If you’re like me, you don’t let the onset of cold and flu season stop you from traveling with your kids. Sure, you might be exposing your children to more germs on planes and public buses and in hotels and museums, but with some common-sense precautions, you can do your best to keep sickness at bay while you’re away.

Get Vaccinated

I’ve gotten flu shots for more than a decade now, and since then, the only time I’ve had the flu was in my first trimester of pregnancy when my doctor had advised against getting the shot. So personally I’m a firm believer in their efficacy. My kids are now old enough for flu “mist” which they inhale through their nose with zero pain involved. This year not only the “seasonal” flu shot is available, but the H1N1 (“swine flu”) vaccine is as well. That extra layer of protection my family gets with flu shots just gives me peace of mind when we travel over the holidays.

Wash Your Hands and Your Kids’ Hands — A Lot

Flu shots don’t protect against the majority of viruses, so the most effective way to reduce the transmission of cold germs (and infectious disease) is hand washing. Have your children sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice while they’re soaping up their hands. Pack a travel-size hand sanitizer for those times when you don’t have running water at hand (like on a plane when the seat-belt sign is on).

Stay Hydrated

Your kids might like to order soda or high-fructose corn syrup juices from the flight attendant, but encourage (or enforce) plain water. Set a good example by packing reusable bottles filled with ice water.

Make Smart Food Choices

You’re on vacation — it’s so easy to throw good eating habits out the window, especially when those hotel-buffet pastries and decadent desserts are so enticing! But being rational about treats and eating nutritious foods while you’re away will help maintain your family’s healthy immune systems.

Maintain a Decent Sleep Schedule

This is so much easier said than done, especially when you’re visiting relatives you may not see often, you’re crossing time zones or you’re in a new-to-you destination and you want to see and do everything! Remember, that a good night’s sleep means everyone will be in better moods for sightseeing the following day — plus, if you don’t fit it all in, there’s always next time.