There’s nothing quite like getting away from home and hitting the reset button on your day-to-day life. Adventures in travel can add wonderful memories and give us refreshing perspectives on the world around us.
That said, the body is a funny thing. When we’re away from our usual habits and comforts, we’re more likely to experience some kind of sickness or condition. Not only that, but we’re often exposed to environments that we’re not accustomed to, which also have their harmful impacts on our health.
That’s why it’s important to incorporate health and safety reminders in your travel itinerary.
How to Stay Healthy While Traveling
Staying healthy while traveling doesn’t have to be complicated. However, it does require a bit of planning and awareness. There are sometimes long hours in transit and unfamiliar environments that can take a toll on your body if you’re not careful. Here are some safety tips to consider while traveling.
Physical Health & Wellness
Stop and Stretch
One of the simplest mistakes travelers can make is pushing themselves too hard to reach their destination. Whether you’re driving or aboard a plane, stop and stretch every couple of hours to keep your blood moving.
Stay Hydrated
It’s not uncommon to become dehydrated as you travel. In fact, you’re more likely to be dehydrated while flying, for example. A tall glass of water can solve so many problems. Always keep a water bottle with you, and set reminders on your phone to drink frequently if you tend to forget. Staying hydrated will keep your body cool and healthy.
Support Your Body With Proper Nutrition
Travel means more movement and general exertion on the body. You may want to prioritize balanced meals that include vitamins and protein you will need to maintain good energy levels. If you’re mindful about what you eat before and during your trip, you’ll notice the difference in how good you feel.
Have an Injury Plan & First Aid Kit
You should also have a simple injury plan in place. Get to know the area and directions to the nearest urgent care or hospital should you need them. Be sure you pack a first aid kit with you, especially if you’re hiking or performing any semi-risky activities. Even with careful planning, injuries still happen. A little preparation can go a long way.
Medications & Preventative Care
Remember Prescriptions
Of course, you’ll want to take your prescriptions with you. Make sure you stick to the intended schedule for taking your medications! Some can be very time-sensitive, which is especially important if you’re traveling across time zones.
In addition, if you struggle with motion sickness or allergies, consider speaking with a doctor before you leave about prescription or over-the-counter medications.
Look Out for Allergies/Allergens
You may run into some allergens while on your trip. Try to minimize exposure by choosing hotels or vacation rentals that don’t allow pets if you’re allergic. Look for reviews that mention the cleanliness of a rental as a positive to reduce your exposure to dust and other common allergens. Finally, talk with your doctor ahead of time about possible medications.
Know the Difference Between Heat Stroke & Heat Exhaustion
A little preventative research can go a long way toward staying healthy while on vacation. Look into the causes and signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion and what to do if you have either.
Don’t Forget Bug Spray
Depending on the area you’re visiting, mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and other pests might pose a problem during your vacation. Stock up on bug spray and follow best practices outdoors, such as tucking pants into your socks and avoiding certain areas that may be breeding grounds for pests (like standing water). Familiarize yourself with the possible dangers in the area and the best ways to stay safe from ticks and other pests.
Travel Safety & Awareness
Share Your Itinerary With Friends or Family
Along with staying healthy, it’s essential to prioritize your physical safety while traveling. Choose vacation rentals in populated areas with plenty of reviews, consider weather conditions in the areas you’ll be traveling through, and provide a trusted family member or friend with a detailed itinerary of your plans.
Be Cautious With Activities
Celebrations often involve dangerous activities, such as watersports, fireworks, and campfires. Know your limits and choose pools or beaches with active lifeguards. Don’t leave children unattended around fireworks or campfires.
Review the United States Travel Advisory Map
The U.S. Travel Advisory Map can give you an idea of the level of risk that tourists face when they travel to a particular location.
These tips are just a starting point for staying healthy during vacation. Always listen to your body! If you feel fatigued or dehydrated, take a break from your activities. Rest and rehydrate until you feel ready to join in again.
How Can I Avoid Getting Sick While Traveling?
No one wants to head out for a fun vacation only to spend the first few days in bed with a cold or cough. While traveling, prioritize your health by:
- Staying hydrated: Proper hydration can help prevent illnesses by supporting immune system functions and flushing toxins. It can also help regulate body temperature and transport nutrients.
- Eating properly: A healthy diet will provide your body with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants needed for resisting (and repairing damage from) viral infections.
- Taking vitamins: As an extra measure, taking vitamin supplements can help add to the vitamin intake you already receive from your diet. Vitamins like C, D, and Zinc support the immune system.
- Practicing good hygiene: It can be easy to forget the basics when you’re on the go. But remembering to wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds, as well as using hand sanitizer, can go a long way in preventing illness while traveling.
- Getting plenty of sleep: Sleep deprivation can compromise your immune system. In fact, getting good sleep will strengthen the immune system, producing cells and antibodies that detect and fight viruses. So don’t push yourself to pull all-nighters during your travels.
Another final tip is to understand the area you’re visiting and any inherent risks. Make sure the tap water is safe to drink, and bring bottled water if needed. Don’t hesitate to ask wait staff questions about food preparation methods while traveling if you have sensitivities or allergies.
Need Help?
Accidents and health issues happen regardless of our travel plans. Whether you’re dealing with a rash, a bug bite, or an allergy flare-up, The Urgency Room is here to help. We have locations in Eagan, Vadnais Heights, Golden Valley and Woodbury. Start a visit online to get quick and professional care so you can return to enjoying your vacation without delay! and professional care so you can return to enjoying your vacation without delay!