Traveling is an exciting opportunity, but if you’re health conscious, you’ll still want to prioritize your well-being as you explore new sights. Maintaining good health while on the road or in the air makes for a more enjoyable and healthy travel experience and allows you to make the most of every moment.
Here are some tips to keep you healthy and energetic during your trip:
Book activity-based excursions
Consciously book active excursions such as walks and hikes. These activities allow you to explore the natural beauty and culture of your destination while staying fit.
Be mindful of your food choices
Prioritize a balanced diet while on the road if you want a healthier travel experience. Fill your plate with lean proteins like chicken or tofu and add fiber-rich vegetables to keep you fuller for longer. However, don’t miss the local flavors: make an effort to enjoy regional dishes. Remember, it’s the holidays, so leave room for the occasional treat or dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Resist the temptation to skip meals, as this can lead to overeating later in the day. Instead, enjoy regular, nutritious meals to keep your energy levels stable. Eat slowly, savor every bite and really enjoy the delicious food around you.
Drink your water
When you’re on the go, it’s easy to forget the simple habit of staying hydrated. Long flights, changing climates and increased physical activity can lead to dehydrationresulting in fatigue and headaches.
Make a conscious effort to drink enough water during your trip. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it regularly to keep your body energized and your skin glowing.
Keep healthy snacks on hand
Carry a supply of healthy snacks in your bag so you can travel healthier. Long trips often bring limited and sometimes unhealthy food options. By keeping nutritious snacks on hand, you always have a healthy and satisfying alternative.
These snacks can keep your energy levels high and curb unhealthy cravings, all while not having to rely on less nutritious options on the go:
- Nuts
- Whole wheat crackers
- Protein bars
- Dried fruit
- Rice crackers
- Dark chocolate
- popcorn
- Roasted chickpeas or edamame beans
- Trail mix
- Jerky
These snacks are especially helpful during unexpected delays or long excursions, keeping you energized and focused on the experiences ahead.
Get enough sleep (even on the plane)
Prioritizing sleep is essential when traveling. A lack of sleep can weaken your immune system, making you much more susceptible to picking up bugs or viruses. Put your well-being first by packing a neck pillow and eye mask for long-haul flights so you can catch some much-needed shuteye.
Try stick to your normal sleep schedule as much as possible – diverging can make it harder to get a good night’s sleep. Whether crossing time zones or adapting to a new environment, a well-rested traveler is better equipped to enjoy their trip to the fullest.
Fly privately
If you want more control over your travel experience or want to reduce the risk of contracting a communicable disease, chartering a private flight is a good alternative.
The combination of recirculated air and the increased pressure levels on commercial flights can lower blood oxygen levels by 5% to 20%, leading to symptoms such as headache – a common symptom of hypoxia. A private flight offers a more personal and controlled environment, allowing you to control air quality and reduce potential health problems.
Book accommodation with training facilities
Book a property with a gym or fitness center as a convenient way to stay active during your trip. If these facilities are not available, you can try home workouts with minimal equipment or bodyweight exercises. Many fitness apps offer quick and effective routines, perfect for smaller spaces.
Plus, prioritize your health by adding leisurely walks to your itinerary so you can explore your destination while getting some exercise. Whether it’s a brisk morning walk through a local park or an evening stroll along the beach, integrating exercise into your travel routine will help you stay fit during your travels.
Don’t skip the sunscreen
When traveling to sunny destinations, make sure you protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Apply sunscreen regularly, wear a hat and stay in the shade during peak hours. Make sure your sunscreen is good SPF 30 or higherproviding maximum protection and preventing long-term sun damage.
Stay healthy wherever you are
Prioritizing your health during your travels is a valuable investment in your future well-being. Just because you’re on the go doesn’t mean you have to stop your healthy habits.
With a few adjustments and mindfulness, you can make health your main focus, no matter where you are in the world.
Author biography
Oscar Collins is editor-in-chief of Modified, where he writes about health, fitness and more. Follow him on Twitter @TModded for regular updates on his work.
