When you travel to a place that’s new to you, there are a lot of germs your body isn’t used to. Something like a traveler’s diarrhea or a bad case of food poisoning can quickly turn a dream vacation into a nightmare.
So, what should you eat — and avoid — when you’re far from home? And what should you do if you eat something you shouldn’t have?
What you shouldn’t eat when you travel
Experts agree: Some foods are riskier than others when you’re traveling. Here’s what to do and what to avoid:
Eating and drinking
- Boil it, cook it, peel it or leave it!
- Always wash your hands before eating or preparing food. It is also important to remember to wash your hands after using the bathroom, changing diapers, or having contact with animals or sick people. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available. It’s a good idea to always keep some with you when you travel.
- Only eat foods that are well cooked and served hot. Avoid food served at room temperature.
- Avoid raw or undercooked (rare) meats and fish, including shellfish.
- Only eat fruits and vegetables if you have washed them in safe water or peeled them yourself.
- Avoid salads, or other items that are made with fresh produce.
- Buffets can be breeding grounds for bacteria. Food sitting out at lukewarm temperatures is a red flag.
- Avoid food from street vendors.
- Drink water only if it has been boiled or disinfected or if it is in a commercially sealed bottle.
- Use ice made only from purified or disinfected water.
- Commercially sealed beverages in cans or bottles and served unopened, such as carbonated drinks, and drinks made with boiled water and served steaming hot, such as coffee and tea, are generally safe.
- Brush your teeth with purified or bottled water.
- Avoid unpasteurized dairy products and fruit juices.
Swimming and bathing
- Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated. You can get sick if you inhale or swallow it while bathing, showering or swimming.
- Try to avoid getting water into your mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes) or water in pools or hot tubs, which may not be adequately treated.
What if it’s too late?
I admit, all of this great advice is often too late. How can you say “no” to the allure of space cake? Or resist the smells of spicy street food? So let’s assume you’ve eaten something you shouldn’t have. Don’t panic. Drink lots of water. Dehydration is the biggest risk with food-borne illnesses. Bottled or filtered water — not tap water – is recommended.
If your symptoms persist for more than 48 hours or include severe dehydration, high fever, or blood in your stool, seek medical attention. Don’t wait until it’s an emergency.
Sound advice for your next meal. All kidding aside, be careful what you eat.
I’m ready to work with you to create a unique travel experience based on your travel destination, style, and interests. Please touch base so I may answer any questions you have and provide you with expert travel advice.
Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before travelling.
