Do’s and Don’ts of Alcohol and Travel

Don't make exceptions for vacations
The same rules from home apply to drinking: Take your medications, and don't mix them when on the road. Certain medical conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes, may be exacerbated by the rigors of travel, so take extra care to adhere to your medications' guidelines. Although alcohol is a nervous system depressant, it also has cardiac stimulant properties and should be avoided during times of physical exertion, especially by people with a history of heart disease, strokes and high blood pressure. If you have any travel medical concerns or questions about the interactions among your medical conditions, medications and alcohol, consult your physician before traveling.

Do enjoy yourself
A casual drink or two during vacation is certainly not a travel medical risk. Simply remember the healthy habits we have covered:

• Always stay hydrated. Proper hydration with water counteracts the dehydrating effects of alcohol and excess exertion during travel.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Use sunlight to promote energetic days and thus restful nights.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages during the day if you have a busy daytime sightseeing schedule.

All-inclusive resort and cruise vacations provide plenty of temptation for indulging in excess alcohol and ignoring the guidelines for safe and healthy vacationing. The only saving grace of all-inclusive alcohol is that these types of vacations are designed for staying put on the beach or poolside, not for running around during the day.

Don't buy more than you can carry
In U.S. airports, and many airports around the world, you may not carry any liquids over your 3-1-1 allowance through airport security. However, any liquid purchased after clearing airport security is permitted on board.

In checked bags, alcoholic beverages with more than 70 percent alcohol content are not allowed. You are allowed to pack five liters of alcohol with between 24 percent and 70 percent alcohol content in sealed containers in checked baggage. There are no restrictions on beverages with under 24 percent alcohol content. When in doubt, consult the TSA's website for full regulations.

Also of interest: Alcohol policies on cruise ships.