While planning a trip whether short or long,there are many things we have to carry along,most of them pertaining to hygiene. To maintain personal hygiene is simple and to aid the agenda there are a plethora of products available in the market.We readily pick the ones that suit our need.There are also so many things we do or practice.Its easy to maintain a regime at home,but when we are out or while traveling,its a little complicated. There are a few things we should know about the products that are readily available on the counters and the use they have.There are many beliefs we have because of which,in the name of hygiene,we might do ourselves more harm. 1. Using Sanitizers: Often people use sanitizers over soap and water.Its easy to carry and not messy.No wiping or dripping is involved.Sanitizers are a good way to get rid of germs on the hand.But what about the dust and grime that gets accumulated during the journey?That doesn't go off without any cleaning. Its suggested that use soap and water to clean hands (it's worth mentioning here that you have to rub your hands for a minute or so to get rid of all the dirt).Post this a sanitizer would be handy.Sanitizers are alcoholic products that battle germs only,they are in no way a substitute to soap. Interestingly,it is actually recommended to use soap  over a sanitizer especially before any meal while you are on the travel. 2. Facial / Wet Wipes: For instant freshness over the journey,yes facial wipes are a good option.Many of us use these wipes to get rid of grime and make-up.These wipes are designed to give cooling instantly and there are anti-bacterial or medicated wipes that are available as well.But this does not help in clearing skin pores.Its again soap or face wash that has to be used. The best way to get rid of grime or makeup from your skin is to use a little cleansing milk on the skin, if possible.But please do not depend on the wipes completely.This especially applies if you also require to use the washroom for any reason,better use soap than the wipes only.   3.Using Plastic Containers and Bottles: While we are traveling,its most likely we would carry a used Soft drink bottle ,like a 2 liters Coca Cola bottle or a used Bisleri bottle for a short trip.We use the water from home ,maybe boiled or double filtered for safe use. This again is dangerous.Any plastic bottle,even a Bisleri that is used is designed for a one time use.The grade of plastic used is not safe for multiple use or refilling water (hot water especially).These bottles must be destroyed and thrown as soon as the contents are used in the first go. While traveling,its better to use a metallic thermos bottle or any thick plastic bottle which complies to food grade plastic norms.The same goes for the containers we carry our snacks in.   4. While stopping for a snack or meal: Generally for short trips,we donot carry any snacks.Its common to stop for lunch or meal at any local or branded food joint.When its a local joint,we take extra care to wipe the plates,clean our glasses with any paper napkin provided.The same should be followed in branded restaurants.Its a belief that since the brand is good,everything would be clean,its not so. When you are at a branded junction,its better to use paper napkins over the cloth napkins provided.It isn't impolite to demand for it.Its even ok if you want to wipe your fork,spoon and knives.With what? You hand sanitizer isn't a bad idea,is it?   5.Supplement Immunity : In case you aren't as fussy as many of us are or you have a partner that isn't fussy about maintaining hygiene on the run.In case you are given the argument of we are "desi " and like to enjoy nature as it comes...or we aren't bothered about cleanliness.Its better to carry some vitamin and calcium tablets along.Anything that is  safe to boost your immunity like chyawanprash or Seven Seas or something prescribed by your doctor should be taken.Irrespective of travel,your immunity should be able to handle the dust,smoke,smog and not to mention the many diseases we hear of. A trip taken has to be enjoyed responsibly.And who says we can't have fun.Its just that a few precautions can save a lot of harm.Its said from school times and best proven that "Its better to be safe than Sorry! " .Enjoy your trip.