7 Tips for Staying Healthy While Travelling
Taking a long-planned trip can be fun, rewarding, and relaxing. However, there are special health risks when you travel. Use these seven tips to stay healthy on your trip.
1. Research Your Destination
Every destination will have a unique set of risks and warnings, so it makes sense to look into those before you start planning too deeply. So, before you head off to some of the most awe-inspiring places in Alaska, be sure you find out if there are any special considerations. Visitor bureaus for the country, state, or city are good places to start.
If you are planning an international trip, it is a good idea to check for any advisories or vaccine requirements for the countries on your itinerary. These will help you avoid some common illnesses endemic in that region.
2. Order Extra Medications
If you take any medications, you will need to plan ahead to ensure you have enough for the trip. Reach out to the pharmacy about getting additional supplies if you aren’t due for a refill yet. Many will work around travel plans. Pack any prescriptions in your carry-on bag — in their original containers — to minimize the chance it gets lost or damaged. It’s also helpful to keep phone numbers for your doctor and pharmacy on hand just in case you have a problem.
3. Make a Plan for Healthy Eating
Eating a balanced diet can help you stay healthy and fit. In addition to providing fuel for your activities, it also helps keep your gut healthy, which contributes to overall better health outcomes. However, it can be hard to stick with a regular eating program when you are away from home.
Make the most of your hotel minifridge and microwave by stocking up on fruits and veggies to snack on. If you do eat out, try to stick to simply prepared items. Heavy cream sauces and ultra-spicy foods may be delicious, but they can wreak havoc with your system. If you’re unsure of menu items, ask your server for advice.
4. Allow Time for Rest
Sleep is integral to keeping you healthy. You should aim for between seven and nine hours of sleep every night — even when you are on vacation. Unfortunately, between jet lag, lots of sights to see, and unfamiliar beds, travel can make that a challenge. Avoid overscheduling so that you still have plenty of rest. Even if you aren’t getting a full night’s sleep, lounging by the pool or relaxing with a good book can help you recover and recharge.
5. Wash Your Hands
Hand washing is one of the simplest and most effective hygiene practices you can undertake to stay healthy. Lather up before and after eating, when you use the restroom, or when you have been in a public space. Carry hand sanitizer for when soap and water aren’t available.
6. Drink Lots of Water
It is important to stay hydrated, regardless of where you are. Drinking about eight glasses of water a day is the easiest way to do that. Carry a reusable bottle wherever you go so that you always have a drink on hand. Use bottled water if you have any doubts about the local water supply.
7. Stay Active
You already know that physical activity is important for staying healthy. However, that doesn’t make it any easier to get a good workout on your vacation. After all, it can be really hard to get motivated enough to use a dismal hotel gym. Luckily, there are tons of fitness apps and workout videos that you can follow along with just about anywhere.
Keep in mind that physical activity doesn’t necessarily have to mean exercise, either. Simply planning some physical activities, such as exploring your surroundings on foot or by bicycle, can make a difference. Wearing a fitness tracker can help you keep track of what you are really doing throughout your trip and ensure you get enough steps in.
It is possible to have a healthy travel experience. Plan ahead for meals and physical activity, practice good hygiene and be sure to get enough rest for a great trip.
