We all know that traveling is amazing, but it can also be stressful and detrimental to our health when we’re constantly on the go. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy on the road.
Get Enough Rest
The most important thing you can do while traveling is sleep. Your body needs rest when you’re physically exerting yourself, crossing time zones, carrying luggage to and from destinations, walking all day, and so forth. Traveling taxes your body so make sure you get plenty of rest. How much is enough? Listen to your body. Each person has different needs.
Pace Yourself
Don’t try to see everything in one day. If you plan to do a lot in a big city, consider staying longer to slow down your pace and spread your itinerary. You’ll also get to know the area more instead of just being able to say that you’ve been there. Be active and roam the streets, but don’t overdo it. Take plenty of breaks in between.
S-T-R-E-T-C-H
Have a full day ahead? Dedicate at least 5-10 minutes every morning to stretch before you start your day of adventure. Stretch your arms, legs, neck, shoulders, and back – you’ll feel so refreshed. It’s easy to sneak in simple neck and shoulder stretches throughout the day while you’re waiting for your food, the bathroom, transportation, etc. Stretching before bedtime also helps to relax muscles and may lead to a better night’s sleep.
Breathe
You can do breathing exercises anywhere and anytime. Take a deep breath, hold it, and exhale. Repeat. It helps you relax and counter the stress of traveling.
Eat a Good Breakfast
Don’t skip out and go straight to lunch. Just don’t. If you don’t want to eat out for breakfast because you’ll be eating out for lunch and dinner, MAKE YOUR OWN BREAKFAST! It’s easy to buy a box of instant oatmeal and make it with hot water in your hotel room before heading out for the day. You can also buy fruit and cereal at the local grocery store. When hot water isn’t readily available, you can grab pastries and orange juice from a nearby bakery. Whatever you do, don’t skip breakfast! It’s the most important meal of the day for a reason – it gives you the energy to start your day right. Make your mom proud.
Hydrate
Carry a water bottle with you at all times. Drink enough water even though it may not be convenient to find public restrooms on the road. It’s the foundation of your livelihood. Your body will THANK YOU.
Limit Alcohol and Sugary Drinks
Alcohol and non-alcoholic sweet drinks are packed with calories. Keep your calorie count and sugar intake lower by drinking water instead. Not to mention, alcohol also disrupts your sleep. Of course, you’re away from work and want to enjoy a drink or two on your vacation; yes, that’s fine – the key here is to consume in moderation.
Eat Plenty of Fruits and Veggies
Pick healthier options when dining out. Choose a vegetarian dish or add a salad to balance your meal. You can also buy your own veggies or ready-made salad from the grocery store. Pack some apples, oranges, and bananas for the day.
Pack Sanitizer and Hand Wipes
This comes in handy when water and soap aren’t available, which can happen quite frequently when traveling. You’ve been walking all day and coming into contact with people, things, doors, etc. and the last thing you want to do is eat with dirty hands. Prevent the spread of germs and bacteria by cleaning your hands, especially before and/or after a meal.
Don’t Forget Your Prescriptions and Vitamins
If you regularly take medications, be sure to continue taking them while traveling. Taking some extra Vitamin C before and during your vacation can also help boost your immunity. And don’t forget to drink orange juice with your breakfast!
Protect Your Skin
Protect your skin from the sun’s UV light by wearing sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30. Reapply every two hours if you can. If you’re visiting an area with a large population of mosquitoes and insects, be sure to wear insect repellent to prevent bites.
And above all, ENJOY your travels!