How To Stay Healthy While Traveling

This Monday I will be guest hosting a special #MeAndMySuitcase. Together with the chat’s founder Stuti Shrimali (@junkkDNA), we will be discussing “Health.” As November is the month of health, Stuti approached me, asking if I would be interested in spreading awareness about this international initiative and encouraging others to build better health habits.

Health and hygiene are very important in my opinion, whether you are at home or on the road, and good habits are the foundation. Sometimes it is challenging to stay healthy on the road. You’re on holiday, with temptations from every angle to indulge, overeat and break out of your normal lifestyle. And sometimes you should! It’s okay to bend your routine on occasion, but keeping the big picture in mind, you shouldn’t let your health completely go by the wayside.

While traveling, there are a few simple things you can do to keep healthy that will not feel overbearing or cumbersome. Many of these you can incorporate into your everyday life back home, too.

• Pack Snacks. If you need a quick snack or are hungry, it is easy to go to the nearest fast food joint and pick up something. However, most of the time quick picks are unhealthy for the heart and loaded with calories. Pack your own snacks, like fresh fruit, veggies, nuts, and cheese to help curb your hunger. Not only is the food on hand in your bag, packing your own snacks is cost effective.
• Drink Plenty of Water. Water keeps you hydrated, serving many purposes. Often if you’re hungry, chances are you may be thirsty. Additionally, if you’re dehydrated you’ll feel tired. Water will keep you regular, feeling fresh, awake and on top of your game. Plus if you have a reusable water bottle, it’s easy to refill, which saves you money as you don’t need to buy new ones all the time and is also good for the environment.
• Stay Active. Although you may not have access to your gym or fitness videos while you’re traveling, there are countless ways to stay active on the road. For instance, walking or biking are two great ways to explore a new city. Feeling more adventurous? Sign up for an activity like rock climbing or snorkeling. Perhaps the hotel you’re staying at has a fitness center. Utilize what’s around you! It can even be as simple as taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
• Practice Good Hygiene. Wash your hands. It will help you from spreading germs, as well as prevent you from contracting a virus. Cover your mouth with your sleeve – not your hand – when you cough. You can even carry hand sanitizer and sanitation wipes with you. For instance, you can wipe down the area around your seat on the airplane.
• A Good Night’s Rest. Sleep rejuvenates your body and mind. After getting some shut eye, you’ll be eager and ready to explore again tomorrow. Even if you need a short nap in the afternoon, around 20 to 30 minutes, that’s okay, too; give your body a break.

Join us on Monday, November 9 at 5:30 pm CET (10pm IST / 11:30 am ET) to discuss more about “Health.” We’d love to hear your stories and tips! Below is a sneak peek of the questions we’ll be discussing.

Q1: Prevention is better than cure. What do you do to remain healthy on the go? #MeAndMySuitcase
Q2: If you (unfortunately) happen to get sick while traveling, what should you do? Share your experience(s) and tips. #MeAndMySuitcase
Q3: What medicines and other (health-related) products are typically in your travel kit? #MeAndMySuitcase
Q4: What’s in routine remains in routine even when you are traveling? Share that one health regime. #MeAndMySuitcase
Q5: Share a food dish you discovered while traveling that is considered healthy. Tell us about it. Got a photo? #MeAndMySuitcase
Q6: Have you ever picked up health tips on the road that you’ve incorporated back into your life at home? #MeAndMySuitcase