With all the activities to enjoy and places to see, health can fall by the wayside while traveling. After a long stretch of health mandates, focusing on how to stay healthy while traveling might feel like a chore. However, you don't want your entire trip ruined by an unexpected fever or massive drop in energy.
Maintaining your physical and mental health is essential to enjoying your upcoming trip. Exercise while traveling can be a great way to take in the sights while keeping your body fit. And no city is short on elegant restaurants that offer healthy eating while traveling. There are many ways to let loose and still stay healthy while traveling.
6 Ways to Stay Healthy During Your Travels
Staying healthy is all about maintaining a routine. Keeping a healthy routine while traveling will ensure you get the most out of your time. Here are a few simple tips on how to stay healthy while traveling.
1. Practice Good Hygiene To Combat Germs
Nothing puts a damper on a great trip like you or one of your travel companions coming down with the flu or something worse. But, thanks to the lessons learned over the past couple of years, the world knows how to stay away from easily spreadable germs in public places.
Germs are particularly abundant in airports, with the self-check-in kiosk being the most likely to spread germs to you and your travel companions. That's why it's important to:
- Wipe down kiosks
- Use hand sanitizer
- Clean armrests
- Wear a mask if you are vulnerable to airborne diseases
- Avoid touching restroom surfaces
- Wash your hands thoroughly
These tips for keeping yourself germ-free are great for all public places you'll visit while traveling — including amusement parks and museums.
2. Stay Hydrated with Lots of Water
So much hydration is lost while traveling, so always be sure you're drinking plenty of water. Playing in the sun all day and moving from place to place makes you sweat and lose moisture every minute. That's okay, though — as long as you replenish.
Start in the morning by drinking two glasses of water right after you wake up or with breakfast — that will ensure you start ahead of the game. Then, be sure to always keep a water bottle with you. If you buy bottled water at the store, keep the empty bottle. Some places have filtered tap water available to the public, so you can always fill up and save money.
3. Get Plenty of Quality Sleep
Viruses and other ailments successfully attack when your body is at its weakest, so one of the best moves is to ensure your immune system is strong by getting plenty of rest.
Lack of sleep is linked to diabetes, obesity, and even cardiovascular disease. Lack of sleep can also have a detrimental effect on your mental health, so even though you may be on vacation, you could find yourself not having the best time because you're sleep-deprived.
The average recommendation for a healthy night's sleep is seven hours, so be sure you're getting your seven hours before you begin the next day's adventure.
4. Do Simple, Gym-Free Workouts
Staying fit while traveling may seem like a chore, but it's easier than you think. Exercise while traveling can be both healthy and entertaining.
If you're visiting a coastal town, there are always bike paths and easy-to-find rentals — pack a lunch and some water and take a long ride in the ocean breeze. Are you hitting the big city? Take a walk—or jog—around one of its parks and soak in the city atmosphere. Or, if you're at the beach, swimming in the ocean can be a refreshing and adventurous way to get in a great workout.
5. Reach for Healthy Food Options
It can be challenging to reach for healthier options but figuring out how to eat healthy while traveling will help keep your energy levels up and your travel plans moving.
Of course, you should sample some of the local favorites, but swapping out a greasy hot plate for a healthier option will help keep you from feeling weighed down as you sight-see. Also, pay particular attention to "the most important meal of the day." What you eat for breakfast will determine how each day starts, so pack plenty of protein and fruit on your plate to ensure you'll have the energy to carry you wherever you want to go.
Eating healthy while traveling doesn't mean you have to sacrifice a delicious meal. Many great restaurants offer healthy options that don't skimp on flavor — just ask your waiter.
6. Pack Supplements, Medications, and a First-Aid Kit
Traveling with a medical condition can be easier than you think with some planning. Check to see if your insurance provider covers any local doctors. If not, some additional travel insurance can help. Also, if you take regular medication, triple-check that you have everything you need — you don't want to spend your travel time searching for replacements.
Supplements can also be a big help. Vitamin C helps to boost your immune system while you're in public places. Probiotics can be a big help with digestion if you're planning on eating anything your body isn't used to. If you struggle with jet lag or sleeping away from home, melatonin helps support a healthy sleep cycle.
You never know what could happen, and you always want to be prepared — a first aid kit is essential to keeping you and your travel companions safe and healthy. An ideal travel kit should include:
- Antibacterial wipes
- Bandages
- Antibiotic ointment
- Anti-nausea or motion sickness remedies
- Insect repellent
- Ibuprofen
- An anti-diarrheal
Having these items on hand keeps everyone comfortable and healthy should you encounter any surprises during your travels.
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