Catch Rays, Not Colds

Traveling can take a toll on your body, and if you’re traveling for vacation, getting sick may ruin your whole trip. We’ve covered the germiest spots in airports and on airplanes but today we are going to cover other ways to stay healthy while traveling.

Get some sleep. People assume that because they’re sitting on a plane, train, or automobile, they’re spending the day resting. When you consider what goes into a travel day, it’s easy to see why you may feel exhausted by the time you arrive at your destination. Carrying your luggage, stressing over travel times, and crossing time zones are just a few examples of how travel days can wear you out. Listen to your body and get sleep when you can. A well-rested body is a strong body.

Pack a sick kit. There’s nothing worse than laying awake in a hotel room with heartburn, especially after reading about how important getting your rest is. When preparing for an upcoming trip, consider packing a few supplies to help prepare for the worst, such as: antacids, a thermometer, motion sickness remedies, a fever and pain reducer, cold and flu relief medicine, medicine for allergic reactions, and stomach ache medicines.

To top it off, do not forget to get your flu shot before traveling if you haven’t gotten it already. The best way to protect yourself against getting sick is by having gotten the shot. Also, it is the best way to prevent the spread of the flu.

Wear sunscreen. This is a tip that benefits everyone, even if you’re not traveling. Regardless of whether or not the sun is out, you need to wear your SPF. Make sure you are diligent about reapplying every two hours as well. Keychains with your name on them make great souvenirs, sunburns do not.

And finally – drink your water! Staying hydrated is always important, but on vacations people tend to drink less. It’s a good idea to carry a water bottle around with you at all times, since drinking water will help fight off viruses and keep your temperature normal. There are several side effects caused by dehydration. It affects your mood, reduces your cognitive motor skills, makes you more sensitive to pain, and affects your memory.

These tips are easy to remember, especially when you consider that by ignoring them, you could spend your vacation in a strange room without any comforts of home to help you recover. Sure, you may be getting sick in a five-star hotel bathroom, but you’re still getting sick.

And if you’re not worried about yourself, at least consider the maid who has to clean up after you.