Travel is an exciting way to explore new destinations, connect with loved ones, and experience different cultures. However, travelling also increases exposure to viruses and infectious diseases due to crowded airports, public transportation, shared accommodations, and varying sanitation standards. For health-conscious travelers, the key is not to avoid travel entirely – but to travel smart.

This health portal guide provides 10 practical, evidence-based tips to help you protect yourself from viruses while travelling, including vaccination guidance, hygiene practices, and preventive strategies for common travel-related infections.

Why Virus Protection Matters When Travelling

Travel exposes you to a variety of environments and people, which increases the risk of contracting respiratory, gastrointestinal, and mosquito-borne infections. While many travel-related illnesses are mild, some can become serious, especially for children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic health conditions. Being prepared can reduce your risk and help you enjoy a safer trip.

1. Stay Updated with Recommended Vaccinations

Vaccinations That Protect Travellers

Before travelling, consult a healthcare provider or travel clinic to confirm which vaccinations are recommended or required for your destination. Some vaccines require multiple doses or need to be administered weeks in advance.

Common travel-related vaccines include:

• Influenza (seasonal flu)
• COVID-19 booster
• Hepatitis A and B
• Typhoid
• Yellow fever (required for certain countries)
• Rabies (for high-risk destinations)

Vaccinations remain one of the most effective ways to prevent serious illness while travelling.

2. Practice Proper Hand Hygiene

Hand Washing and Sanitizing

Hand hygiene is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent virus transmission.

Key hand hygiene practices include:

• Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Using alcohol-based hand sanitiser (minimum 60% alcohol) when soap is unavailable
• Sanitising hands after touching shared surfaces such as handrails, elevator buttons, and airplane tray tables
• Carry a small hand sanitiser bottle in your carry-on bag for easy access.

3. Wear a Mask in High-Risk Settings

When Mask Use Is Recommended

Mask guidelines vary by destination and situation, but wearing a mask can reduce exposure to respiratory viruses, including influenza and COVID-19.

Consider wearing a mask in:

• Airports and airplanes
• Public transport
• Crowded tourist attractions
• Healthcare facilities

Mask use is especially recommended for individuals with weakened immune systems.

4. Avoid Touching Your Face

Reduce Viral Entry Points

Viruses can enter the body through the eyes, nose, and mouth. Avoid touching your face, especially after handling shared items like luggage handles, payment terminals, or public door handles. If you must touch your face, sanitise your hands first.

5. Choose Clean and Well-Ventilated Accommodation

Accommodation Hygiene Tips

Select accommodations that prioritise cleanliness and ventilation. Good airflow can reduce the concentration of airborne viruses.

Look for:

• Properties with high hygiene ratings and recent reviews
• Rooms with good ventilation or open windows
• Clean bedding and well-maintained facilities

Using disinfectant wipes on high-touch surfaces like remote controls and door handles can provide added protection.

6. Follow Food and Water Safety Guidelines

Prevent Gastrointestinal Illness

Food and water-borne infections are common causes of travel-related illness. Protect your digestive health by following these precautions:

• Drink bottled or filtered water if local water safety is uncertain
• Avoid raw or undercooked foods
• Eat at reputable restaurants
• Wash or sanitise hands before meals

If you experience severe or persistent diarrhea, seek medical advice promptly.

7. Protect Against Mosquito-Borne Viruses

Effective Mosquito Protection

In tropical regions, mosquito-borne viruses such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya can pose significant risks.

Protect yourself by:

• Using insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin
• Wearing long sleeves and pants in high-risk areas
• Staying in accommodations with screens or air conditioning
• Avoiding stagnant water and mosquito breeding sites

Mosquito protection is crucial, especially in regions where outbreaks occur frequently.

8. Support Your Immune System

Health Habits That Reduce Infection Risk

A strong immune system helps your body fight infections more effectively. Before and during travel, focus on:

• Getting adequate sleep
• Staying hydrated
• Eating balanced meals
• Managing stress and pacing your itinerary

Avoid over-scheduling to prevent fatigue, which can weaken immunity.

9. Pack a Travel Health Kit

What to Include in Your Travel Health Kit

A travel health kit can help you manage mild symptoms early and reduce the need for medical care abroad.

Suggested items:

• Hand sanitiser and disinfectant wipes
• Face masks
• Fever reducers and pain relievers
• Thermometer
• Insect repellent
• Oral rehydration salts
• Basic first-aid supplies

Being prepared helps you respond quickly if symptoms appear.

10. Know When to Seek Medical Care

Recognise Warning Signs

If you develop symptoms such as high fever, persistent cough, severe diarrhea, or unexplained rashes, seek medical attention promptly. Early treatment can prevent complications and reduce transmission risk.

Additional safety tips:

• Identify the nearest medical facility at your destination
• Carry travel insurance that covers medical care
• Follow local public health guidelines if you become unwell

Extra Travel Smart Tips for Virus Protection

• Avoid travel if you feel unwell
• Maintain physical distancing when possible
• Disinfect frequently used items like your phone
• Follow local health advisories and travel alerts

Small habits can have a big impact on your overall health during travel.

Sources:

• https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/living-well/how-to-stay-healthy-while-traveling-tips-for-flights-cruises-and-road-trips/
• Felkai,P. P. (2021). How to Travel After the COVID-19 Pandemic?. International Journal of Travel Medicine and Global Health, 9(1), 1-3. doi: 10.34172/ijtmgh.2021.01. https://www.ijtmgh.com/article_119282.html
• https://health.clevelandclinic.org/vaccine-to-travel