As you prepare for travel in the coming weeks, here are a few things you should know before hitting the road. A recent survey by MarketWatch found that 60% of Americans plan to travel at least once this holiday season. Ensuring your health is in check can make the difference between enjoying your holiday and spending it under the weather.

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Stay Up to Date on Vaccinations

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First, ensure you and your loved ones are up to date on all your vaccinations. This is one of the easiest ways to prevent illness while you’re away from home. Most preventive care health benefits are covered at 100%, which can include vaccines like COVID-19, the flu, and Tdap. Reach out to your provider or primary care physician for clarification on what is included with your health coverage plan.

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Pack a Travel Health Kit

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It’s a great idea to make a travel health kit in case you start feeling unwell while you’re away. Essential items to pack include your prescription medications, vitamins, over-the-counter medications, and hand sanitizer to name a few.

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A few excellent travel staples for your health kit also include Oscillococcinum pellets and ColdCalm products from Boiron USA. These are easy to dissolve under your tongue and work quickly if you start feeling run-down, achy, or exhibit flu-like symptoms.

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Be Aware of Current Health Risks

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According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), this season may bring variations of COVID-19, the flu, and a few bacterial infections such as pertussis and whooping cough. Staying informed can help you take preventive measures and recognize symptoms early.

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Practice Healthy Habits

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Travel often involves standing in long lines, sitting in crowded quarters, and visiting with friends and relatives. In addition to staying up to date on vaccinations, here are ways to minimize your risk:

- Wash your hands frequently

- Boost your immune system

- Get enough sleep

- Keep stress to a minimum

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One effective way to boost your immune system is by incorporating foods rich in Vitamin E into your diet. Foods such as leafy vegetables, eggs, red peppers, pumpkins, and carrots can help prevent cell damage, protect you from illness, and strengthen your immune system.

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Review Your Health Coverage

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Before heading to your destination, familiarize yourself with your health coverage. Know your co-pays and deductibles, and understand when to go to the ER versus urgent care to avoid unnecessary bills. If you’re not already registered with a telemedicine provider, review coverage options before leaving town. Some physicians require an initial visit to establish care before scheduling sick calls.

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If you need a telemedicine appointment while out of town, prepare your environment in advance. Ensure you have a strong Wi-Fi connection and a quiet space to talk. Also, know the nearest pharmacy and its address in case the physician prescribes medication.

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Conclusion

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Traveling during the holidays can be a joyful and enriching experience, but it’s essential to prioritize your health. To recap, here are the top tips for staying healthy while you travel:

- Stay up to date on vaccinations

- Pack a comprehensive travel health kit

- Be aware of current health risks and practice preventive measures

- Incorporate immune-boosting foods into your diet

- Understand your health coverage before leaving town

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With these tips in mind, you’ll be better prepared to enjoy the holiday season and all the memories it brings. Safe travels and stay healthy!