One problem with going on a cruise is that you are on a ship with thousands of passengers, which increases the risk of getting sick. Whether it’s a cold, stomach bug, or something more serious, no one wants to spend their vacation feeling under the weather. Thankfully, you can significantly reduce your chances of getting sick while cruising with extra precaution and a few healthy habits. Here are practical tips to stay healthy and enjoy your vacation to the fullest!
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Disinfecting Wipes Are Your Best Friend
When you first board the ship, make sure to wipe down high-touch areas in your cabin. Don’t assume that the cabin steward has thoroughly sanitized everything—sometimes, there simply isn’t enough time between sailings for a deep clean. Use Lysol wipes to disinfect door handles, the remote control, light switches, desk surfaces, cabin phone, drawer handles, and bathroom counters. I even keep a pack of travel wipes in my bag for public spaces, like wiping down a slot machine before playing.
Take Immune-Boosting Vitamins
Take vitamin C, zinc, and vitamin D before and while on the ship to start your cruise with a strong immune system. I swear by Airborne—it’s packed with all the immune-boosting nutrients you need and comes in a delicious powdered drink form. Keep taking it throughout your cruise to stay healthy.
Keep Hand Sanitizer Handy
Even though cruise ships have hand sanitizing stations, it’s best to have your own. Buy a small bottle of hand sanitizer to use after touching handrails or elevator buttons. Keep it in your bag or pocket for quick access. I like these travel hand sanitizers with jelly wrap to attach to bags.
Avoid the Elevators
If the elevator is crowded, skip it and take the stairs instead. Not only will this help you avoid being in a crowded space with potentially sick passengers, but it’s also a good way to get extra exercise on board.
Wash Your Hands Frequently
While hand sanitizer can kill some germs, washing your hands with soap and water is still best. Hand sanitizer isn’t effective against norovirus, a common cruise-related illness. So, whenever possible, it’s best to wash your hands. The best part is the cruise ship has made handwashing more accessible by adding handwashing stations outside buffets.
Skip the Buffet
The communal nature of buffets makes them a hotbed for germs, as shared serving utensils and crowded spaces increase the risk of transmission. If you’re prone to getting sick, it’s better to skip the buffet and eat at the main dining room or room service instead. If you love the buffet and don’t want to skip it, it’s best to go during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds.
Sanitize Your Hands at the Buffet
If you do enjoy the buffet, make it a habit to wash or sanitize your hands after touching any communal items, like serving utensils. Even after touching the buttons on the drink machines or soft serve machines, make sure you sanitize your hands afterward. It’s a small hassle that could save you from catching something on board. If you don’t want to keep sanitizing your hands, wear gloves!
Don’t Touch Your Face
This one’s simple but effective—avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth. You’d be surprised how often we unconsciously touch our faces, which is a prime way for germs to enter your system. If you’re cruising with kids, tell them to touch their faces!
Wear a Mask in Crowded Spaces
To protect yourself from airborne illnesses, it’s safest to wear a mask in crowded places, such as theaters, shore excursion buses, and the casino. Even on the plane ride to your cruise, a mask can help prevent you from picking up germs from others. Check out 16 Cruise Ports you Can Explore without Booking Shore Excursions
Get Your Vaccinations
Make sure that all your vaccinations, including the flu shot, are up to date before your cruise. Plan ahead and get your vaccines well in advance of your cruise, since your immune system needs time to produce antibodies. For example, flu shots typically takes about 2 weeks to become fully effective. Check out 13 Safety Tips at Cruise Ports You Need to Know About
Rest Up Before Your Cruise
It is important to be well-rested before you embark on your cruise. A tired body is more susceptible to illness, so make sure you’re in top shape and ready to take on your vacation without the added stress of a weakened immune system. Check out What are the Best Cabin Locations on a Cruise Ship?
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is key! Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout your cruise to stay hydrated, especially after spending time in the sun or consuming alcohol. Dehydration can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to illness. Check out Pros and Cons of Sailing on a Big Cruise Ship vs a Small Cruise Ship
Bring Your Own Pillowcase
This may sound a little unconventional, but I always bring my own pillowcase when cruising. It’s a simple way to ensure you’re sleeping on a clean surface, and it’s also not a hassle since pillowcases are light and easy to pack. Check out 14 Best and Worst Foods to Eat on Cruises
Avoid Public Restrooms
Public restrooms on a cruise can be germ hotspots. Whenever possible, avoid the public restrooms on cruise ships. It’s best to go back to your cabin to use the bathroom. It’s a simple step to reduce your exposure to germs on board. Check out 8 Important Things to Do to Keep Your Luggage Safe on a Cruise
Air Out Your Cabin
If you’re staying in a balcony cabin, let the fresh air in by opening the balcony doors when you first board. It’s a good way to air out the space and improve ventilation. Plus, it gives you a chance to enjoy some sea breeze! Check out 10 Most Annoying People at a Cruise Buffet You’ll Want to Avoid
Avoid Overcrowded Areas
Avoid crowded spaces during onboard activities. If a trivia session or gift shop raffle is packed, skip it or wear a mask for added protection. To stay safe, choose onboard activities that take place in the outdoor deck or in less crowded venues. Check out 16 Cruise Packing Mistakes You’ll Regret Making
Stay Away from Sick Passengers
If you notice people coughing or sneezing a lot in an activity or show, do your best to avoid them. If you can, sit farther away or put on a mask. The last thing you want is to be stuck in a small, enclosed area with sick passengers. Check out 11 Fun Things to Pack on Your Next Cruise
Consider Avoiding the Kids Club
While this may be a challenge for families, it’s worth considering skipping the kids club to reduce exposure to germs. Kids can easily catch something from others in the club, and if you want to be extra cautious, it may be best to avoid it. Check out 18 Worst Things that Can Ruin Your Cruise Vacation