Traveling can be magical, but there’s always a risk of unexpected curveballs that throw a spanner in the works. Illnesses, injuries, and stress can all have a big impact on your experiences when taking a vacation or globetrotting. When planning a trip, it’s beneficial to be proactive in lowering risks. Here are some top travel health hacks to help you ensure your break is memorable for the right reasons.
Top Travel Health Hacks
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Nothing ruins travel plans like feeling sick or unwell. While it’s not always possible to avoid travel ailments, there are steps you can take to reduce risks. Our top travel health hacks include making sure you have the required vaccinations, prioritizing sleep and rest, staying hydrated, eating well, and protecting your skin from the sun.
Travel Vaccinations
Before traveling, it’s always wise to check recommendations for vaccinations. In some countries, there’s a high risk of developing diseases that can potentially be serious and even life-threatening. You can find information via health authorities online or medical professionals. In some cases, you’ll need to provide proof of vaccination to enter. Make sure you have sufficient time to complete the course if multiple injections are required.
Sleep and Rest
Many people find it hard to sleep when they travel. Whether you’re struggling with jet lag and changing time zones, you find it difficult to adjust to new routines, or you miss your home comforts, there are solutions. You can adjust your sleep routine slightly in the days and weeks before you go away if you’re worried about jet lag, take short naps during the day to beat daytime lethargy, and take sleep aids with you.
Examples include CBD products, aromatherapy oils, eye masks, earplugs, white noise machines, and soothing playlists and podcasts. If you’re looking for the best CBD gummies for relaxation, research online and get recommendations via reviews and testimonials. It’s important to seek advice from your doctor if you haven’t tried CBD before or you have underlying health conditions.
Diet, Nutrition, and Hydration
It’s common to indulge on vacation. There’s nothing wrong with treating yourself when you’re away, but it is beneficial to think about nutrition. Try to eat treats in moderation, include healthy, nutrient-rich foods in your menu, and always make sure you’re hydrated. If you’re drinking more alcohol than usual, or it’s hot, it’s particularly important to increase your intake of water. Aim for at least 2 liters every day. If you tend to drink more alcohol when you travel, alternate drinks with water or soft drinks, have some alcohol-free days, and opt for long drinks rather than shots.
Sun Protection
For many of us, nothing beats lying in the sun and feeling the warm glow on our skin. It’s wonderful to bask in the sunshine and relax listening to crashing waves or swaying palms, but UV exposure can be dangerous. Sun damage is one of the leading causes of premature aging. Sun exposure can also cause sunburn and heat stroke. If you’re on vacation or traveling in a hot country, always apply sun cream, avoid the intense midday heat, drink plenty of water, and moisturize your skin regularly. If you feel your skin burning, or it’s turning pink or red, sit in the shade. Experts recommend using SPF30 or higher. If you have fair skin or you’re susceptible to burning, you may need to use SPF50.