Staying healthy while traveling: Essential tips for safe and enjoyable journeys

By Dr. Michael – Family Medical Practice

Travel is a rewarding and often essential part of life, whether for work, leisure, or family. However, staying healthy while traveling requires extra care. Being on the move can increase your risk of illness or make it harder to manage existing health conditions. A few simple precautions can go a long way in helping you stay well and enjoy your journey.

Preventing infections

When you're traveling, your exposure to unfamiliar environments, people, and food can

increase your chances of catching infections. Here are a few key tips to stay safe and stay healthy while traveling:

•  Avoid traveling when you're unwell. If you're sick, it’s best to postpone your trip. Traveling can worsen your condition and expose others to your illness.
• Get recommended vaccines or medications. Research any required or recommended vaccinations for your destination. Depending on where you're going, you might also need medications like antimalarials or preventive antibiotics.
• Be cautious with food and water. In areas where sanitation is a concern, avoid tap water, ice, and raw or undercooked food. Choose bottled or purified water, and opt for food that's freshly cooked and served hot.
• Practice good hand hygiene. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially before eating. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Protect yourself from insect bites. Mosquitoes and other insects can transmit diseases like malaria, dengue, or Zika. Use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets when necessary. Inspect your clothing and luggage for bugs and remove any that you find.
• Wear footwear. Avoid walking barefoot, especially in public places, to reduce the risk of parasitic infections and skin conditions such as fungal infections or warts.

Managing existing medical conditions

• Travel can disrupt your routine, which can make managing chronic medical issues more challenging. Here’s how to prepare:
• Bring all essential medications. Pack enough prescription medication for the entire trip, plus a few extra days' worth in case of delays. Some medicines may not be available at your destination.
• Carry necessary medical equipment. Devices like blood glucose monitors, syringes, CPAP machines, or orthopedic supports should be part of your travel essentials.
• Prevent blood clots during long flights. If you're at risk for deep vein thrombosis (DVT), consider wearing compression stockings. It also helps to stretch, flex your legs, and walk around the cabin periodically when safe to do so.

Adapting to the environment

Environmental changes, like climate, altitude, and local customs, can also affect your health.

Prepare by:

• Dressing appropriately. Wear clothing that suits the weather and your planned activities. Protect yourself from extreme heat or cold.
• Wearing sunscreen. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with adequate SPF to prevent sunburn, especially in sunny or high-altitude destinations.
• Staying hydrated. Air travel, hot climates, and increased activity can all lead to dehydration. Drink water regularly throughout the day.
• Practicing road safety. Learn and follow the local traffic rules. Use seatbelts, wear helmets when needed, and avoid risky transportation options. 

Before you go 

If you have ongoing health concerns, it’s a good idea to schedule a check-up with your healthcare provider before you travel. They can give you personalized advice, update any necessary vaccinations, and help ensure you're well-prepared for your trip.

Remember: staying healthy while traveling is not just about avoiding illness, but also about making your trip safe, enjoyable, and stress-free.

Safe and healthy travels! – Family Medical Practice
 

Dr. Michael Santos is a General Physician specializing in adult healthcare and disease management. He earned his medical degree from the Far Eastern University Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation in the Philippines. With over 10 years of experience in both hospital and private practice settings, Dr. Michael has successfully managed a wide range of general medical conditions and overseen medical evacuations.

FMP Healthcare Group operates medical centres in major cities, including HCMC, Hà Nội and Đà Nẵng, offering consultations with international doctors, check-up centres and emergency ambulance services.

Visit FMP Hà Nội 24/7 at 298I Kim Mã Street, Ngọc Hà Ward, Hà Nội.

To book an appointment, please call (024) 3843 0784, or contact via WhatsApp, Viber or Zalo on +84 944 43 1919, or email hanoi@vietnammedicalpractice.com