When we imagine healthy travel issues, most of us consider travel to exotic destinations where they have tropical diseases. Domestic travel can make you sick, too, though unless you take some precautions. Here are a few ways to travel healthy when traveling.
Medications Make sure you have any prescription medications that you need along with you. They should be in the original bottles, and you should keep them in your purse or carry-on luggage.
Make certain you have any over-the-counter medicines that you generally take, also. Acetaminophen, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids and antihistamines are always handy to have with you.
If you plan to do any sports or outdoor activities, you may want to carry a simple first aid kit.
Keep a list of all of the medicines you take and your medical history with you all the time. If you’re diabetic or have other health conditions, consider wearing a medicalert tag or bracelet, or carrying a medicalert card with you.
Immunizations Immunizations are essential for healthy travel. Make certain they are up to date. Determine when your last tetanus shot was and get one if it is been over 5 years, and make certain you get a flu shot. Planes, trains and buses are best breeding grounds for all kinds of viruses.
Wash your hands Wash them frequently. Carry antibacterial hand washing gel with you, and wash often. Germy people have touched everything, and those germs get on your hands after which they make you sick. The easiest way to prevent travel colds is to wash your hands a whole lot.
Drink a lot of water Travel has a tendency to dehydrate you. Airplanes, especially, have very dry air in them. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages because they tend to make you more dehydrated. If you are flying, avoid carbonated beverages because the gas expands while you are in the air, and you know what type of problems that can cause, especially for your seat mate. Bottled water is best if you are uncertain about the safety of local water.
Walk If you’re stuck in a bus, train or plane seat for long amounts of time, you are able to develop blood clots in your legs, which can be very dangerous. Get up and walk around as much as you can. Take a great walk at rest stops. As a general rule, you should not sit for more than a few hours at one time. If sitting is unavoidable, stretch your legs out and move them around frequently.
Follow these healthy travel hints and you can steer clear of most illnesses, even when traveling domestically.
