Travel is an effective way to reduce daily stressors and improve mental health, with those taking frequent vacations experiencing its positive impacts for longer.
Travel can present unique challenges, especially during this COVID-19 pandemic. Follow these time-tested tips to keep yourself healthy on your journey:.
1. Get plenty of sleep
Solo travel is a proven way to reduce stress levels and expand experiences and cultural horizons; however, there may be risks such as sunburn, dehydration, diarrhea and illness associated with any journey.
Get plenty of rest during both travel and arrival at your destination to avoid fatigue and boost immune function, as well as to adjust to different time zones more easily. A restful night may even help with time zone differences!
2. Eat a healthy diet
Maintaining a diet rich in immune-enhancing vegetables and fruit, along with safe food and beverages when traveling is essential to good health when traveling. When visiting less developed countries it’s especially important to choose healthy options, including ensure all meat is cooked through before it arrives to you in hot steamy serving utensils; drink only bottled water without ice cubes for safe consumption; pack over-the-counter medications such as Ibuprofen, antihistamines, decongestants or motion sickness pills along with over-the-counter medicines just in case.
3. Stay hydrated
Dehydration is a frequent travel concern. Long flights, unfamiliar climates and stressors such as jetlag can all contribute to dehydration; drinking plenty of water throughout your journey can help protect against this from happening.
Watermelons, pineapples, strawberries and cucumbers contain lots of water, helping you remain properly hydrated throughout the day. Try carrying a refillable bottle to keep yourself on track with your hydration goals and stay hydrated during travel. Eating more hydrating foods also can reduce junk food cravings and bloat.
4. Take care of your skin
Skin is our body’s largest organ and serves to protect us against germs, illness and damage as well as helping us feel things such as heat or cold.
An effective skin care routine can keep your complexion radiant while traveling. This should include gentle cleansers, moisturizers and sun protection products; be mindful to avoid too much touching as too much touching may irritate and lead to breakouts in your skin.
5. Take care of your teeth
Traveling can provide many health advantages, yet also poses potential health hazards. Stress levels may increase; digestion might not agree with adventure; and unexpected illnesses could put an end to your vacation plans.
Proper dental health goes beyond aesthetics and fresh breath. Achieving excellent oral hygiene has been linked to several chronic illnesses and can improve overall health.
6. Get plenty of exercise
Traveling for vacation or business should never be seen as an excuse to neglect exercise. From going to the hotel gym before meetings to taking long walks around your neighborhood, staying active while away can help maintain a healthy lifestyle and ensure you return feeling great when back at home. Exercise also improves mental health and mood.