9 Areas To Focus on To Stay Healthy While Traveling

While traveling is a fantastic way to meet new people and explore new cultures, it can also increase the chances of getting sick. To stay healthy while traveling, be sure to follow the recommendations in these nine areas.

1. Elderberry

Whether you plan on backpacking across Europe or setting sail on a Southern Caribbean cruise, keep some form of elderberry handy. Elderberry has been used for many years as a natural remedy for sinus infections, colds, and other health ailments.

The most popular form of elderberry is syrup. It can be purchased at grocery stores, health stores, or directly from local developers. While many syrups need to be refrigerated after opening, some producers sell tinctures that are great options for travelers since they do not need refrigerated. Another alternative for people on the go is elderberry gummies.

2. Vitamin C

Vitamin C has antioxidant properties that support your immune system and help fight off germs. Plus, it promotes tissue development. Vitamin C can be taken through supplements or naturally via oranges, peppers, and broccoli. 

3. Hand Sanitizer

From the parking lot at the airport to the hotel and back, keep a travel-size bottle of hand sanitizer with you wherever you go. This handy liquid kills germs and bacteria that you come into contact with during your travels. Plus, it is highly convenient to have no soap to wash your hands with after using the restroom or before eating.

If you are traveling with kids, you will probably go through a good amount of sanitizer. Keep a large bottle at your hotel, and fill up the travel-size bottle as needed.

4. Disinfectant Wipes

What hand sanitizer does for the body, disinfectant wipes do for objects. Does the restaurant table look dirty? Does the desk at your hotel have fingerprints on it? Not sure how well the armrests were cleaned on your airplane seat? Use a wipe to clean off any questionable objects before using them. 

5. Water

Staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do to keep your body fueled and capable of fighting off sicknesses. Keep a water bottle with you throughout your travels. If you do not mind the weight, purchase a large bottle, like a half-gallon jug, to save trips to the sink.

Since you cannot bring liquids through security at the airport, pack an empty bottle and fill it at the drinking fountain once you have cleared security. Otherwise, you will be stuck paying expensive airport prices for a disposable bottle. 

6. Aisle Seats

Aisle seats on planes, buses, or trains expose you to more people and germs since you are by the walkway. Avoid these seats when possible, and opt for a seat by the window. 

7. First Aid Kit

Injuries happen when you are touring a vineyard, hiking the mountains, or eating dinner on a patio. Be prepared by keeping a small first aid kit in your purse or backpack. The kit should include bandages, wipes, tweezers, gauze, rubbing alcohol, and antibacterial cream.

8. Sleep

Though it may be tough getting shut-eye when there are so many anticipated adventures, try to get a good night's sleep each night on your trip. It is also essential to get adequate sleep in the nights leading up to your vacation. A lack of sleep before traveling can compromise your immune system.  

Make it a point to go to bed on time during your trip and the week prior. 8-10 hours of sleep each night is recommended for the average adult. 

9. SPF

Prevent sunburn by wearing SPF every day. Even on cloudy days, the sun can still damage your skin. Put SPF 30 or higher on your face and any body part exposed to the sun. Reapply throughout the day.

The last thing you want on an anticipated vacation is to fall ill. Knowing what areas to pay attention to and strategies to follow can increase your odds of staying healthy and enjoying your trip.