For many, traveling is the main way to recover from the daily demands of work. Planning your trip and getting to your location of choice can be stressful though, and lead to illnesses that disrupt your plans for relaxation.

Luckily, there are some rules you can follow to help keep you healthy during your travel.

Healthy Travel: Rule 1

Drink plenty of water.

Staying hydrated is key if you want to hit the ground running when you arrive at your location.

Drinking enough fluids lessens the effects of jet lag and decreases motion sickness.

Hydration also helps lower the risk of developing leg clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – a very painful condition that hinders your ability to walk.

Make sure to avoid alcohol and carbonated beverages. The former causes dehydration and the latter will introduce gases to your already stressed digestive system.

Healthy Travel: Rule 2

Stay active.

Sliding in some exercise during travel can significantly increase your mood and energy.

Even if it is stretching a little or walking down the aisle of the plane, that is enough to improve your overall blood flow and decrease your risk of developing leg clots.

It is also important to exercise at your travel destination, as it will improve your immune system and help you overcome jet lag.

Healthy Travel: Rule 3

Eat well before your trip.

If you eat a good, healthy meal before your plane ride, car trip, or other mode of travel, you will have less digestion problems that come from eating airport meals or food that your body is not accustomed to.

Once you are travelling, avoid large, heavy meals and stick to consuming snacks.

Healthy Travel: Rule 4

Get some rest.

A good night’s sleep will help you maintain your energy during travel and decrease your stress.

A well rested body is also stronger against bacteria and viruses.

Even though it can be difficult, try to get some sleep during the plane or car ride.

Make sure to frequently rest your eyes and mind by glancing outside the window to avoid strain and motion sickness.

Overall, if you follow these rules, prepare well for your trip, and take care of your body, you have a high chance of arriving at your destination happy and healthy.

– Steffi