Are you planning a getaway before the summer ends? August is a popular month to travel in Michigan and check out all that our great state has to offer. As you get away this month, keep in mind these travel tips from us to stay healthy and happy on your trip:
H2O While on the Go
Staying hydrated is super important, especially while traveling! Start your day with a big glass of water and take a reusable water bottle with you in the car or on the plane. Dehydration can make you more tired, cause bad headaches, dry out your eyes, and just make you feel crummy. Drink that water while you are on the go and you’ll feel so much better, we promise!
Wash Your Hands
Vacations mean exposure to new places and things and…people. You don’t know those people and their habits. Take care of yourself and wash your hands. Often. If you can’t get clean soap and water, use hand sanitizer.
Pack Healthy Snacks
Road snacks are the best snacks, are we right? While an occasional Slim Jim or Twinkie won’t kill you, it's good to have some healthy snacks pre-packed in the car so you don’t overindulge at every gas station or rest stop. Think of foods that have sources of protein or healthy fats that will maintain your blood sugar levels and keep you alert while traveling like nuts, roasted chickpeas, and protein bars. Apples, bananas, and oranges travel well, and if you have a small cooler you can bring string cheese, yogurt, or baby carrots. You basically want enough that you won’t get hangry before your next meal.
Everything in Moderation
It’s vacation! Eat the rich food. Enjoy the ice cream. Drink that drink with the fun umbrella. But as with everything, don’t go overboard or you’ll be feeling it the next day.
If you are planning a decadent dinner, make good choices for a lighter breakfast or lunch. Don’t have ten fun drinks with umbrellas in them, and drink water in between. If you have donuts for breakfast, eat a salad for lunch. It’s called balance.
Rest is Best
It’s so easy to burn the candle at both ends while on vacation. You try to fit all the fun in – as much as possible! This can wear you out though and leave you susceptible to getting sick. Pace yourself. Listen to your body and take breaks if you need them.
Prioritize sleep and make sure you don’t burn out. This is your chance to rest after all and return to work more rejuvenated than before. Plan a rest day if you have a busy schedule so you have time to relax!
Move Your Body
While you are in the car (or flying), you want to make sure that you move your body occasionally. Stretch or do a lap or two at rest stops. Use the bathroom on the plane if only to get up and move a bit on the flight, or do some stretching in your seat. Your body was not made to stay still this much during the day while we are normally active.
Pack Wisely
Pack some good comfortable walking shoes with good arch support and socks that will not cause blisters. Speaking of blisters, make sure you pack that first aid kit, prescriptions, and any OTC medication you and your family might need on the trip. Bring sunscreen and bug spray and enjoy your trip!