As the global economy becomes more accessible for business due to the high level of digital connectivity, traveling for work is becoming incredibly common for many professionals. If you are someone who spends a significant amount of time conducting business on the road, or someone who is just lucky enough to chase your wanderlust dreams, the challenge of staying healthy while traveling may be a familiar one. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to keep your immune system in good standing while galivanting the globe. Read on for our tips to stay healthy while traveling.
Get Plenty of Sleep
This can be a tall order when you do not have the comfort of your own bed or a dark, quiet space to catch some z’s. For this reason, we highly recommend investing in a nice pair of noise cancelling headphones and a comfortable eye mask. Although that middle seat in coach is not ideal, at least you can block out sounds and lights during your in-flight nap.
You may also find yourself battling jetlag when you travel across time-zones. Many seasoned travelers recommend setting your watch to the local time immediately and doing your best to stay on schedule with the time zone you are in, as opposed to going to bed and waking up based on your time zone of origin. Additionally, some studies show that taking a melatonin supplement can aid with jetlag symptoms.
Stay Hydrated
Changes in altitude can be very dehydrating. Be sure to avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of water while you are traveling. Due to security regulations, carrying full water bottles beyond security checkpoints is prohibited. We recommend traveling with an empty reusable water bottle to avoid paying hefty airport prices to quench your thirst (and doing your part to use less plastic).
Eat In
If you have the option, choose accommodations that offer kitchen facilities and head to the local market upon arrival to pick up a few healthy items you can prepare on your own. Often times, when eating in a restaurant we consume larger portions prepared with rich ingredients. Not only will eating a few meals at home be healthier for your waistline, it will also be easier on your wallet!
Don’t Skip Your Workout
One of the most interesting ways to see a new city is by jogging through the neighborhoods or biking through the parks. Nowadays, many hotels and resorts offer fitness programming, from yoga to guided group runs. Do your best not to let travel be your excuse for missing out on regular healthy activity.
Wash Your Hands
Plain and simple – wash frequently and with soap. There are lots of germs out there. When you are out of your normal microbiome and your body is run down from traveling, you may be more susceptible to picking up a virus.
Check the CDC
Reference the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for your destination. Be sure to do this in advance of your departure date in case the recommendation is a vaccination. From Zika to Malaria, it is important to be aware of what risks you may encounter while traveling, and what you can do to help mitigate your chances for becoming infected.
Have Fun
Traveling is incredibly rewarding, especially if you can remain healthy and energized while doing so. The more proactive you can be to maintain your wellbeing on the road, the more you can enjoy the adventure. Next time you hit the road considering trying our tips to stay healthy while traveling, and have fun!
Sources: