5 Ways to Stay Healthy When You Travel

Being sick is the worst, but being sick when you are away from home is even worse. So if you have travel plans coming up, whether business or for fun, there are a few things you can do to boost your immunity and hopefully keep the germs from cold and flu season away.

Wash your hands a lot- As simple as this tip sounds, it can really make a difference. Wash your hands before you eat, after using the restroom, after coming in contact with people that are sneezing or coughing, and when you return from public places be sure to lather up. Basically wash your hands often throughout the day.  Be sure to use hot water and lots of soap, too. Skip the hot air blowers in the public bathrooms and instead opt for paper towels. Get into the habit of using paper towels to open the bathroom doors so ensure you don't get germs on your clean hands from people who are not washing their hands.

Carry antibacterial wipes with you- Clean down surfaces while you travel. From door knobs, tray tables, seat belts, conference room and hotel tables, phones and chairs, and bathroom fixtures from the airport to the hotel to your destination-get rid of germs with antibacterial wipes. It may seem a bit excessive, but this is a great way to ensure you don't get sick.

Pass on the coffee and alcohol and be sure to drink a lot of water- Staying hydrated will help keep your entire body running well and able to fight off germs. It can be easy to skip out of water when you travel, but during cold and flu season it's extra important. It doesn't take long for the body to become dehydrated, even in cold weather.

Get plenty of sleep when you travel- Long nights and early mornings may cut into your regular sleep schedule, but this can quickly make you feel run down, exhausted, and open you up to getting sick. Try to stick to a normal sleep schedule when you travel and plan in time for rest. 

Stick to your exercise routine- Even if you have a busy schedule, it's a good idea to get in a workout or even a walk. You'll feel better and will be less likely to get sick when you exercise regularly.