Going on a trip—whether for vacation, a mission trip, or ministry—can be invigorating and spiritually rewarding. But if you’ve ever come down with a bug mid-journey, you know how quickly it can derail your plans. Between jet lag, unfamiliar food, and exposure to new environments, your immune system can take a hit if you’re not prepared.
That’s why we turned to you, our experienced and well-traveled clients, for the best health tips to keep from getting sick while traveling. These are your proven, go-to strategies for staying healthy on the road—and we’re excited to share them here.
Keep the stomach bug AWAY!
No one wants to be stuck dealing with “Montezuma’s revenge.” Whether at home or abroad, gastrointestinal issues can be miserable and ruin a good trip. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Skip the street food, even if it looks cooked. Contamination can still occur after cooking.
- Only eat foods that are cooked or that you peel yourself. Avoid raw salads, pre-cut fruit, or any food washed in local water.
- Use only sealed bottled water—not just for drinking, but for brushing your teeth and rinsing your mouth.
- Say no to ice, even on flights. Ice is often made from untreated tap water.
- Be cautious in the shower—don’t let local water into your mouth, nose, or eyes.
And if you do end up with an upset stomach?
- Activated charcoal is your best friend. It absorbs toxins and helps settle GI issues quickly. Always travel with it.
- No charcoal? Try Coke. One client shared: “I forgot my charcoal in Belize and got sick from the water. I drank a Coke, and it knocked out whatever was causing the problem!”
Sanitize!
It goes without saying that washing hands frequently helps prevent a lot of illnesses. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after using the bathrooms and before any meals. Also use it if you’ve been using public transportation.
Using spray bottles of hypochlorous acid to spray surfaces will quickly and safely sanitize any area. Areas like airplane armrest, tray tables and seatbelts don’t sanitized that well by the cleaning crew. Spray or bring alcohol wipes to clean them.
Boosting your Immune System
Your immune system is your best defense while traveling. Here are the top supplement and natural remedies our clients swear by:
- Vitamin D: Keep levels in the 50–75 ng/mL range for optimal immune resilience.
- Vitamin C: Take 1000 mg daily—some even dissolve tablets in water to sip throughout the day.
- Zinc: A daily zinc supplement (with food!) supports your immune defenses.
- Thieves Essential Oil: A drop or two under the tongue twice daily helps during exposure to coughing and sneezing.
- Oregano Oil: Another powerful antimicrobial, packed with antioxidants.
- Gargle with salt water morning and night. It kills viruses before they move deeper into your system.
- Use a nasal spray with xylitol (like Xlear) to disinfect nasal passages—especially after flights or crowded places.
- For long flights (>10 hrs): Take 81 mg baby aspirin daily for a week before travel to reduce the risk of blood clots (talk to your doctor first).
Living Out the NEWSTART Lifestyle While Traveling
Supporting your body holistically doesn’t stop when you leave home. One of the most effective long-term immune-building strategies is following the NEWSTART lifestyle—even on the road.
- N – Nutrition: Stick to whole food, plant-based meals. Limit processed foods and sugar.
- E – Exercise: Get movement in whenever possible—walk through the airport, stretch in your hotel room.
- W – Water: Drink at least ½ your body weight in ounces of clean water daily.
- S – Sunshine: Natural sunlight helps regulate your sleep and supports vitamin D production.
- T – Temperance: Moderation matters. Even healthy things can be overdone.
- A – Air: Fresh air is healing. Step outside and breathe deeply.
- R – Rest: Prioritize regular sleep hours, even if you’re changing time zones.
- T – Trust in the Creator: Begin and end your day with prayer. Ask God to protect your health and guide your journey.
Final Thoughts
Health is a gift—and one that requires both stewardship and spiritual surrender. Travel doesn’t have to come with illness. With practical preparation and trust in God, you can serve, explore, and enjoy your trip with strength and peace.
The Lord has given us powerful tools—like nutrition, sunlight, rest, and natural remedies—to protect and strengthen us. Combine that with prayer and faith, and you’re equipped for the road ahead.
“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.”
3 John 1:2
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