Staying healthy while traveling can be hard enough when you’re trying to adjust to unfamiliar surroundings. It’s even more difficult when you don’t know the area well enough to find good food and clean water. However, following these five tips will help you stay healthy and make your travels more enjoyable.
1. Get Vaccinated Before Traveling
It is essential to get vaccinated to protect yourself against diseases that can be contracted while traveling, such as typhoid, yellow fever, and malaria. Ensure you get your vaccines at least two weeks before you leave for your trip for them to be effective.
Vaccines may not protect you from some diseases if they’re given after being exposed, or when it's too close to the travel date. In addition, ensure you visit a travel medicine expert to advise you on how to take COVID-19 vaccine before traveling.
2. Pack a First-aid Kit
It’s always a good idea to pack a first-aid kit while traveling. The kit will come in handy in case you or someone else gets injured on the way. It is helpful, especially if you are traveling with your children. Here are some things that should be in your first-aid kit:
- Bandages
- Antiseptic
- Wipes
- Tweezers
- Anti-inflammatory cream
- Insect repellent
You can also consider the type of car insurance coverage that's best for you if you'll be using car hire services.
3. Get Plenty of Sleep
Try to get plenty of sleep before a trip to avoid jet lag and fatigue. Shift your bedtime and waking times a week before your trip to match your destination. Once you arrive, try to get at least eight hours of sleep per night. The best way to do this is by going to bed at the same time every night, which will help your body adjust, especially if you travel across more than one time zone.
4. Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to forget to drink water while traveling, but it can make a big difference in how you feel. If you’re unsure what your body needs, consult a doctor or nutritionist for advice. In general, try to drink about two liters of water each day (or eight glasses) and always carry your water bottle to have access to clean water. Don’t drink tap water, as it can be dangerous to your health while traveling. Always use bottled water or filtered water when brushing your teeth or drinking. Even if tap water is safe, your body should stick with bottled or filtered water.
5. Exercise
Exercise is a great way to stay healthy while traveling. It can release stress, improve sleep, and make it easier to adjust time zones and eating habits. Here are three tips for exercising while you are away from home.
- Pack your workout clothes in a carry-on bag
- Stay active during the day by taking short walks or running around the city
- Try local activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding
Endnote
Traveling is interesting for anyone who aspires to explore the world. However, following the proper process can be quite an uphill task for many people across the globe. The above tips can help individuals and families to avoid risks associated with failure to prepare adequately before traveling.
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