You’re packed and ready to go on your dream vacation – the day has finally arrived! But before you hit the road, the air, the sea, or whichever way you choose travel, there are a few things to consider. Road and Travel Magazine offers a list of 10 basic steps to healthy traveling:
- Avoid too much sun: Use sunscreen with an SPF rating of 15 or higher and shade your eyes and face with a hat or sunglasses.
- Keep your medicine with you: Keep all daily medications near you at all times. Keep them in a carry-on bag when flying.
- Move around: No matter the method of travel (plane, car, boat, train, etc.), get up and move around at least one time per hour for a few minutes or longer.
- Exercise: Try to accumulate 30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise at least three times per week.
- Support your back: Ask the hotel for a king-size bed (they often have firmer mattresses). Adjust plane or car seats while traveling to maintain proper back and head support.
- Eat right and drink plenty of water: To reduce the onset of indigestion, eat new foods in moderation during active times of the day, not at night. Also stay hydrated and minimize your intake of alcohol and caffeinated beverages when flying.
- Plan ahead: Get all immunizations four to six weeks before you leave. If you suffer from motion sickness, avoid heavy meals and alcohol before traveling.
- Avoid muscle strain: Pack two smaller suitcases rather than a single large one. Make sure the suitcases you buy have wheels and pull handles or straps.
- Be prepared: When traveling internationally, carry a written summary of your personal health history in case of a medical emergency.
- Don’t let jet lag get you down: Shift your sleep/wake cycle to the new time before you travel. Make appropriate food choices and spend time outdoors during your first few days on vacation.
In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend the following travel tips:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub – especially before eating.
- Drink only boiled or bottled water or carbonated drinks from sources you trust when traveling outside the United States. Avoid tap water, fountain drinks and ice cubes.
- Eat only fully cooked food or fruits and vegetables you have peeled yourself when traveling abroad.
Sources: Road and Travel Magazine;Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
