Staying healthy whilst traveling in the new normal
A lot of people travel for work (and pleasure when covid allows!) and while this can be fun, it can also have its downsides.
Not only is the air quality often poor in airports and on planes, but you are constantly surrounded by germs so it’s wise if you take some preventative measures before setting off which could significantly reduce the chances of getting ill while traveling.
1. Be sure to wash your hands before you travel
Of course, it is always smart to wash your hands before you eat or prepare food. However, don’t forget to do it one more time before getting on a bus, train or plane…and a couple of times whilst you’re on there too!
2. Drink lots of water
When traveling, it’s important to stay hydrated. Since your breathing may be obstructed, you can’t get enough oxygen into your body when flying or taking a bus. However, if you drink lots of water while traveling, it will help maintain normal brain function so that you can think clearly and make good decisions.
3. Take a probiotic or eat yogurt with live cultures
Travelers who consumed probiotics or yogurt with live cultures were less likely to catch respiratory infections than those who didn’t. Additionally, people who live a healthy lifestyle and eat lots of yogurt during the week are more likely to stay healthy while traveling.
There is also a chance that you may ingest good bacteria from your group’s shared utensils, which can help build up your immunity to fight infections. If you want to keep your immune system running smoothly and ward off any flu-like symptoms, take a dose of probiotics before and after flying/driving and eat yogurt regularly.
4. Take an antioxidant supplement with vitamin C and zinc for extra protection against germs
Antioxidants kill free radicals that cause cell damage, leading to cancer and other types of diseases. If you take an antioxidant supplement or eat lots of antioxidant-rich foods, it can help protect your cells from any damage. Additionally, vitamin C and zinc are known to help fight off the common cold and other respiratory infections.
5. Get enough sleep
It is imperative to get a good night’s sleep before traveling. If you are overtired, it will be difficult for your immune system to fight off any germs or illnesses.
6. Wear comfortable clothes that are easy to take off
If you are traveling by plane or car, be sure to wear comfortable clothes that you can easily take off. This will allow passengers and drivers to move around more freely in cramped spaces. It will also make it easier for you to be quicker in the cramped toilets!
7. Pack hand sanitizer, tissues, cough drops, and other essentials in your carry-on bag
It is always a good idea to pack hand sanitizer, tissues, cough drops, and other essentials in your carry-on bag. This way, you will have them readily available if you need them. If you are on a plane and feel like you are starting to get ill, you can take a couple of paracetamol and use some hand sanitizer to disinfect your hands. Likewise, if you begin to feel a tickle in your throat, you can use cough drops to soothe it.
8. Plan your trip to avoid high-risk areas during cold and flu season
If you plan on traveling, try to avoid high-risk areas during cold and flu season. This is especially important if you are travelling by train or coach because the area acts as a small enclosed space where germs can spread quickly.
If you’re going on tours like the Yangmingshan day tour, be sure to check the weather and other conditions in that place before traveling.
Traveling can be stressful and tiring, but it doesn’t have to take a toll on your health. By following these few simple tips, you can reduce your chances of getting ill while on the go. So don’t wait any longer and start planning your next adventure!
*This is a collaborative post.
