Staying Healthy & Safe While Traveling

Preventing Illness

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are several ways to keep you and your family safe while traveling:

• Do not travel if you or a family member is sick

• Wash your hands often (for at least 20 seconds), especially before eating

• If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol

• Avoid close contact with other people, keep a distance of at least 6 feet apart

• If traveling by car, try to stop as little as possible to avoid contact with others

• If traveling by plane, wipe down commonly touched surfaces with a disinfectant

Preparing for Travel

If we take the time to prepare our bodies for travel, we are much more likely to create a healthy and enjoyable environment for ourselves once we arrive at our destination. If you’re planning to travel outside of the country, consider speaking to your doctor to see if there are any specific vaccinations you need or medications that you should bring. Boost your immune system before jetting off by eating a healthy diet, especially foods that are high in vitamin C and other antioxidants. These foods include citrus fruits, bell peppers, kale, blueberries, tomatoes, strawberries, and broccoli. Hydration is especially key prior to traveling. Drinking plenty of water and getting lots of sleep before traveling can reduce the severity of jet lag.

Making Healthy Choices

Start by packing healthy, protein-packed snacks like nuts, protein bars, and jerky to stay ahead of hunger. If carrying snacks isn’t your thing, consider going to the local supermarket once you reach your destination. Avoid skipping meals to stay energized and satiated all day long! When you order meals, aim to fill at least half of your plate with vegetables. When choosing a hotel, consider accommodations that will make it easier for you to make healthy choices and be consistent with your health goals. For example, choosing a room with a kitchenette or mini refrigerator allows you to prepare meals in your room and keep healthy snacks on hand.