and the list goes on.

Listen to Your Body

If you feel a cold or flu coming on, get plenty of rest, take your vitamins, and eat well. Pack a few cough drops and cold/flu medicine gel capsules for emergency situations. If you do get sick, you won't have the added stress of finding and going to a pharmacy. (See also: Frugal Ways to Treat a Cold)

So take care of yourself this holiday season and follow these simple tricks.

What tips do you have for maintaining your health when you travel? Leave a comment below.

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