5 Important Tips for Staying Healthy While Traveling This Holiday Season

Holiday travel is back this year, but you still need to be mindful to stay safe and infection-free. Even if you’re fully vaccinated and got your flu shot, wearing masks and washing your hands is a must on airplanes and strongly advised in any public areas.

At Healthstone Primary in Weston, Pembroke Pines & Davie, Florida, our medical professionals want you and your family to stay safe as you travel around the country or around the world. That’s why we’ve assembled these five important tips for maintaining good health and vigor while seeing the sights and loved ones this holiday season.

1. Hydrate regularly and eat real foods

When you’re having fun (and perhaps drinking alcohol -- moderately), it’s easy to forget about drinking water. A surefire way to get sick on vacation -- especially on active adventures in hotter climates -- is to become dehydrated. 

From the moment you step on the plane or get in the car, make sure there’s plenty of water on hand so you can hydrate throughout your travels. The consequences of dehydration add up if you’re not careful, leaving you fatigued, sick, and unable to enjoy yourself.

Of course the holidays will also bring many tempting treats your way. You don’t have to avoid them all, but be sure your body’s also getting the real nourishment you need. Eat plenty of fresh vegetables and fruit, and make sure you get enough high-quality protein to stay sated and strong.

One of the greatest things about traveling overseas -- or even to a new state -- is sampling the local cuisine. If you’re in a developing country, be mindful of raw foods. Fruits or vegetables may not have been properly washed.

2. Pack hand sanitizer and a first aid kit

Whether you’re eating on an airplane or from a fast food window, be sure you thoroughly clean your hands before putting them near your mouth. Carry packets of hand wipes or hand sanitizer. 

Pack a small first-aid kit. Either buy a premade kit, or make your own and stock it with triple antibiotic cream, bandages of all sizes, gauze, antiseptic wipes, and any medications you need.

3. Exercise right

Family activities get everyone up and moving. Take a walk after dinner or before getting in the car to burn off some energy.

If you’re climbing ruins, hiking a rainforest, or negotiating miles of city streets, plan on every ability level so all your family members can participate without injury. Be sure to do warm ups and cool downs after vigorous exercise to reduce the chance of stiffness and sore muscles that could crimp your style in the next few days. 

4. Sleep is non-negotiable

When you’re in the middle of an exciting vacation or family visit, you may feel that there aren’t enough waking hours in a day to get it all in. However, you won’t enjoy yourself if you’re sluggish, tired, and unfocused.

Pack sleeping masks in case you end up in a hotel or guest room that’s too light. If you’re traveling across time zones, spend a few days before you leave adjusting your bedtimes and wake times to better match your destination’s time zone. 

5. Take it easy

A vacation is a great way to shake up your routine and see new sights, but try not to schedule every minute of every day. Be flexible. Take a nap when you feel tired. Cross one destination off your list if your day is too jam-packed. 

If you’re planning to travel to places where you might need up-to-date vaccinations, anti-malarial medications, or antibiotics, schedule your appointment well in advance so we can help you prepare. With a bit of planning and some precautionary measures, you and your family can concentrate on making memories rather than lying in the hotel bed feeling sick. 

To catch up on your immunizations, stock up on prescriptions you need during your travels, or for any questions about holiday safety, contact our office nearest you today by phone or online form.