Sea travel

Tread tides carefully

When you're at the shore, be alert to any warnings about rough tides. Don't ever swim alone and swim only when there is a lifeguard present. Watch for danger signs that might indicate fierce waves and dangerous riptides, including waves that are choppy, foamy, or filled with seaweed or debris and are also moving in a channel away from shore. And if you're caught in a riptide, be sure to swim parallel to the shore. Once you've broken free of the current, turn and swim toward shore.

Avoid seasickness

If a cruise is in your plans, be prepared for motion sickness, even if you don't normally experience it. To get some relief, try closing your eyes or gazing at a faraway, stationary object. Reading might exacerbate your sea sickness, so avoid it and use a headrest when seated to minimize head movement. If you feel you need more air in your cabin, open vents or windows to increase the airflow. And to feel better overall, move to the boat's center, where the waves might not feel as rocky.

Wash up

Perhaps the most notorious hazards on board cruise ships are infectious diseases, respiratory illnesses in particular. If there's an outbreak, don't shake hands, and wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer, such as Germ-X or Purell, that contains at least 60 percent alcohol.

For a list of other supplies and drugs that can help you survive your trip, see what items Consumer Reports' doctors often take with them on vacation.