A Healthy Traveler Is a Happy Traveler–It Just Takes Planning

Truth: A healthy traveler IS a happy traveler! When we feel well–no matter where we are–we can dive right in and get the most from our experiences. We’re also able to meet the challenges that seem to be a natural part of exploring the world.

All safe and healthy travel begins before leaving home. It actually starts as soon as we decide to take a trip. Maybe even before, when we realize that we’re eager to see the world. We can prepare for any type of adventure and be ready to go!

5 Ways to Become and Stay a Healthy Traveler

The focus of all smart planning: Prevention. And if something crops up: Act Quickly! Here are five important ways to give you the healthy traveler advantage:

Immunizations for Travelers: Stay Healthy Out There! If you like to go places and eat–of course you do!!–make an appointment with your healthcare provider for a couple of immunizations at least a month before international travel. No one likes shots. But boosting your body’s immune system pays off if you’re the victim of unclean water or a nasty cut. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a terrific website for travelers, constantly updated for any country. Check the site for international journeys.

OTC Medications Every Traveler Should Pack I believe in preparing for the common ailments that accompany any kind of travel: aches, rashes, scrapes, diarrhea… Any of these can slow you down. Or send you on a midnight hunt for a pharmacy. Why not just pack what you might need and take the brands you trust? It’s fun to try a new toothpaste from your destination, but not so jolly acting out your symptoms so a pharmacist can help. A small ziplock bag can hold everything for easy access. Just do it.

Jet Lag: How to Prevent…and Cure It There was a time when I was convinced that jet lag could be cured by a cheerful demeanor. Mind over matter. A stiff upper lip. Then I slowly (too slowly, to be honest) realized how wrong I was. It’s real and it’s crummy. But there are some proven ways to prevent or minimize it. And if it happens anyway, to deal with it quickly. Don’t be like me and resist it–plan ahead, you healthy traveler!

How to Care for a Blister When You Travel “An army marches on its stomach,” said Napoleon or Frederick the Great, depending on the source. I’d argue that feet without blisters are maybe more important. If you can’t walk, you can’t get to those cute cafes or renowned restaurants to fill your stomach. Of course you have comfy shoes. But maybe those cobblestone streets cause a “rub” or your new socks look smashing, but are a tad tight. Don’t wait, promise me. Stop and fix it.

Travel Medical Insurance: 5 Things You Must Know Another confession: I also thought travel insurance was out of my budget, that the kind hospitals would treat me for free. I know, that makes no sense. After I bought it for my Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, the peace of mind that came with it was “priceless,” as the commercial says. Sh*t happens, and I’d hate to be stuck somewhere or have to declare bankruptcy in order to pay the bills. I like and use *Allianz Global; it’s good for “mature” explorers. You may prefer another company, but get the policy.