Advice On Staying Healthy And Happy While Traveling

by SuzyQ

posted on 06/17/2009

Although most of us do our major vacation traveling during the summer, these travel tips are appropriate for any type of the year and are designed to keep you healthy while you're on the go. After all, you don't want to get to your destination and feel lethargic and dragged out, do you? If you keep these tips in mind, you'll be sure to have a pleasant trip … both going and coming home and everything in between!

Keep your blood flowing
When you're driving in a car, you always have the option of pulling into a rest stop or off the highway to take a break and walk around. That isn't always the case if you're stuck in a cramped seat on an airplane. However, there is a real danger of something called deep vein thrombosis, which can occur if you sit in a cramped position for any length of time. Basically, it's a blood clot that can cause pain - or worse. So when you're flying, ask for an aisle seat and every couple of hours or so, stand up and move around, just to get your blood flowing. While you're seated, move your legs up and down, flex your ankles, and do what you can to keep moving. Drink lots of water (avoid alcohol and caffeine) to keep hydrated.

Speaking of water …prepare for your flight by drinking extra water the day before
If you're flying, try to take in an extra 16-ounces of water the day before your flight and an extra 16-ounces the morning of your flight to help keep you from getting dehydrated. You can apply the same principle if you're traveling in a car, but automobile travel is a lot less dehydrating.

Bring along healthy snacks
Although airlines restrict what you can bring onto your flight, you can pack small packets of crackers, nuts, sandwiches and non-fluid type foods to eat while on the plane. Remember that most flights have eliminated meals as part of their cost-cutting measures, so you may be on the plane for a long time without having anything substantial to eat. You can always grab something to bring on the plane at the airport, but food from the vendors is extremely expensive and not very good for you, so keep yourself nourished with homemade snacks from your own pantry.

Watch how you lug your luggage!
Try to use a suitcase that has wheels so you can roll it along. But don't over pack your suitcase to the point that it is so heavy that you can't lift it. Remember that if you are carrying on your luggage, you will be expected to store it in the overhead bins. If it is too heavy, you won't be able to lift it, and you can't count on someone to be available to help you. Pack smart. Remember that most people only wear about 20 percent of what they bring with them!

Bring something to do.
There are frequently delays, so bring a book or magazine, a deck of cards, writing materials, crossword puzzles or Sudoku to keep you occupied if your flight is delayed. Although people watching at the airport is OK for a short amount of time, you'll get bored quickly. Make sure there is something with you to help you pass the time.

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