Traveling by charter bus is an extremely easy and convenient method to explore new places affordably. But if you happen to pick up an unknown illness while you’re traveling, your experience may take a turn for the worse.
How to Not Get Sick When Traveling
Keeping illnesses away while you’re traveling is a similar approach that you likely take while at home; the right hygiene routine combined with a balanced diet can help reduce the risk of getting sick while traveling.
We’ve compiled seven ways to stay healthy while traveling to ensure your next vacation is your most enjoyable one yet.
#1 Wash Your Hands
An action as simple as washing your hands while you’re traveling by charter bus can go a long way. Flu-like viruses will settle into your body at the most inopportune times, but the proper handwashing technique can stop germs in their tracks.
Make sure to use antibacterial soap when washing your hands with warm water and rub your hands thoroughly back and forth, not overlooking your thumbs. You should also get between your fingers and under your nails. Wash your hands for a full 20 seconds before rinsing and drying them with a clean paper towel.
If you aren’t able to access soap and water at any time throughout your vacation, make sure to bring an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with you to keep germs to a minimum. If you need to sneeze or cough, cover your mouth and nose with your elbow to reduce the risk of spreading those germs elsewhere.
#2 Stay Active
It may not be ideal to stick to an exercise routine while you’re on vacation if your goal is to relax. But moving your body while you’re on vacation can reduce your risk of getting sick by keeping your immune system strong and healthy.
Many vacations lend themselves well to exercising naturally. Consider walking as often as possible while exploring a new city or make sure to do some stretches or ab work when you wake up in the morning.
You don’t need to dedicate hours on end to keep in shape while on vacation. If you’re mindful of incorporating movement into your routine from the start, you’ll quickly realize that adding physical activity into your trip can even be enjoyable. Opt for the coffee shop down the road or walk to the next photo op instead of taking a taxi everywhere.
#3 Get as Much Sleep as Possible
Many people travel to escape reality and to give themselves a much-needed break. Both while you are traveling and when you get to your end destination, aim to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep.
Your body needs the right amount of sleep to properly function, especially if you are traveling. As you enter different time zones and explore new places, your body will need a full night of sleep to keep your immune system strong.
Prioritizing sleep throughout your trip can be a helpful way to keep your body free from viruses.
#4 Be Mindful of What You Eat
Just as your diet impacts how you feel when you are at home, the same holds true when you are on vacation. While it’s always enjoyable to indulge in the local cuisine, try to include a variety of healthy foods into your vacation diet as well. These vitamins and proteins can help your body operate at full capacity.
If possible, scope out the local food scene before traveling to see if you will be near grocery stores. Having access to stores can help you stock up on healthy snacks or light breakfast foods instead of eating every meal out.
Always be mindful that there is a risk of food contamination while traveling. The bacteria in local foods may not align with what your stomach is used to, so we recommend that you stick to freshly prepared foods that are cooked all the way through.
#5 Pack Your Own Snacks
If you’re committed to eating the local cuisine as much as possible throughout your trip, consider packing your own snacks to eat throughout each day. There won’t be a shortage of greasy, unhealthy snacks to consume throughout your trip, so packing healthier options can help keep your immune system healthy.
Examples of healthy, portable snacks to keep on hand include apples, trail mix, healthy granola bars, or even beef jerky. Stash some healthy, filling snacks into your suitcase before you leave, you’ll thank yourself later.
#6 Stay Hydrated
The excitement of traveling makes it easy to forget about simple things such as drinking enough water. However, drinking tap water while traveling can be tricky if you are in a city that doesn’t have safe drinking water.
To avoid the risk of getting sick from unsafe drinking water, it is recommended to opt for bottled water instead. Always double-check that the seal hasn’t been previously broken before taking a sip.
Consuming water-based foods like hydrating fruits is also an effective approach to staying hydrated and full throughout your trip.
#7 Get Vaccinated
Although it may sound extreme, getting vaccinated before traveling can significantly reduce your risk of catching potentially dangerous illnesses while traveling. Conduct some research before your trip starts to see if you need to get vaccinated for region-specific illnesses that may be present.
Keep a record of any vaccines that you get in case you need to reference them at any time.
Conclusion
Being mindful of how to prevent getting sick when traveling can help reduce your risk of catching unexpected flu or illness while you’re on vacation. Plus, at Chicago Motor Coach, we’re happy to provide you with the transportation you need to make your next trip that much more enjoyable.
From corporate events to sporting events to a private event, we’ll make sure you enjoy every minute of your next getaway. Book with us today.