Health and Safety FAQs

Staying healthy while traveling requires good hygiene, proper rest, and smart dietary choices. While traveling, you'll come in contact with hundreds, maybe even thousands, of different people at the airport, inside the airplane, and after you've reached your destination, putting you at risk for exposure to viruses. We recommend the following tips to avoid getting sick:

• Wear a Mask When Necessary
• Wash Your Hands Frequently
• Drink Bottled or Purified Water
• Prioritize Sleep
• Wipe Down High-Touch Surfaces

Knowing how to pack a travel health kit will ensure you're better prepared if a health issue arises during your trip. Start with a sturdy, water-resistant bag. Include basic first-aid items like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, and blister pads. Add over-the-counter remedies for common travel ailments, such as pain relievers, antacids, motion sickness pills, and anti-diarrheal medication. Do not forget to pack insect repellent and a broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Yes, you should always bring enough of your regular prescription medications to last your entire trip, plus a few extra days' supply in case of unexpected delays. Keep these medications in their original, clearly labeled pharmacy bottles. Pack them in your carry-on luggage so you do not lose them if your checked bags are delayed. We also recommend carrying a physical copy of your prescriptions and a doctor's note explaining your need for the medication, especially when crossing international borders.

Travel insurance is always recommended when traveling abroad. Understanding why travel insurance is required by some tour operators and highly recommended by travel experts is crucial. It covers unexpected expenses before and during your vacation dates:

• Medical and Dental Expenses Including Hospital Stays, Doctor Visits, and Prescription Drugs Required During the Trip
• Non-Medical Trip Disruptions, Such as Trip Cancellations, Delayed Flights, and Lost or Stolen Luggage

Close quarters and shared dining facilities make hygiene a top priority at sea. To prevent illness while on a cruise ship, wash your hands thoroughly before every meal and after returning to the ship from a port visit. Use the hand sanitizing stations located outside dining rooms and near elevators. Avoid using public restrooms on the ship if your cabin is nearby. If you start feeling unwell, we recommend isolating yourself in the cabin and contacting the onboard medical team. They can provide medication and recommend treatment.

Safety during port visits varies widely depending on the destination and the activity. Prioritizing travel safety for port excursions involves doing some research before you dock. Book excursions through the cruise line or reputable, highly-rated local operators. Pay attention to local travel advisories and weather conditions, as the weather can change dramatically in port-side areas.

Stay with your group and listen carefully to your guide's instructions. Wear appropriate footwear to avoid trips and falls, especially when exploring uneven terrain or ancient ruins. Keep your valuables secure in a money belt or a cross-body bag kept in front of you. Stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade if you are touring in a hot climate. If an activity feels unsafe or beyond your physical capabilities, do not be afraid to opt out.

When reviewing travel tips for children with health risks, always consult their pediatrician before booking the trip. Get medical clearance and ask for advice on managing their specific condition in different climates or altitudes. Locate the nearest pediatric hospitals or clinics at your destination in advance. Keep their essential medical supplies, emergency action plans, and allergy auto-injectors on hand at all times.

Schedule a pre-travel checkup for the whole family to ensure everyone is healthy and up to date on routine vaccines. Research the health infrastructure of your destination so you know exactly where to go if a family member gets hurt. Teach children basic travel hygiene, like keeping their hands away from their faces and using hand sanitizer. Assign one adult to carry the comprehensive family health kit during daily outings.