Your vacation should be full of fun, not food poisoning. One bad meal can leave you stuck in a hotel room instead of exploring. That is why it is essential to be mindful of what you eat during your trip.

Here are six foods you should avoid to keep your trip on track.

Street Food With Questionable Hygiene

Street food looks tempting, especially when it is cheap and smells amazing - but not all vendors follow strict hygiene rules. Dirty cooking surfaces, unwashed hands, and spoiled ingredients can lead to food poisoning fast. A quick bite from the wrong stall can turn into days of stomach pain.

If you must try street food, pick vendors with long lines. Locals know which stalls are safe. Look for fresh ingredients and clean cooking stations. If something smells off, walk away. Your stomach will thank you.

Raw or Undercooked Seafood

Seafood is a vacation staple, especially near the ocean. But raw or undercooked fish can carry bacteria and parasites that cause severe stomach issues. Oysters, sushi, and ceviche are risky if they are not handled properly.

VK / Unsplash / Undercooked or raw seafood is a no-no during a vacation.

Restaurants with poor refrigeration or questionable sourcing are the worst offenders. If you want seafood, choose a reputable place. Fully cooked options like grilled fish are much safer.

Hotel Buffet Leftovers

Buffets seem like a great deal, but they can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Food left sitting out for hours can grow dangerous germs. Reheated meats, dairy-based dishes, and uncovered salads are the biggest risks.

Avoid anything that looks like it has been sitting too long. Stick to freshly cooked options and hot dishes that are steaming. If it looks sketchy, skip it. No vacation is worth food poisoning.

Tap Water and Ice Cubes

Water quality varies by location. In many countries, tap water is not safe for drinking. Even if the water looks clean, it can carry bacteria and parasites that cause severe stomach infections. Ice cubes are just as risky. If they are made from tap water, they can ruin your vacation in one sip.

Stick to bottled water and drinks without ice unless you are sure it is safe. Even brushing your teeth with tap water can cause problems. When in doubt, go for sealed bottles.

Dairy Products in Hot Climates

Fresh dairy can be tricky in hot climates. Milk, cheese, and yogurt spoil fast when not stored properly. Some countries don’t pasteurize dairy the same way, increasing the risk of stomach issues.

Engin / Pexels / That creamy dessert or fresh cheese might taste amazing. But if it has been sitting in the sun, it is a disaster waiting to happen.

If you are unsure, opt for alternatives like non-dairy milk or aged cheeses that are less likely to cause trouble.

Exotic Fruits With Unwashed Peels

Tropical fruits are exciting, but their peels can be covered in bacteria, pesticides, and dirt. If they are not washed properly, you can ingest harmful germs. The worst offenders are fruits you peel with your hands, like mangoes, papayas, and dragon fruit.

Always wash fruit with clean water or peel it with a sanitized knife. Better yet, choose fruit that has already been washed and cut by someone trustworthy. A little caution goes a long way in keeping your stomach happy.

Remember, the wrong food can turn a dream trip into a nightmare. Stay safe by making smart choices. Stick to fresh, well-cooked meals, avoid risky street food, and drink bottled water.