Travelling is fun and exciting, but health problems can ruin your trip and leave you desperate to come home. Health issues like dehydration and traveler’s diarrhea are extremely common and certain destinations also put you at risk of serious diseases like malaria. The good news is, there are plenty of ways to stay healthy while you’re away. Here are top health tips to improve your travel experience:
Drink plenty of water
It can be easier to forget to drink when you are traveling, especially if you visit a country where the tap water is unsafe to drink. Dehydration is a common complaint among travelers and can be fatal if left untreated. Healthline.com states that the signs of dehydration include fatigue, dizziness, dry mouth, constipation, and headaches. Travelers have a higher risk of dehydration if they visit a country with a hot climate or experience diarrhea or sickness while traveling. You should aim to drink at least two liters of water a day, more if you are doing physical activity or sweating. Make sure that you take enough water with you if you are going out for the day and purchase a reusable bottle to save you buying lots of plastic water bottles.
Have your vaccinations
You must check whether you need to have any vaccinations before you travel abroad. Certain countries have a high risk of diseases like malaria and yellow fever. A vaccine can protect you from infection from some diseases and help you stay healthy while traveling. Keep in mind that many vaccines need to be administered at least 4 to 6 weeks before you travel. You may also require a course of several shots if you are having a rabies vaccination, for example. Make your travel plans early and contact a travel medical clinic as soon as possible to book your vaccinations. You can visit the CDC’s travel website to check what vaccines are recommended at your chosen destination.
Buy contact lenses
Many people who wear glasses switch to contact lenses when they go on vacation. Wearing glasses can be difficult when you are traveling, especially if you plan on swimming or doing adventure activities like sailing or jet skiing. Glasses may become damaged when you are away and restrict what activities you can do. UV contact lenses are the perfect option when traveling as they are easy to use and will give you much more freedom and flexibility. Make sure that you purchase enough lenses for your trip with a few spares.
Pack essential medication
It is a good idea to pack a first aid kit containing medication in case you get sick or injured while you are traveling. Some essential medications to pack are plasters, bandages, insect repellent, antiseptic cream, and painkillers like paracetamol. You should also buy some diarrhea tablets and rehydration sachets in case you get an upset stomach while traveling.
Following these tips will help you stay healthy while traveling and enjoy your next vacation to the fullest!