10 tips for healthy travel

1. Drink plenty of water

Staying hydrated is always important, but it’s something you may need to be more mindful of when you’re travelling – when you’re out and about in different places, away from your usual routine, it’s easy to forget about getting enough fluids. Get in the habit of bringing a water bottle with you wherever you go, and if you’re being particularly active on your adventure remember that you will probably need to be drinking more water than usual.

2. Look for healthy food options

Do some research and scope out some healthy eateries in the vicinity. If you have a bit of an idea of where you can get nutritious food, you’ll be less likely to just stop by the first greasy place you see. Apps like Food Tripping can help you find healthy food options around your current location.

3. Snack smart

Make a trip to a grocery store one of your first stops and stock up on some healthy snacks you can take with you when you set out each day. Nuts, muesli bars, yoghurts and fruit can be great options for keeping you energised while you’re out exploring.

4. Don’t drink too much alcohol

For a lot of us, it’s inevitable that a holiday will involve a drink or two. But while you’re enjoying your beers or cocktails, try to resist the temptation to overindulge. Stay hydrated and limit your alcohol intake to a sensible amount, and your body will thank you later.

5. Be active

Take the opportunity to be active wherever possible when you’re travelling. Walking or cycling are great ways to explore a new place, and the extra exercise can help offset that delicious ice cream or world-famous burger you have to try! If you’re the outdoorsy type, activities like bushwalking, kayaking, surfing or rockclimbing can also be a great way to keep the heart rate up. And if not? There's always dancing…

6. Be sunsmart

Always protect your skin and your eyes from harmful UV rays while you’re out enjoying the sunshine – there’s nothing like a nasty sunburn to ruin your good time. If you’re going somewhere remote or less developed, pack plenty of sunscreen from home so you’re not caught out trying to find the right SPF in the local stores. Remember that even if it’s overcast, you still need to be careful. An app like BOM’s World Radar can tell you the UV forecast for your location.

7. Don’t forget your medications

If you take any medication, make sure you have enough with you to last the trip! Carry them in their original packaging with the label to save you some trouble if questioned at the airport. It’s also a good idea to bring the prescription or a letter from your doctor in case you need to get more while you’re away. It’s also important to note that some medications are banned in different countries, so check with the embassy of the count you’re visiting before you go.

8. Get vaccinated before you go

Before you head off, visit your doctor and find out if there are any immunisations you should have. For some destinations, certain vaccinations are compulsory; for many others, they are highly recommended. Your doctor can give you advice specific to your country and let you know about any other health issues you should be aware of.

9. Make sure you have good travel insurance

As well as not being very fun, getting sick or injured while you’re away can be very expensive – especially if you’re travelling overseas. Get covered with a good travel insurance policy (note: cheapest is not always best!) and read the fine print carefully to make sure you know what you’re really covered for.

10. Relax!

Give yourself permission to really take a break and give your mind and body a chance to recharge. If you can, try not to check work emails or worry about things you should be doing back home. Travelling is the perfect time to focus on your own mental wellbeing, and spend time with people who make you happy. Take time out from the usual stresses and pressures, and do the things that make you feel nourished, relaxed and vibrant.

Insure your health when you travel with Medibank travel insurance.