Why do I get a cold when I go on vacation?

A weakened immune system “When you travel,” says Dr. Oza, “your usual routines are disrupted. You may not be sleeping as well as you do at home, and your eating habits change when you're away. You may be staying up later, consuming more alcohol and getting less exercise than usual.



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There are multiple factors play into why people get sick after a long flight. The dry air, low pressure, and the low amount of oxygen cause the immune system to weaken and can lead to inflamed sinus cavities.

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Whether you're packing up the family for a road trip or flying around the world, vacations often come with unexpected surprises that can compromise your immune system. When we travel our bodies endure a lot of stress, says Gretchen Genato, a nurse practitioner at Cedars-Sinai's Playa Vista Urgent Care.

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Spray Afrin nasal decongestant spray twice into each nostril one hour prior to flying. Begin taking a decongestant, like Sudafed, one hour before the flight. Both of these medications can be purchased over-the-counter in a drug store.

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You may even be doing more or less physical activity than you normally do at home! These changes, especially sleep deprivation and alcohol consumption, can lead to a weakened immune system that can cause you to have flu-like symptoms after traveling.

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Traveler's diarrhea occurs within 10 days of travel to an area with poor public hygiene. It's the most common illness in travelers. It's caused by drinking water or eating foods that have bacteria, viruses, or parasites. It usually goes away without treatment in a few days.

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It may look bad to take sick time immediately after a vacation, but it is far worse to show up at the office with the flu and potentially spread the disease. See how you're feeling when you get home and call in sick if you need to.

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Symptoms can range from mild to serious, and can include:
  • dizziness.
  • generally feeling unwell and tired.
  • excessive production of saliva.
  • headache.
  • nausea, vomiting.
  • burping.
  • sweating.


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Check with your concierge. Many hotels, particularly those that cater to foreign travelers, offer resources to help sick guests. They can help you find a nearby clinic or offer first aid for injuries. Most hotels have gift shops where you can purchase over-the-counter meds to help relieve your symptoms.

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How to Boost Your Immune System Before, During, and After Travel
  • Get Fully Vaccinated. ...
  • Focus on Eating Healthy, Nutrient-Dense Foods. ...
  • Promote Good Sleep Hygiene. ...
  • Don't Forget to Stay Hydrated. ...
  • Consider Adding Supplements to the Mix. ...
  • Practice Self-Care and Stress Management. ...
  • Break Out the Disinfectant. ...
  • Lay off the Booze.


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