Feeling your best when traveling is truly a balancing act.
Although you might want to experience all the local favorites a new destination has to offer, you also want to make sure you’re adhering to a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
These simple and effective tips will help lower stress and enhance the overall travel experience. You can implement all of them, or just try one or two—the strategies are designed to be easily integrated into any routine anywhere you travel.
Drink plenty of water—starting the night before.
You may try to avoid unnecessary bathroom breaks, but starting a trip dehydrated is a mistake. Staying hydrated prior to your flight is important, particularly if you’re heading to a warm climate. The key is to start the night before you travel.
Pro tip: Pack an empty reusable water bottle to fill up after getting through airport security.
Pack some superfood snacks!
Nothing keeps your energy up quite like a nutritious snack, but finding healthy food can be difficult at rest stops and airports. Be sure to pack some when traveling. That way, you’re never stranded without a healthy, delicious option.
Here are some go-tos.
- Dark chocolate: is made up of powerful antioxidants that fight free radicals, which are the culprit in premature aging. The polyphenols and flavonoids in dark chocolate are basically the cleanup crew in the cells—they boost the immune system, brighten our skin, strengthen our hair, and give us sustained energy.
- Walnuts: high in omega-3 fatty acids, which protect the brain and improve cognitive health. Their high levels of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals also improve mental alertness.
- Berries: another excellent source of antioxidants—meaning they fight stress and boost our immune system when we travel.
- Beef Jerky: Protein is a great way to keep you energized and satisfied. Look for grass-fed and organic meat. Grass-fed meat is better for you since it’s higher in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids.
When you land, go for a walk.
After sitting on a long flight or car ride, you need to get your body moving right away. Take a 20- to 30-minute walk when you arrive to get some fresh air. It will help loosen up your muscles and help you explore your new destination.
Get enough sleep.
It can be tempting to burn the candle at both ends prior to leaving. You’re balancing packing, ensuring your family has everything they need, as well as tying up loose ends. It’s important not to fall into the trap of the “I’ll rest when I get there” mentality. Strive to get eight hours of sleep a night in order to recharge and enjoy the rest of your trip.
You *actually* need to detach from work.
Leaving work and technology at home can boost your energy and creativity. It can also ensure you’re more present with your family and recharged for work on your return. However, as much effort it takes, resist the urge—or addictive craving—to pick up your device and start scrolling through emails or the news, it is going to be well worth it!
Protect your skin.
Remember to protect your skin from the UV rays of the sun by wearing sunscreen before you leave your hotel or rental, and topping up during the day. Especially when the place you’re visiting is warm and sunny. Wear a sunblock cream with a high and suitable SPF.
There you have it, tips and tricks that will help keep you in excellent physical and mental condition while traveling. Apply these tips next time you’re taking a vacation, and you’ll make the most out of your travel while knowing you were healthy enough to enjoy every moment of it.
Happy travels!
Need help to feel your best?
Click the button below to schedule an appointment and make this the year you feel better, get stronger, and improve your life!
No referral is needed to start and with several convenient locations across Western New York and the option of virtual care, you can find a time that works with your busy travel schedule!
Schedule
