It’s easy to get sick when you’re traveling, because your immune system is exposed to new environments and germs it isn’t used to fighting. Plus, if you tend to eat less healthy food on vacation, your body might be missing some key nutrients it needs to stay in tip-top shape.
Use these tips to keep yourself healthy:
Use hand sanitizer
You may want to use hand sanitizer after any outing in a public space, which, let's be honest, is pretty much constant when traveling. After riding public transportation or in a cab, be sure to clean your hands with sanitizer. You don't know who touched the handrails, doors or ticket machines before you.
>> Related: 10 ways to save money on gasoline during your summer travels
Carry sanitizing cloths
If you're traveling by bus, airplane or train, be sure to wipe down your tray table and arm rests, as these places often harbor cold germs. In fact, airplane tray tables were recently found to be the most germ-filled surface on an airplane. Carry sanitizing cloths for wiping down surfaces as well as hand sanitizer.
Stay hydrated
Drinking water is especially important when flying. The combination of cabin pressure and dry, recirculated air in planes can rob your skin of moisture and lead to dehydration. Water will keep you naturally hydrated and feeling great for when you arrive at your final destination.
>> Related: These 5 tips will leave your skin glowing even after a long flight
Exercise, exercise, exercise
Not everyone wants to exercise on vacation, but dietitians recommend getting as much exercise as possible to keep you feeling great. Walking tours and bicycle rentals are great ways to not only learn about your destination, but to also burn calories in the process.
>> Related: 10 road trip tips for every traveler
Fight motion sickness
If you're prone to bouts of motion sickness, your doctor may be willing to write you a prescription for promethazine, an anti-nausea medication used by NASA to fight space sickness and recommended by Dr. Joanne Feldman of UCLA's Department of Emergency Medicine. Feldman is considered an expert in motion-sickness treatments.
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