Most people credit fall and winter with the cold and flu months, but it’s still possible to get sick during the summer. If you’re traveling, you’re probably excited about your vacation, but you should organize a strategy for staying healthy leading up to your trip and while you’re away. Nothing will ruin your time like getting sick, if you’re even able to go at all.

While you prepare for your trip, make sure to get plenty of rest and avoid getting stressed about your travel arrangements. Work on your preparations a little each day to avoid getting anxious and losing sleep at the last minute, and keep up your strength by committing to your regular routine of exercising and eating healthy. Vitamin supplements can help keep your immune system working right, especially if you’re a little too busy to eat balanced meals every single day. Other important daily habits that are simple but often overlooked include washing your hands frequently, including before and after meals — even if you dine out — cleaning your keyboard and mousepad, particularly if you share one with someone else, and drinking plenty of fluids. Keep your hands away from your nose and mouth, and politely avoid people you know are sick just before you leave.

Once you’re on vacation, continue to wash your hands regularly, and consider packing a small bottle of hand sanitizer in your carry-on so that you can "wash" your hands on the plane if you need to. Whether you’re heading to Europe, the beach or on a cruise, allow yourself to indulge in yummy treats and drinks that you don’t normally let yourself have, but keep things in moderation. Drastically changing your diet will leave you feeling bloated and uncomfortable, at the least. Making sure you eat enough safely prepared fruits and vegetables — as well as the other stuff — will help you maintain your energy and your good health throughout the trip. If you’re visiting a country with questionable produce, it’s best to abstain unless you’re staying at a trusted resort, but take a multivitamin with you so that your body isn’t deprived. Also remember to drink plenty of water, even if you don’t think you’re thirsty. It’s easy to overheat if you’re out in the sun, and if you’re excited and distracted, you might forget to keep drinking. Getting a little exercise will also help your immune system, digestion and overall well-being, so pack a pair of sneakers alongside your bathing suit.