By Malika Comfort, nutraMetrix Global Operations Manager
Each year people travel to be with friends and family for the holidays, and traveling can be fun and exciting, but also worrisome and exhausting. While there was a period of decline in travel, travel by car, plane and train increased by about 34% from just 2020 to 2021. (1) What hasn’t changed in travel, however, is good travel protocols no matter which mode of transportation you decide to use. Here are a few tips to help keep you, your family, and friends safe and healthy during this holiday travel season.
Plan for Regular Routines
Family time is for relaxing of course, but you should still have a planned schedule in place that includes health routines. For instance, if you have a consistent workout schedule, be sure to plan time for exercise during your stay. Even if it’s simply taking walks after dinner or stretching throughout the day, make sure your body doesn’t miss out on what it’s used to. Remember to pack your supplements and stay on track. These routines will help support your immune system to keep it working properly.
Plan to Dress Accordingly
We can all agree that weather has been a bit unpredictable these days, so you’d want to make sure you pack enough clothing and gear to keep you warm, or for rain should that be the forecast. Although you may be visiting a hometown or a place you’ve visited frequently, the weather may be a bit different than in the past and being prepared will help you feel better in outdoor activities. (2) Dressing in layers makes it easier to adjust to daily temperatures, so light sweaters or jackets are a plus. Perhaps check the weather forecast for your vacation location to help plan appropriately.
Plan for Healthy Meals
Eating healthy snacks during travel may be one of the most challenging feats but can be a victory if you plan well. Traveling by car is easiest since you can pack healthy foods ahead of time or stop at a variety of places that provide healthy selections. By train or plane not so much, but still achievable. Here is a list of options that can hold you over until you get to a hot and healthy meal:
Water – instead of grabbing a high caloric beverage, purchase water and sip on this throughout out your travel. Water will keep you hydrated and feeling well. (3)
Nuts – most airport or train stores will sell a variety of mixed nut choices. Nuts are a high source of protein and can help you feel satisfied in between meals.
Fruit – if there are fresh fruit options, grab them! Fiber in fruits like apples and bananas will keep you full until your next meal; and a combination of fruits and nuts are even better.
Plan for Unforeseen Circumstances
Traveling can be full of surprise, and so having a plan B may help you get to your destination safely. If traveling by car, be sure that your vehicle is in great driving condition and has all the safety items you’d need in case of road trouble. Below are suggestions to travel with:
Traveling by car
- Roadside assistance numbers readily available
- Road maps
- Extra non-perishable food and water
- OTC pain relievers
- A restocked safety/first aid and emergency roadside kit
- Book of matches
- High quality Flashlight with new batteries
- Small tool pouch
- Eyeglass repair kit
- Warm or electric blanket and small pillow
- Hiking boots or comfortable sneakers
- Portable phone charger
- Portable car battery jump starter
- Communication plan with friends or family (including planned routes, arrival ET, and multiple check-ins and share route apps if traveling alone)
Traveling by train or plane
- Small airport approved first aid kit
- OTC pain relievers
- Extra charger
- Warm or electric blanket and small pillow
- Eyeglass repair kit
- Portable phone charger
- Communication plan with friends or family (including planned routes, arrival ET, and multiple check-ins and share route apps if traveling alone)
If there’s anything you can control this travel season, it is how well you prepare for it. You may not escape all the frustration that comes with the hustle and bustle of busy airports or stations, traffic, and other travelers on a mission, but you can surely be ready for it. Travel well and have a safe and happy holiday travel season!
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.