A study published in the European Journal of Public Health reported that 10.1% of all travelers surveyed experienced travel-associated illnesses, and 1.8% suffered from injuries during their trip. While these numbers may seem small, it’s important to remember that even a short trip can put your health at risk. Here are a few tips to help you stay healthy while traveling:
Make a packing list.
Traveling allows people to experience different cultures and explore new places. However, it can also be a breeding ground for illness, especially if you’re not careful. Making a packing list is one of the best ways to protect your health while traveling. This may seem like a simple task, but it can help you remember all the essential items you need to stay healthy.
For example, be sure to pack plenty of hand sanitizer, wipes, and tissues, as these will come in handy for keeping surfaces clean. Also, remember to pack any medications you take regularly and any other essential items like contact lenses or glasses. Taking a few minutes to make a packing list can help ensure that you have everything you need to stay healthy while on the go.
Stay hydrated.
One of the most important things you shouldn’t skip while traveling is drinking fluids. Getting dehydrated is easy when you’re on the go, especially if you’re not used to the climate or the altitude. Dehydration can cause a number of problems, including headaches, fatigue, and dizziness. It can also make you more susceptible to illness.
To avoid these problems, be sure to drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Carry a water bottle with you, and try to drink at least eight ounces of water per hour. If you’re traveling to a place with a lot of sun exposure, drink even more fluids and include electrolytes in your diet.
Get plenty of rest.
When you’re on the go, it’s easy to let your sleep schedule fall by the wayside. But skimping on shut-eye can actually lead to a whole host of health problems, from exhaustion and irritability to weakened immunity and impaired cognitive function. That’s why it’s important to ensure you get plenty of rest when traveling.
You can do a few simple things to ensure you get a good night’s sleep while you’re away from home.
- Try to stick to your regular bedtime as much as possible. If you can’t do that, at least try to wind down for a few hours before turning in.
- Unplug from electronics screens at least an hour before bed; the blue light they emit can disrupt your natural sleep cycle.
- Create a comfortable sleeping environment in your hotel room by investing in a good travel pillow and noise-canceling earplugs.
With a little effort, you can make sure you hit the hay feeling refreshed and ready to take on whatever the day throws your way.
Exercise when you can.
Any travel enthusiast knows one of the best ways to explore a new place is on foot. Not only do you get to see more of your surroundings, but you also get some exercise in the process. Walking is a great way to stay active while traveling, but it’s not the only option. If you’re looking for a more strenuous workout, there are plenty of other options available. Running, biking, and swimming are all excellent exercises to do while on vacation. And, if you’re traveling with children, there are plenty of family-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy together.
Participating in physical activity while traveling has many benefits. It helps to boost your energy level, keeps your mind sharp, and can even help you ward off jet lag. So next time you’re planning a trip, be sure to pack your sneakers and hit the ground running.
Avoid processed foods.
When traveling, it can be tempting to eat whatever is convenient, especially if you’re pressed for time. However, eating processed food can have a negative impact on your health. Processed food is often high in sugar, salt, and fat and can contain preservatives and other chemicals that disrupt your body’s natural balance.
Avoiding processed food is a good place to start if you’re trying to stay healthy while traveling. Instead, look for a healthy food shop that sells fresh, whole foods. These stores usually have a wide variety of healthy options that will give you the energy you need to explore your destination without harming your health.
Stick to your routine as much as possible.
One of the best ways to stay healthy while traveling is to stick to a routine. If you normally eat healthy meals and work out regularly, try to keep up with those habits while you’re on the road. It also means keeping up with your exercise routine. This can be difficult, especially if you’re constantly changing time zones or eating out all the time. Still, it’s important to make an effort.
If you can do all these things, you’ll be less likely to get sick while traveling. And you’ll be more likely to recover quickly if you do get sick.
Maintaining your healthy habits while traveling can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that you stay on track while away from home. Sticking to a routine, avoiding processed foods, and getting plenty of rest are all excellent ways to stay healthy while on the road. So next time you hit the open road, be sure to pack your sneakers and healthiest snacks.
