Getting sick while traveling will always put a damper on the trip. To make matters worse, it seems more likely to become ill while traveling due to all of the people and places you come into contact with.

Luckily, there are many ways travelers can use tools, products and tips to bolster natural defenses and keep from getting ill while away.

The best defense against sickness is leading a healthy lifestyle. Taking on a lot of extra steps when infection is looming is akin to prepping for an important meeting 20 minutes before. Exercise, balanced meals and getting enough rest are all pillars of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

While these steps can keep you healthy regularly, there are always additional steps travelers can take once the trip is under way.

Packing portable, alcohol-based hand sanitizer is a must for travelers who might not be able to wash their hands regularly. Hand sanitizer can be especially helpful when eating on the plain, train or automobile is the only option.

Regularly and frequently washing your hands should be another no-brainer for travelers. A study from 2016 argues hand washing is the most cost-effective investment to public health possible as it halts the spread of some diseases.

If the trip in question is happening around flu season, it is imperative for travelers to get a shot before departure. Flu shots are recommended for everyone, traveler or not, but that shot may just be the difference between an enjoyable vacation and one spent in the hotel bed.

If these methods fail, over-the-counter medicines can provide the relief you need to finish the important meetings or attractions and get home in one piece.