What to Pack

GloboTreks notes that the first step in preventing sickness while traveling is to be prepared. This means packing all of the necessary items in your suitcase so that you're ready for anything. Here's a list of must-haves:

Camping Essentials for Health and Safety
First-Aid Kit: including bandages, ointment, pain relievers, and more
Face Masks: for protection against airborne particles
Thermometer: to monitor your temperature and detect fever
Antibacterial Wipes or Hand Sanitizer: for keeping hands and surfaces clean
Antibacterial Soap: for washing hands thoroughly
Antacid Tablets: for relief from heartburn or indigestion
Decongestant: for relief from nasal congestion
Cough Drops: for relief from sore throat and cough

Of course, this list will vary depending on your specific needs. For example, if you have allergies, be sure to pack your allergy medication. If you have asthma, bring your inhaler. The key is to think about what you might need before you leave so that you're not scrambling to find a pharmacy in a foreign country.

Preparations

In addition to packing the right items, there are also some preparations you should make before your trip. First, as DocDoc points out, be sure to see your doctor for a checkup and get any necessary vaccinations at least four weeks before your departure date. This will help ensure that you're in tip-top shape before you even leave home.

Second, make digital scans of all of your important documents — passport, driver's license, birth certificate, insurance cards, etc. Ideally, you can quickly learn to use a PDF editor online so you can save all the information in one PDF file, which you can edit with this free tool if necessary, then save to your phone. That way, if you lose hard copies while you're away, you'll have backups. Finally, research the medical facilities near your destination so that you know where to go if you do get sick while traveling.

Staying Healthy While You Travel

The best way to avoid getting sick while traveling is to take some proactive steps to stay healthy in the first place. Here are a few tips:

Tips for Staying Healthy (CamperRules)
1. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and refill it often.
2. Wash your hands often and use hand sanitizer when soap and water aren't available. Bring a small bottle of hand sanitizer with you on your camping trip.
3. Avoid touching your face. Keep a pack of tissues or wipes handy to help you resist the urge to touch your face.
4. Don't share drinks or food with others. Bring your own food and drinks, and avoid sharing utensils or plates with others.
5. Eat healthy foods and avoid processed snacks. Pack fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, and other healthy snacks to keep your energy levels up.
6. Get plenty of rest and exercise. Set up a comfortable sleeping area and plan activities that get your body moving, like hiking or swimming.
7. Protect your skin from the sun. Bring sunscreen and a hat and also long-sleeved clothing to protect your skin from those harmful UV rays.
8. Pack a first aid kit. Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you need.
9. Follow campground rules and guidelines. Respect wildlife, dispose of trash properly, and avoid making excessive noise.
10. Be prepared for emergencies. Carry a fully charged phone and a map of the area, and let someone know where you're going and when you'll be back.

If You Do Get Sick

Despite taking all of the necessary precautions, sometimes people still get sick while they're traveling. If this happens to you, try to rest as much as possible and drink lots of fluids. If your symptoms are mild and manageable, over-the-counter medication should be enough to help you feel better. If you have signed up for a Medical Expense Reimbursement Plan (MERP) with your employer, many items are covered including OTC meds, face masks, inhalers, and prescription medication, so be sure to save your receipts for reimbursement.

If your symptoms are getting worse or aren't improving after a day or more, it is time to seek professional help from a local doctor or hospital. Be sure to bring along your insurance information and any other important documents so that they can provide you with the best possible care. And finally, don't forget to relax and enjoy the rest of your trip! A little sickness doesn't have to ruin everything.