5 Ways to Stay Healthy While Traveling
Adopt a go-to travel exercise routine
If you travel regularly, create an exercise routine that can easily be adapted to your environment and that you can commit to when you’re on the go. Your routine should be simple and short, with exercises you can do in a hotel room, a gym, a park or even on a beach. If you are a runner, make sure to pack your running gear. Running is a great way to discover a destination from a different angle. If working out isn’t your thing, simply allocate 10 minutes in the morning to stretch before you start your day and another 5 minutes at night. It’ll help you relax and energize your body.
Take walks instead of cabs or public transportation
If possible, choose to walk rather than hop in a cab, bus or subway. Walking is great for your health. It helps improve circulation, sleep and breathing. It also strengthens muscles, supports your joints and can lead to weight loss.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
You’ll find that a reusable water bottle will be your best travel ally. Once you get through airport security check points, fill up your bottle at a nearby water fountain and make sure you keep drinking water on the plane. Once you arrive at your destination, fill up your bottle before you leave your hotel room. Remember to check if it is safe to drink tap water at your destination. If not, ask the hotel for or buy unopened water bottles at a store nearby.
Commit to one healthy meal a day
While there is nothing wrong with trying new foods and enjoying big meals, having several rich meals per day can be hard on your body. If you are staying at a rental or an apartment-hotel, take advantage of the kitchen by cooking simple meals depending on your schedule. If eating out a lot, opt for vegetarian dishes, choose grilled options over fried, try some fresh seafood and look at the salad menu.
Sleep
Changing time zones, walking all day, carrying suitcases, all of these can be harsh on your body and your energy. Just being away from your own bed can make it hard to fall asleep. Make sure to rest and to get plenty of sleep by blocking out the lights, reducing the noise and turning your phone off. Incorporate these tips into your travel routine and feel refreshed and full of energy to enjoy your trips to their fullest.
Sometimes even the most careful traveler can’t avoid illness or injury. If you’re injured or sick, remember that our travel emergency partner, Assist America is here to help. You can download the free Assist America Mobile App. With it, you can access your membership details, membership ID card and list of our services. And you can call 24/7 Operations Center with the tap of a button.
Download it now before you're in an urgent situation. You'll need your HAP-exclusive code - log in to your hap.org account and select Assist America from the Quick Links.
Content brought to you by our partners at Assist America.
Categories: Get Healthy