Travel Tips for Healthy Summer Adventures
Summer is finally here, and it's the perfect time to embark on exciting adventures and explore new destinations. Whether you're jetting off on a plane, taking long car rides or exploring new destinations on foot, it's important to prioritize your health. Make the most of your summer vacation by keeping your health in check with these wellness tips.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water keeps our bodies cool, supports energy levels, and promotes general wellbeing, all of which are important while traveling. Dehydration can be brought on by dry travel conditions, such as airplane cabins that have low humidity levels. PIH Health Physician Augusto Rodriquez advises travelers, “Drink plenty of water before, during and after flights, and avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption, as they can contribute to dehydration.”
Pack Heathy Snacks
Eating healthy on the go can be challenging, but packing nutritious snacks can make a significant difference. Pack healthy snacks like nuts, granola bars or dried fruits to curb hunger and provide energy during long journeys or layovers. These compact snacks are great to fit inside travel bags or small purses. If you are traveling by car, consider bringing a small cooler filled with refreshing beverages and healthy eats like fresh fruit.
Stay Active
“Sitting for extended periods of time during travel can lead to muscle stiffness and decreased circulation,” says Augusto Rodriquez MD, “Incorporate simple exercises and stretches into your travel routine.” Stand up during flights to perform leg stretches, shoulder rolls and neck rotations. If you are taking long drives this summer, schedule time during your journey to stop and get out for short walks and stretches.
Practice Good Hand Hygiene
“Traveling exposes you to various germs and bacteria. Maintain good hand hygiene by washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content,” states Augusto Rodriquez MD. Avoid touching your face and use tissues or the inside of your elbows to cover coughs or sneezes.
Protect Your Skin
When enjoying the summer sun, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Travel size sunscreens are great to keep in your bag and make reapplying every two hours easier. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and lightweight, loose-fitting clothing to further protect your skin from the sun's rays.
