The holidays are all about getting together with family and friends – which means you may be doing a lot of traveling. And with travel comes exposure to germs, viruses, and infections. That’s why we put together this guide of the most useful tips for staying healthy when traveling during the holiday season.
1. Wash Your Hands and Sanitize Areas Around You
Frequently washing your hands is one of the best ways to reduce your chances of getting sick. When soap and water aren’t an option, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer to prevent picking up and spreading germs. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth unless your hands are clean.
Did you know cold and flu viruses can live on hard surfaces like armrests, doorknobs, and seat trays for 24 hours? You can get sick from touching a contaminated surface and then touching your face. Keep a small pack of antibacterial wipes in your carry-on bag and wipe down all the hard surfaces around you.
2. Stay Hydrated and Pack Healthy Snacks
It’s always important to stay hydrated – and it’s even more crucial when you’re traveling. It’s easy to get dehydrated in a plane’s dry, recycled. So, make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and avoid alcohol and sugary drinks that contribute to dehydration.
Airport and airplane food can be unhealthy and expensive. That’s why packing healthy snacks, like nuts, fruit, and protein bars. Having healthy, nutrient-rich foods on hand is a great way to keep your energy levels up so you can fight off germs.
3. Get Plenty of Quality Sleep
One of the easiest ways to stay healthy is by getting good, quality sleep. When traveling, it’s easy to neglect your regular bedtime routine. But if you want to stay healthy over the holidays, getting enough sleep is critical for keeping your immune system functioning at its best.
If you struggle with sleeping on planes, trains, or buses, consider using noise-canceling headphones and a sleep mask. And if you’re staying with family or friends for the holidays, make time to rest and get a good night’s sleep to stay healthy and energized.
4. Eat Immune-Supporting Foods and Take Vitamins
A healthy diet helps keep you healthy. Unfortunately, the holidays are also the start of cold and flu season, so take extra precautions by increasing immune-supporting foods. Citrus fruits are excellent sources of Vitamin C, minerals, and antioxidants, so add them to your meals and snacks throughout the day.
Want to give your body an extra boost during the holiday season? Vitamins C and D help boost your immune system so you can fight germs and viruses. Consider taking vitamins and supplements to fill any gaps in your diet and boost your immunity.
5. Get Your Body Moving
Sitting for long periods is hard on your body, so get up and move around as often as possible on travel days. Walk around the airport and do simple stretches to keep your muscles loose and your circulation flowing.
Staying active benefits your physical and mental health – and it also helps fight illnesses. So, go out of your way to be active this holiday season. Take a walk before breakfast or after dinner or do a simple strength and stretching routine in your hotel room.
Visit Good Life Family Medicine for Same-Day Care
Take advantage of these helpful travel tips to keep you healthy this holiday season. But if you feel under the weather, don’t wait to make an appointment. This holiday season, visit Good Life Family Medicine in College Station for same-day care whether you’re traveling or not. We’re experienced in helping families with the most effective treatment plan. We accept most major insurance providers, and affordable treatment is available for self-paying patients. Book an appointment online or call today.