According to news reports, the tourism industry is slowly gaining traction. With a 4 percent growth in 2021, it’s no surprise to see an upcoming surge in travel plans. If you are among those preparing for a trip, now is the time to start thinking about maintaining your wellness while traveling.
Your health should be a priority, no matter where you go or what you do. After all, being sick on vacation is never any fun. To help you stay healthy and enjoy your time away from home, here are a few tips to follow:
Get vaccinated.
Depending on your destination, there may be certain vaccines you need to get before traveling. Vaccinations are essential not only for your health but also for the health of those around you. A vaccine can help prevent or lessen the severity of a disease, which is why it’s crucial to stay up-to-date on your shots.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), some of the most common travel-related vaccines include those for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, influenza, and rabies. If you’re unsure what vaccines you need, your doctor is the best person to ask. They can help you determine the necessary shots based on age, health condition, and travel plans.
You can get vaccinated at your local health department, doctor’s office, or pharmacy. Many travel clinics also offer vaccines for a fee, so there’s no excuse not to get the shots you need before your trip.
Practice good hygiene.
A lot of travelers fail to practice good hygiene while on the go. But proper hygiene is one of the best ways to protect yourself from getting sick. Whether at an airport, in a hotel, or exploring a new city, maintaining a hygienic practice can make or break your health while traveling.
So, what exactly does good hygiene entail? Washing your hands regularly and properly is a must. Make sure you use soap and water and scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Aside from handwashing, you should also avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth. These movements are how germs and bacteria can enter your system and make you sick. And when you sneeze or cough, do so into a tissue or the crook of your elbow to prevent the spread of germs.
Finally, don’t forget to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, countertops, and faucets. These areas are prime breeding grounds for germs, so keeping them clean is important. This way, you can minimize exposure to potentially illness-causing bacteria and viruses.
Watch what you eat and drink.
When traveling, it’s easy to let your guard down regarding food and drink. Several unhealthy options are often available, and indulging can be tempting. But you could get sick from consuming contaminated food or water if you’re not careful.
To avoid getting ill, only eat food that’s been cooked thoroughly and is still hot. Steer clear of undercooked meat, poultry, eggs, and raw fruits and vegetables. If you’re unsure about the safety of a particular food, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid it altogether. You can still enjoy meals by browsing a lifestyle blog for healthy recipes you can make while on the road.
It’s also essential to drink only clean water. That means avoiding ice cubes, unpasteurized milk and dairy products, fresh fruits and vegetables washed in contaminated water, and anything with a lot of ice. With that said, only drink bottled or boiled water to be on the safe side. And if you’re unsure about the safety of a beverage, don’t hesitate to ask before consuming it. This simple act could save you a lot of misery later on.
Get enough sleep and exercise.
It can be challenging to get a good night’s sleep while traveling. However, it’s essential to do your best to get enough rest. A lack of sleep can leave you exhausted and make it harder to fight off infection.
The same goes for exercise. Staying active helps boost your immune system, so aim to get at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week. If you can’t commit to a full workout, take a brisk walk or jog whenever you can. And when you’re on a long flight, get up and move around every few hours to keep your blood flowing.
With enough sleep and exercise, you’ll be better equipped to handle whatever comes your way while traveling.
The above are a few best practices to follow to maintain wellness while traveling. Do your research before your trip and devise a plan to ensure you’re taking care of yourself. That way, you can relax and enjoy your vacation without worrying about getting sick.
