Take care in what you eat and drink

• If you don't know, assume the water is not safe; this includes ice and some fruit juice.
  
• Be aware water bottles can be re-filled with tap water…check the seal. Brush your teeth with bottled water.
  
• Be sure milk is pasteurised or boiled.
  
• 'If you can cook it, boil it or peel it, you can eat it...otherwise forget it'
  
• Try to keep your diet well balanced and take vitamin tablets to supplement

Hygiene

• Body and hair
  
• Clothes
  
• Dishes
• All you need is a bar of soap!
  
• Toothbrush and toothpaste, soap, deodorant, condoms, medical kit…and you should be fine!
  
• Consider the dry with air hand antiseptic.

Sex Issues

• Man or women always bring condoms; and enough to last your trip, the quality in some countries are not always as high as the UK.
• Sexually transmitted diseases require medical attention, which should be sought as soon as possible. Symptoms include a smelly discharge, painful intercourse and sometimes a burning sensation when urinating. Both sexual partners must be treated.

Female Hygiene

• Irregular menstruation is a very common among women travellers.
• It is possible to suppress menstruation by taking the pill continuously, without the usual seven-day break in between packets. Remember you will need extra packets to fill the extra days.
• Tampons and sanitary towels are unobtainable in many countries.
  
• Be sensitive to the cultural and religious attitudes towards menstruation. Discreet use of and disposal of sanitary towels and tampons is the easiest method.
  
• Fungal infections can be more prevalent in hot climates, loose clothing and cotton underwear can help prevent infection. Infections can be treated with vinegar or with yoghurt when creams are not available.
  
• Should you need medical treatment whilst you are away an embassy or 5 star hotel should be able to advise on were best to go.
  
• Always bring a fungal cream with you.
  

Want to know more?

Planet Wise travel safety training courses are packed with lots more helpful advice and tips to make sure your trip is a safe and enjoyable one. Plus you'll get to share ideas with fellow travellers and pick the brains of the Planet Wise team of experienced travel experts.