Taking a vacation is a great way to relax and recharge. But it’s important to make sure that you’re staying healthy while you’re away. Travel can be stressful, and it’s easy to forget about maintaining good hygiene habits.
Whether you’re going on a short weekend getaway or a long overseas journey, there are some key tips to keep in mind to help ensure a stress-free trip.
Here are seven travel hygiene tips to help ensure you enjoy your vacation without worrying about your health. Get ready to hit the road with confidence and peace of mind!
1. Pack the Right Supplies
When you’re traveling, the last thing you want is to forget your essentials. So, pack everything you might need to stay healthy and comfortable while away. This list may vary depending on where you’re going, but it’s a good place to start.
- First Aid Kit
- Medications
- Toilet Paper
- Soap
- Toothpaste Dental Floss
- Malaria Medication
Your hygiene supplies aren’t the only thing you need to remember. Your documentation and paperwork are essential for traveling. Don’t forget to get your visa in advance, so you don’t get stuck in travel limbo.
2. Keep Your Hands Clean
This may sound like a no-brainer, but washing your hands frequently while traveling is essential. Be sure to wash your hands after using the bathroom, before eating, and before bed.
For those times when you can’t wash your hands, using hand sanitizer can be helpful. This helps prevent the spread of illness and germs.
3. Prepare For Different Climates
Depending on where you’re going, the climate may differ from what you’re used to. This can cause your skin to dry out, become irritated, and get sunburnt more quickly.
When traveling to a drier climate, make sure to use moisturizing body lotion and sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Avoid using heavily scented products, especially in a drier climate, since they can attract bugs.
Wear loose-fitting clothing to protect your skin from the sun and keep you cool.
4. Wear a Face Covering
When traveling, you might visit a place with poor air quality, so you can wear a mask when the air is bad. If you have allergies, wearing a mask may also help protect you from irritants in the air, like pollen.
No matter where you’re going, it’s important to avoid touching your face. This can help prevent infection and illness, especially if you’re traveling in a group.
5. Maintain a Healthy Diet
When you’re traveling, you’ll likely eat out more than usual. This can lead to an increase in sodium, fat, and sugar intake.
Be sure to eat a healthy diet while on vacation to stay energized and healthy. It’s a good idea to eat a well-balanced diet, rich in vegetables and fruits, even while you’re traveling.
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and caffeine, and make sure to take time out of your schedule to get in a workout.
6. Stay Hydrated
Exposure to higher temperatures can lead to dehydration, so it’s important to keep hydrated. To do this, drink water, herbal teas, and electrolyte-rich drinks like coconut water or coconut milk. Avoid caffeinated, sugary drinks like soda.
Your skin can suffer if you’re not hydrated enough. Spending more time outdoors than normal can cause your skin to become more dry and sensitive, especially if you’re visiting a drier climate.
Get a manicure and pedicure to keep your hands and feet healthy and hydrated. Be sure to wear sunscreen and a hat when you’re outdoors. Also, be conscious of how much time you spend in the sun.
7. Get Enough Sleep
Taking time to rest while traveling can be difficult, especially if you’re traveling for work. However, getting enough sleep is important to stay healthy and energized throughout your trip.
If you’re traveling for work, make sure to get a good night’s rest before your trip to avoid getting sick. Also, try to exercise regularly to help keep you healthy while traveling.
Taking a break from life’s daily hustle and bustle is always a welcomed respite. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, it’s normal to experience some anxiety and stress.
However, this can become a problem if it interferes with your daily activities. If you follow these travel hygiene tips, you can enjoy your vacation while staying healthy and relaxed.
