Guide to Travel Health: Tips for a Safe Summer Vacation

While the long days and gorgeous weather signal peak summer enjoyment, they can also pose health risks if you’re not careful. Beyond the basics of proper hydration and ample sunscreen, we’ll cover the best vacation tips for both travelers and homebodies alike.

Summer has arrived once again, bringing with it the busiest vacation season of the year. Whether you’re headed to a tropical beach, a festive amusement park, or a quiet cabin in the mountains, staying healthy and safe is essential to fully enjoy your trip.

How to Stay Healthy While Traveling

Traveling is often one of the most exciting parts of summer vacation. The anticipation builds as you board a plane or hop in the car. But while you’re on the road (or in the air), there are still precautions people should take to protect their health. 

Here are some of our top tips.

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.

Consider Medications

Of course, ensuring any prescriptions you need to take come with you on your vacation is important. Make sure you stick to the intended schedule for taking your medications! 

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.

Stay Hydrated

A tall glass of water can solve so many problems. Always keep a water bottle on you, and set reminders on your phone to drink frequently if you tend to forget. Staying hydrated will keep your body cool and healthy.

Apply Sunscreen–Even While Driving

Everyone understands the importance of protecting their skin from the sun’s UV rays, especially in the summer. But did you know you’re vulnerable to UV rays while driving? 

While it’s true that all automobiles have laminated windshields in the front that protect from both types of the sun’s ultraviolet rays, that doesn’t mean your side windows or sunroof have the same protection. Make sure to apply plenty of sunscreen if you’re on the road during the daylight.

Along with staying healthy, it’s essential to prioritize your 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. 

How to Stay Healthy During Vacation

Finally, you’ve arrived at your destination, eager to enjoy the long summer days ahead. But first, read this list of tips to stay safe and healthy during your summer vacation!

1. Acknowledge Food Safety: Be mindful of food safety rules, especially while grilling or picnicking. If you or someone in your group has food allergies, double check restaurant menus with the wait staff to ensure safe and delightful mealtimes. 
2. Look out for Allergies/Allergens: While your home environment may be spic and span after a bit of spring cleaning, it’s likely you’ll 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.
3. Be Cautious with Activities: Summer 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. 
4. Know the Difference Between Heat Stroke and 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.
5. Take Advantage of Summer Fruits and Veggies: Fruits and vegetables in season this time are often low-cost, delicious, and full of helpful nutrients that will keep you in top shape throughout the summer. Head to your local Farmer’s Market and stock up on vitamin-rich foods like watermelon, cantaloupe, and tomatoes.
6. Protect Your Skin: Wearing sunscreen isn’t the only way to protect your skin and keep yourself cool in the summer. Wear a hat that provides some shade to your face and neck. Utilize light, breathable materials, along with long sleeves and pants, whenever possible to keep the sun’s rays off your skin.
7. Don’t Forget Bug Spray: Depending on the area you’re visiting, mosquitos, 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.

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 Protect Myself from Getting Sick While Traveling?

No one wants to head out for an epic summer vacation only to spend the first few days in bed with a cold or cough. The best way to protect yourself from getting sick while traveling is to prioritize your health year-round. Stay active throughout the year and choose healthy meals with immune-boosting nutrients.

While traveling, prioritize your health by staying hydrated and eating properly (and taking vitamins if necessary). It’s also essential to ensure you get plenty of sleep. Sleep deprivation can compromise your immune system, so don’t push yourself to pull an all-nighter around the campfire with your friends. 

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. Always practice good hygiene and hand-washing practices while traveling!

Finally, remember to always carry any medications, inhalers, epi-pens, etc. with you.

Need Help?

Accidents and health issues can arise even during a summer vacation. Whether you're dealing with a rash, a bug bite, or an allergy flare-up, The Urgency Room is here to help. Start a visit online to get quick and professional care so you can return to enjoying your vacation without delay!