How You Can Stay Healthy While Traveling: Part 1
Travel is a fulfilling addition to a vibrant life, especially during retirement. It can be a wonderful time to experience all of your adventurous dreams. Whether you are hiking in Peru or sipping cappuccinos in Italy, you will return home with rich memories and a broader perspective.
To get the most out of this experience, it's important to take steps to take care of yourself while you are trekking around the world. Through a combination of preventative health services and healthy habits, you can help keep yourself well during your travels. This two-part series will provide tips for prioritizing your health while traveling.
Part 1: Before Your Trip
Prior to departure, take the following steps to prepare for a healthy lifestyle while traveling.
Visit Your Doctor
Make an appointment with your doctor a month or so before your trip to notify them of your travels. Depending on your destination, you might need certain vaccinations or medications.
Plan with Your Travel Partner
Whether traveling with a friend, partner, or family member, it's important to know each other's health concerns. If you have any allergies or specific health conditions, make sure that your travel buddy is aware. If you plan to travel with a tour group, make sure the company knows, as well.
Pack a Basic First Aid Kit
Either purchase a small first aid kit or make your own. This will keep you prepared during minor medical situations. Your doctor might have specific suggestions for what to put in there.
Have an Emergency Plan
It is important to be prepared. When you book your accommodations, locate the nearest medical clinic or hospital.
Remember Your Medications
In the frenzy of packing, it's easy to forget your medication bottles. Pack ahead of time and make a checklist so nothing falls through the cracks. In addition, certain medications need to be kept on your person or carry-on luggage whenever traveling, so talk to your physician about any special measures you need to take. Unfortunately, this is a common mistake that many travelers make.
By taking advantage of preventative health services and planning ahead, you can set yourself up for a healthy trip. In the next part of this series, you will find tips on how to stay healthy during your trip. Bon voyage!
Remember: Talk to your insurance provider about insurance options and how your plan will function internationally. With this preparation, you can have a vacation full of wellness and joy.
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