Nothing derails a trip faster than getting sick on the road. And in many cases, it’s in the first 24 to 48 hours when people make crucial mistakes.

You’ve heard the old cliché about not drinking the water.

But people think they’re playing it safe by ordering a soda…with ice!

Guess what, guys? More often than not, those ice cubes are made with the local water.

The other big no-no that people forget about? Brushing your teeth with tap water.

Now, I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: When it comes to food, boil it, bottle it, peel it, cook it, or forget it.

That’s easy enough to remember when dealing with street food.

But even in a first-class hotel or restaurant, that doesn’t necessarily mean the preparation is first class.

It’s always a good idea to carry Imodium and antibiotics … just in case.

As for the bigger issues, like preventing endemic diseases, I can’t stress enough how important it is to check with your doctor.

I’ve seen more people have to be airlifted out from the side effects of Lariam than malaria itself.

But the good news is there are other options out there, so never assume and always talk to an expert.

Get more help with the Travel Health & Fitness section.

And get more of our Daily Travel Tips here.