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Vacation Tips to Keep Healthy

Since summer is finally here, I thought it might be a good time to discuss some healthy planning tips for your vacation this year.

  • If you plan to fly, you may want to consider wearing a mask on the plane.  Keep the air flow jets “on” to circulate the air.
  • Move around on plane flights and drives in the car.  Some travelers develop blood clots in their legs when siting for long periods of time. If you are flying, get up and walk around every hour. Move your legs and feet. If you are driving, stop every couple of hours and get outside of the car to walk around. Wear compression stockings. If you have a medical condition and have a long trip scheduled, talk to your doctor about other precautions.
  • Drink lots of fluids while traveling and on your trip. Start your day with a glass or water and carry a bottle of water with you, if you are going to be out all day.
  • Pack healthy snacks if you are traveling or out and about. They are better for you and will save you money.
  • Eat healthy foods while on vacation. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Pick foods you enjoy, but don’t overeat. If you overindulge at one meal, try and be better at the next meal. Limit sweets and alcohol. Everything in moderation.
  • Keep your hands clean. Handrails and the things we touch are loaded with germs! To guard against infections, wash your hands frequently, or use hand sanitizer. This is especially important before you eat. Try not to touch your face, especially your eyes, with unwashed hands.
  • Do activities outside vs. being jammed in a room with lots of people. Take a tour, go for a walk, go to the beach, explore a new place, visit a museum or landmark. Walk at least once each day, unless that is already incorporated in your plans.
  • If you take prescription medications, pack the medications you need. If you are flying, keep your medications on your carry-on, not your checked baggage. Bring OTC meds and supplies like Tylenol, Motrin, Benadryl, Band-Aids, antibiotic ointment, hydrocortisone cream, bug spray, and sunscreen.
  • Although you may be tempted to go to as many places as possible from early morning to late at night, get enough sleep. You’re more likely to get sick when you’re rundown, so don’t skimp on sleep while you’re on vacation. Being on the road is physically more exhausting than being home, so listen to your body and rest when you need to. 
  • Eat breakfast. It is the most important meal of the day, especially when traveling. Instead of skipping breakfast or eating something unhealthy, eat healthy options like fruit, cereal, or oatmeal before starting your day.
  • If you are traveling to a place with a time difference, try taking a nap on the flight. Avoid beverages that contain alcohol or caffeine, avoid using your smartphone, tablet or laptop before trying to sleep, and consider earplugs on the flight. Reading, meditating, and praying might also help you relax while flying. Jet lag can impact your health and interfere with the ability to enjoy yourself.

So, having said all of these things, “go on vacation and enjoy yourself!”  Self- care is needed to rejuvenate ourselves from our daily routines. If going away is not something that you are able to do this year, take time for yourself and plan some day trips. We have lots of parks to visit, local attractions, and things to do nearby. And, sometimes just staying home, sitting outside, walking in your neighborhood, exercising, going to church for services or adoration, listening to music, or just “chilling” by yourself or with your loved ones, is enough to feeling refreshed!

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