Hitting the road for the holidays? Follow these healthy travel tips

Are you one of the many families preparing to get out of town for the holidays? Maybe you have a work trip coming up and want to make sure you stay healthy. Whatever the reason for your journey, it’s important to plan ahead and follow healthy travel tips to protect yourself and your family during your trip.

1. Stay up to date on vaccinations.

Travel often includes being in crowded spaces where germs can spread quickly, such as at the airport or on a plane or train. One of the most important tips for travel health on vacation is to make sure you and your family are current on all necessary vaccinations, including COVID-19 and the flu. If you are traveling out of the country, talk to your doctor about other vaccines that might be necessary. Because vaccines take time to build up your immunity—and some require more than one dose—make sure you get your immunizations up to date at least a few weeks ahead of your departure. During your journey, it’s also a good idea to avoid travelers who appear ill whenever possible.

2. Pack for your destination.

Check the weather forecast for your destination and fill your suitcase with proper clothing and other essentials. Are you going to be lying on the beach in a warm, tropical location? Make sure you pack plenty of sunscreen of at least SPF 30, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a light long-sleeved shirt to cover your skin. Keep in mind that even warm weather destinations can get chilly at night, so don’t forget to include warmer items like pants and a sweater. Hitting the slopes for some fun in the snow? Don’t forget to pack so you can dress in layers, including T-shirts, sweatshirts, and sweaters, and be sure to include warm hats, gloves, scarves, a winter coat, and proper footwear.

3. Practice healthy habits.

Traveling can be stressful, and stress can make your body more susceptible to illness. This means it’s even more important to follow steps to take care of yourself physically, such as staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, getting enough sleep, and making sure to get exercise during your trip (don’t forget to pack workout clothes!). Take walks to go sightseeing instead of seeing the sights by car, and take advantage of your hotel’s workout facilities.

In addition, while it’s tempting to throw healthy eating habits out the window while you’re on vacation or on a work trip, try to stay in a healthy mindset while traveling. Think cheat meals instead of cheat weeks! Try to order healthier options when available, such as grilled chicken or fish instead of fried fare. It’s also important to make sure all food is cooked properly. Also, if you are traveling abroad, it’s safest to have unopened bottled water instead of drinking tap water to limit the risk of getting sick.

4. Be prepared for the unexpected.

Remember that even with the best planning, unexpected illness and other events can occur while on vacation. Be sure to bring a kit filled with travel medicine, such as diarrhea medications, pain relievers, antacids, medicine for motion sickness, cold medicine, and more. You should also include insect repellant, eye drops, bandages and anti-bacterial ointment, a thermometer, and aloe vera for sunburns.

In addition, make sure you and your family members stay safe by always wearing a seatbelt when in a vehicle and being aware of your surroundings at all times. When in an unfamiliar place, get information on the destination in advance so you can avoid stumbling into potentially unsafe areas.

Need health advice while away from home? Call LCMC Health’s free Ask a Nurse Hotline at 504.386.3125 weekdays 8 a.m.–8 p.m. and weekends 8 a.m.–4 p.m.