What Is Traveler’s Diarrhea?

Traveler’s diarrhea is a frequent digestive disorder that affects people traveling internationally, especially to areas with poor sanitary conditions or a higher risk of food contamination. This gastrointestinal condition may occur once or multiple times during the trip and, in most cases, lasts between one and seven days.

Although it is generally not considered a serious illness or one that causes major complications, it can be very uncomfortable. Its symptoms can disrupt your travel plans and affect overall well-being.

The most common symptoms of traveler’s diarrhea include watery and loose stools—typically three or more per day—appearing suddenly, often accompanied by an urgent need to use the bathroom, stomach and/or abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and, in some cases, mild fever.

How Can Traveler’s Diarrhea Be Prevented?

It’s not always possible to avoid it completely, but there are preventive measures that can significantly reduce your risk while traveling internationally:

1. Choose freshly cooked food.
   Avoid buffets, street food that has been sitting out, and raw products. The safest option is to eat food cooked right in front of you and served piping hot, minimizing the risk of gastrointestinal infections.

2. Drink only bottled water.
   Avoid tap water, even if it’s labeled safe to drink. Use bottled water for brushing your teeth and washing food as well. Always check that the seal is intact to ensure safety.

3. Be cautious with ice and fresh juices.
   Ice may be made from unsafe water, and natural juices may be prepared with fruit washed in contaminated water. It’s best to avoid them unless you are sure about their preparation, as they are a common source of traveler’s diarrhea.

4. Be careful with raw fruits and vegetables.
   Always choose fruits you can peel yourself or that have been washed with bottled water. Poorly washed raw vegetables are another food risk to avoid while traveling.

5. Avoid unpasteurized milk and dairy products, including ice cream.
   Unpasteurized milk may contain bacteria such as E. Coli or Salmonella, which can disrupt gut flora and increase the risk of digestive infections.

6. Clean bottles or cans before drinking.
   Wipe or rinse them before drinking directly or pouring into a glass. This simple hygiene practice can help remove possible microorganisms from surfaces.

7. Pack a basic travel health kit.
   Before traveling, consult your doctor about what medications to take for mild gastrointestinal symptoms. Include anti-diarrheal medicine, probiotics, oral rehydration salts, and other recommended items for your destination. A good traveler’s diarrhea kit can prevent setbacks.

8. Wash your hands frequently.
   Especially before eating or handling food. If soap and water are not available, always carry hand sanitizer or an alcohol-based solution. Personal hygiene is key to preventing traveler’s diarrhea.

Most cases resolve on their own, but if you experience persistent vomiting, high fever, dehydration, bloody stools, or severe abdominal pain, it’s important to seek medical care. Medical advice is also recommended if symptoms last more than a few days.

At CreuBlanca, we help you enjoy a healthy trip. If you’re planning to travel abroad, consult our digestive health specialists for travel health advice and personalized recommendations based on your destination and personal needs.