LPN to RN Blog

Whether you are a college student flying back and forth every semester between home and school or a travel nurse hopping from city to city, staying healthy while traveling is an important thing. All of the stress and strange places associated with traveling can take a serious toll on your health. However, there are simple things that every traveler can do to ensure that illnesses do not ruin travel or vacation time.

One of the best ways to prevent catching an illness while traveling is to be healthy in the first place. If you are already in shape, chances are your immune system will be tough enough to handle any of the nasty bugs that it may cross paths with during your road trip or flight. This means that you should be sure to maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise regime so that you will not have to worry every time the guy behind you on the airplane sneezes. For the weeks leading up to your travel time, do what you have to do to reduce stress as well. If you typically can travel with little to no stress, then you do not have to change anything. However, if the very thought of traveling causes your heart rate to increase and your palms to get sweaty, consider planning out as much of your trip as possible and allowing yourself plenty of time to take care of things so that you will not feel as stretched – stress can weaken your body’s defenses, making it easier for you to get sick.

While traveling, be sure to drink plenty of water and rest as often as possible. If you are traveling on a long flight, keep hydrated, sleep often, but also make the effort to get up and walk around the airplane cabin frequently during designated times. This will allow your circulation to flow better than if you stayed seated for the entire flight. Be sure to eat regularly as well. If you must pack snacks, pack snacks that are nutritious as well as filling, such as dried fruit.

Once at your destination, you will need to watch your diet. Feel free to sample the local fare, but be sure that you are still getting your daily dose of vitamins and minerals from vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. In addition, wash your hands regularly to prevent germs from making you ill.

The key to warding off illness while traveling is to simply do the things you normally do to stay healthy. This includes eating well, exercising, and making sure that your hands are clean at all times.