As summer rolls around and traveling becomes more prevalent, creating healthy habits while traveling is extra important. It is easy to get caught up in the fast-paced travel lifestyle, but health always comes first. People are more likely to get sick when their bodies are run down from lack of sleep, water and not enough food. Prioritizing simples necessities while traveling will make a difference in people’s physical and mental health. Whether you are traveling somewhere close to home or internationally, here are some helpful tips that keep your bodies content.

1. Water

Staying hydrated while traveling can be difficult due to the excitement of trying new drinks and being busy on a schedule. By carrying a reusable water bottle with you everywhere you go, drinking water can become easier. If that is unavailable, order water at every restaurant you go to alongside another drink (if ordered). Drinking water is a priority because if you get dehydrated it can lead to problems. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, cramps, headaches, overeating, etc. Since most people are busy while traveling, there is little time to rest, so water is essential to a healthy trip.

2. Sleep

Sleep and water go hand in hand because both are needed in daily life regardless if you are traveling or not. Sleep is an included health tip because it can be overlooked. Good sleep improves mood and health overall. Skipping out on needed sleep can lead to sickness whether you are traveling or not. Lack of sleep runs down your body and our immune system needs to rest. Making sure you get at least 7-8 hours of sleep will make your bodies feel so much better each day. With enough sleep you will have more energy to do planned activities for the day.

3. Healthy Snacks

Packing healthy snacks for a plane ride or road trip is a great way to boost your energy while traveling. Fresh fruit such as bananas, apples and oranges are essential snacks. These snacks have essential vitamins and minerals needed for your body. Some other alternatives for healthy snacks are granola, trail mix, protein bars, and nuts. Once you get to your destination, going grocery shopping and buying fruits, proteins, vegetables and grains is a way to maintain healthy eating habits. This is going to save money on going out to restaurants everyday and assist with getting what you need for your body. Traveling wears you down, so making sure you have breakfast to get energy and your day going is vital.

4. Staying Active

Another health tip is to stay active and plan activities that keep your body moving. It can be as simple as taking a walk in the morning. If you are driving a long ways, take breaks at gas stations and walk around. After getting to your destination, I am sure wherever you travel there is activities that keep you on your feet. Some ideas include hiking, bike tours, sightseeing, kayaking, etc. If you are in an area where places are walking distance, save the money and try to walk. At many hotels there are gyms which can be utilized if you are one to go to the gym.

5. Pack Smart

Packing smart means packing the essentials depending on the location. If you are going somewhere where it is warmer and has lots of sun, sunscreen needs to be packed. It helps protect your skin and even if you are not going somewhere that is known to be hot, bring it just in case. As said before, carrying a water bottle with you will make a difference in your health. Bug spray is another item that should be bought for unforeseen events that could happen while traveling. Lastly, over the counter medicine such as acetaminophen, motion sickness pills and ibuprofen are a safety precaution in case you or someone on your trip is feeling ill.

6. Hand Hygiene

Hand hygiene is an obvious health tip that is always a good reminder. Washing your hands helps prevent illnesses and the spread of germs. Especially while traveling, it is easier to be exposed to new bacterias and germs. Hand washing after every meal and activity will wash away germs that may have been picked up from others. Every time you stop at a gas station, or get to a new destination, using the bathroom to wash your hands is essential to a healthy trip.