Simple Doctor-Recommended Tips to Stay Healthy While Traveling Nobody wishes to return from a dream holiday with a fever, sore throat, and upset stomach. But hectic airports, disrupted sleep patterns, and new surroundings can catch up with your body and immune system. The good news is that some basic preparation can keep you healthy while traveling. Health professionals indicate that air travel increases your chances of becoming ill — but if you're in the habit of doing it just right, you can protect yourself. Primary care doctor Dr. Barbara Bawer says she always wears a mask on every flight. "It reduces the opportunity for airborne virus transmission and prevents me from touching my face," she says. Airports and aircraft are petri dishes for germs, so wearing a mask still does a lot of good, particularly when you're near other people. And yet another important rule! Clean hands. Frequently washing hands and applying sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol stops illness. Cleaning your tray table, seatbelt, and armrests with disinfecting wipes is also a simple way to minimize germs on the plane. Stay hydrated. Flying dries you out in a hurry, particularly on long flights. Do not drink on a plane, drink plenty of water, and bring electrolyte powders or tablets along to boost hydration and energy levels. Vitamin C, nasal sprays, and a small amount of petroleum jelly up your nose can also keep out dry air and germs on a flight. Physicians also suggest flying during off-peak hours at airports. When you return, rest and acclimatize for a while before resuming work or activities. Travel simple when you travel: sleep well, eat nutritious snacks, put on sunscreens, spray insect repellent, and carry a small medicine kit with you — such as painkillers, allergy medication, and stomach medicine.
When you are traveling to a tropical isle or trekking in the mountains, it is not that tough to stay healthy. A little bit of planning can make your journey hitch-free and disease-free. Travel is not just about going to new locations, but being a respectful guest there. Take care of your body, be kind to others, and be environmentally conscious. Choose plant-based souvenirs, travel less whenever possible, and leave your destination as you found it, if not improved. The best souvenirs are those that don't hurt the earth. Visit onegreenplanet.org and download the Food Monster App
