There's nothing quite as frustrating as falling sick right before a much-anticipated trip. It can throw all your carefully laid plans out the window, leaving you feeling discouraged, drained, and unable to enjoy the experience you've been looking forward to fully. 😕

In this article, we'll explore the reasons behind this and offer tips for protecting yourself from such situations:

Stress and Anxiety:

One reason that many people fall sick before travelling is simply that they are stressed. Even if you're excited about your trip, the preparations involved can be overwhelming. You may be rushing around trying to get everything done, from packing your bags to arranging for someone to take care of your pets while you're away. On top of that, you may be worried about potential travel delays, lost luggage, or other unexpected complications.

All this stress might weaken your immune system and make you more exposed to sickness. Chronic stress, according to research ( 1 ), can cause inflammation and a reduced immune system, increasing the risk of infection. This is true, especially if you need sufficient sleep or consume a healthy diet, frequently neglected when stressed and rushed. 😟

Prevention tip💡:

To combat stress, it's important to take time for self-care in the days leading up to your trip. This might include taking a relaxing bath, practicing meditation or yoga, or simply taking a few deep breaths to calm your nerves. It is also advisable to get sufficient sleep, as not getting enough sleep can weaken your body's immune system and leave you with sickness.

Changing Routine:

Another factor contributing to falling sick before travelling is a change in routine. When travelling, you're often exposed throwing off your body's natural rhythms and making to new environments, foods, and schedules, which can drop your body's natural rhythms and make you more prone to illness. However, if you go to a foreign time zone, your body may struggle to adapt to the new environment, schedule, causing your immune system to weaken. 😰 

Prevention tip 💡:

To prepare for a change in routine, it's very important to ensure you're taking care of yourself in the days leading up to your trip. This might include getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables. It's also a good idea to start adjusting your sleep schedule a few days before your trip, so your body can get used to the new time zone.

Exposure to Germs:

Finally, exposure to germs is another common reason people fall sick before travelling. When travelling, you are often in close quarters with other people, whether on a plane, train, or bus. This increased exposure to other people can make catching a cold, the flu, or other contagious illnesses quickly. Additionally, you're often disclosed to new environments, such as hotels or rental properties, which may need to be cleaner and sanitary than your own home. 😷

Prevention tip💡:

To reduce your exposure to germs, it's important to take some standard precautions. This might include washing your hands frequently, avoiding touching your face, and carrying hand sanitizer. It's also a good idea to avoid contact with people who are visibly ill, to avoid sharing food or drinks with others, consider wearing a mask, especially if you're close to other passengers, to get necessary vaccinations or medications before you travel, especially if you're going to a region where certain illnesses are common. Finally, it's essential to be prepared for the possibility of falling sick while traveling. This means packing a small travel first aid kit with over-the-counter medications, such as pain relievers, cough drops, and cold medicine. You should also bring a thermometer if you need to monitor your temperature. 

Conclusion:

Falling sick right before traveling can be a frustrating and disappointing experience, but it's common. By understanding some of the factors that can contribute to illness before a trip, you can take steps to protect your health and ensure a happy and healthy travel experience. By managing stress, preparing for a change in routine, and taking precautions to reduce exposure to germs, you can set yourself up for success on your next adventure. Remember, a little bit of preparation and self-care can go a long way toward ensuring a happy and healthy trip. 😄✌️