Traveling is an exciting experience that opens us up to new cultures, cuisines, and experiences. It’s a time to step out of our comfort zone and try new things.
However, when it comes to drinks, it’s important to be cautious and mindful of what we consume. While enjoying local drinks can be a fun part of traveling, there are certain drinks that are best avoided due to their potential health risks. Here are some drinks to avoid while traveling.
Tap Water
Tap water is a common source of illness while traveling. It may contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can cause gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps.
The quality of tap water varies greatly from country to country and even within the same country, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid drinking tap water altogether. Instead, opt for bottled water or water that has been filtered and purified.
UHC Communications/ Shutterstock | Stay safe and healthy while travelling by being mindful of what you drink
Unpasteurized Milk
In some countries, unpasteurized milk is commonly consumed. While it may be a staple in the local diet, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with drinking unpasteurized milk. Unpasteurized milk may contain harmful bacteria such as E. coli, salmonella, and listeria, which can cause serious illness. If you’re unsure whether the milk you’re drinking is pasteurized, it’s best to avoid it.
Fruit Juices From Street Vendors
While freshly squeezed fruit juices from street vendors may seem like a healthy and refreshing option, they can be a source of illness. The equipment used to make these juices may not have been properly sanitized, and the fruits may not have been washed properly.
This can lead to contamination by harmful bacteria and parasites that can cause illness. It’s best to opt for packaged or freshly squeezed juices from reputable establishments.
Eric Suni/ Shutterstock | Avoid tap water while traveling to reduce the risk of illness
Alcoholic Beverages of Unknown Origin
Alcohol is a common part of many social experiences while traveling, but it’s important to be cautious when consuming alcoholic beverages of unknown origin. Homemade or unbranded alcoholic beverages may contain harmful additives or be contaminated with harmful bacteria, which can cause serious illness. Stick to branded alcoholic beverages from reputable establishments.
Ice Cubes
Ice cubes may seem harmless, but they can be a source of illness if made from contaminated water. If you’re unsure whether your drink's ice cubes have been made from purified water, it’s best to avoid them. You can ask for your drink without ice or opt for packaged drinks that don’t require ice.
Rachel Linder/ Eat This, Not That! | Contaminated food or drinks can cause traveler's diarrhea and other diseases and disrupt your travel.
Local Brews or Homemade Alcohol
While trying out the local brews or homemade alcohol may seem like an authentic cultural experience, it’s best to exercise caution. These drinks may not be regulated or properly processed, leading to contamination by harmful bacteria or even toxic substances. It’s best to stick to branded, commercially produced alcohol.
Unpasteurized or Raw Coconut Water
Coconut water is a popular drink in many tropical destinations, but it’s important to be cautious when consuming unpasteurized or raw coconut water. Unpasteurized coconut water may contain harmful bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli, which can cause serious illness. It’s best to opt for packaged or pasteurized coconut water to reduce the risk of illness.
