Tommy has over 15 years experience within the insurance industry, and his primary focus is helping travellers find the right cover for their medical conditions.
This World Health Day, amidst the excitement of planning and going on holiday, it's crucial to remember the importance of self-care. Holidays, while a break from the daily grind, can sometimes lead to neglecting our well-being, whether through overindulgence or disregarding our usual health routines. Taking care of oneself during these times is vital for ensuring that we return from our holidays rejuvenated and not in need of a recovery period. By prioritising our health, we ensure that our time off is truly restorative, allowing us to enjoy our experiences to the fullest while maintaining our physical and mental health.
Join us as we explore some simple ways you can look after yourself whilst on holiday.
1. Plan and Pack with Care
Packing Medication
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, remember to pack essential items like medications for any pre-existing medical conditions you may have. Make sure to take more than you need and pack half in your hand luggage, with the rest in your main luggage.
The last thing you want is for your suitcase to go missing, containing all your important prescription medications. At least this way, you will have some to keep you going, until you can either find your suitcase or find a pharmacy to obtain more.
READ MORE: Travelling with Medication
Pack a Medical Kit
Whilst packing medications is important, it is also a good idea to pull together a small first aid kit for anything thrown your way, whilst on holiday - you do not want to put your adventures on hold, trying to find a pharmacy for a plaster or painkiller.
There is nothing wrong with being prepared, these thoughtful preparations can truly make all the difference in enhancing your travel experience and allowing you to relish every moment of your holiday to the fullest.
READ MORE: 10 Essentials for your Holiday Medical Kit
Time Management is Key
Effective time management is crucial, particularly when preparing to travel. One of the most beneficial practices to adopt is avoiding the temptation to leave packing until the last moment.
Not only does packing ahead mitigate the stress associated with the last-minute scramble, but it also allows you to carefully consider each item you are taking along, potentially eliminating unnecessary clutter, and streamlining your luggage. Do yourself a favour and begin packing well in advance.
READ MORE: Mastering the Art of Packing
2. The Hydration Agenda
Ensuring you stay well-hydrated during your holiday is crucial for maintaining good health, particularly in warmer climates. Remember to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to keep your body functioning optimally and to enjoy your vacation to the fullest.
READ MORE: Which Fluids are Safe to Drink?
Flying and Hydration
When flying to your holiday destination, keeping hydrated is more important than you might realise. The air inside the cabin of a plane is significantly drier than what most of us are accustomed to, which can lead to dehydration if you are not careful.
Make sure to drink water regularly throughout your flight, avoiding caffeine and alcohol as much as possible, as these can exacerbate dehydration. Additionally, take time to moisturise and use lip balms to help combat the drying effects of the cabin air. This will help to keep you comfortable and well-hydrated, for your upcoming adventure.
Water Intake Reminder Apps
For those seeking an extra nudge to maintain optimal hydration levels throughout the day, there are user-friendly water intake reminder apps that can be potential game-changers. These innovative tools are readily available on your smartphone and serve as vigilant companions in your quest for wellness and hydration.
Tailored to your preferences, these apps send gentle yet persistent reminders at strategic intervals, ensuring that hydration remains at the forefront of your mind amidst your holiday distractions. Furthermore, they offer features to monitor your daily water consumption, providing valuable insights to help you achieve and maintain your hydration goals.
Pack Electrolytes
While staying hydrated with water is essential, especially in warmer climates where you are likely to sweat profusely, replenishing electrolytes is equally crucial. As you bask in the sunshine and engage in outdoor activities, your body loses vital electrolytes through perspiration, which can leave you feeling fatigued and depleted.
To combat this, ensure to pack some electrolyte powders or tablets. These convenient supplements provide a rapid and efficient way to restore electrolyte balance, offering a much-needed energy boost while safeguarding against dehydration.
Whether you are embarking on a hike through rugged terrain or simply soaking up the sun on a sandy beach, having electrolytes on hand ensures that you can sustain your energy levels and enjoy every moment of your adventure to the fullest.
3. Active Adventures
Active adventures during your holidays are a great way to commit to your overall wellness, going beyond just sightseeing. Enjoy engaging in activities like hiking, swimming, or yoga amidst holiday landscapes. Not only does it invigorate your body, but it also rejuvenates your soul, fostering a sense of holistic renewal and vitality.
Hotel Amenities
Making use of your hotel amenities, including the gym, adds an extra dimension of relaxation and well-being to your travel experience. After a day of sightseeing, take advantage of the hotel gym to maintain your fitness routine or unwind with a rejuvenating workout session.
Whether you prefer cardio exercises, weightlifting, or yoga, the well-equipped facilities cater to a variety of fitness preferences, ensuring that you can stay active and energised throughout your stay.
Exercise Without Knowing You Are!
It can be a bit challenging to fit exercise into our busy holiday schedules, especially with plans to lounge by the pool all day. Yet, when we opt to change out of our swimsuits, venture outside the resort, and explore a bit, we might end up getting some beneficial exercise without even realising it!
Exploring new destinations on foot, whether wandering through bustling city streets or scenic pathways, seamlessly merges adventure with fitness. As we soak in the lively beats of local life, discovering cultural treasures and hidden gems along our path, we effortlessly boost our daily step count without feeling like we're pushing ourselves too hard.
4. Mindful Munching
Eating is a quintessential part of travel, and sampling local cuisine can be an adventure itself. But it is still important to make mindful, healthy choices while out exploring. Embarking on a culinary journey while travelling offers a rich tapestry of flavours and traditions to explore, making each meal an adventure.
Watch Your Portion Size
While relishing the diverse culinary offerings during travel, it is imperative to remain mindful of portion sizes, particularly when indulging in calorie-laden rich dishes. While these decadent delights may tempt the palate with their enticing flavours and aromatic spices, consuming them in moderation is key to maintaining a balanced diet and preventing overindulgence.
Whether sampling creamy curries, buttery pastries, or savoury fried treats, travellers should exercise restraint and savour these indulgences as occasional treats rather than mainstays of their diet. Whilst being on holiday is the opportune time to overindulge, be mindful that you can still enjoy the essence of local cuisine while safeguarding your health.
Healthy Balance
While sampling traditional dishes travellers can opt for healthier alternatives or make mindful substitutions to strike a balance between indulgence and well-being. By seeking out fresh, colourful ingredients, travellers can enjoy a fulfilling gastronomic experience that nourishes both body and soul.
When navigating the culinary delights of travel, it is wise to seek out a harmonious balance of flavours and nutrients by opting for a mix of lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains. Whether indulging in the vibrant street food of bustling markets or dining in quaint local eateries, prioritising these wholesome components allows travellers to savour the essence of a destination's cuisine while making mindful choices that support their health.
5. Rest, Recline, Repeat
Holiday FOMO (or the "Fear of Missing Out") during holiday time, is a common phenomenon experienced by many travellers. We are always so busy trying to cram everything into our trip, that we forget to prioritise resting and relaxation.
A well-rested mind and body not only enhance the enjoyment of each moment but also play a crucial role in shaping the creation of lasting memories.
The Power of a Siesta
Amidst the excitement of exploring new destinations and having fun, it is essential to schedule rest times, particularly during the warmer parts of the day. Taking breaks to rest and recharge allows you to escape the heat, replenish your energy reserves, and ensure you are at your best for the remainder of your adventures.
Whether it is enjoying a siesta in the shade, lounging in a cosy café, or simply finding a quiet spot to relax and take in the surroundings, these moments of respite offer a welcome reprieve from the hustle and bustle of travel.
Make Time for You
Indulging in the hotel spa provides a luxurious escape from the hustle and bustle of holiday life. From invigorating massages and soothing facials to indulgent body treatments, the spa's expert therapists offer a sanctuary of tranquillity where you can pamper yourself and rejuvenate both body and mind.
So, while it is tempting to pack every moment of your travels with activities and sightseeing, remember the importance of rest in creating a fulfilling and rejuvenating travel experience.
6. The (Sensible) Sun-Kissed Rule Book
The allure of the sun's rays is obvious, but its dangers are often disregarded. Protect your skin from the unseen harm of ultraviolet rays with appropriate sun protection.
SPF Math
Selecting an appropriate sunscreen strength based on your skin type and the prevailing UV index is paramount for effective sun protection. For those with fair or sensitive skin, opting for a higher SPF and broad-spectrum protection is advisable to prevent sunburn and minimise the risk of skin damage.
Similarly, adjusting your sunscreen strength according to the UV index, which indicates the intensity of UV radiation, allows for tailored protection against sun exposure. Whether it is a day spent lounging at the beach or exploring under the sun's glare, choosing the right sunscreen strength offers a vital layer of defense, preserving your skin's health and vitality amidst outdoor activities.
READ MORE: Heatstroke & Heat Exhaustion Guide
Top Up!
Water and sweat are notorious culprits that can compromise the efficacy of sunscreen, leaving your skin susceptible to sunburn and potential damage. It is imperative to be proactive in maintaining adequate protection by topping up your sunscreen after swimming or every two hours, ensuring continuous coverage against harmful UV rays.
The discomfort of itchy and painful sunburn is a stark reminder of the importance of diligent sun protection. This proactive approach not only shields you from immediate discomfort but also fosters peace of mind, so you can fully immerse yourself in outdoor activities.
7. Prepare for the Unexpected
Even the most vigilant among us cannot predict the future. Knowing local emergency numbers and having comprehensive travel insurance can give you peace of mind and crucial support if the unexpected occurs.
The Assurance of Insurance
Travel insurance serves as a vital safety net, providing invaluable protection and peace of mind for travellers venturing far from home. From unforeseen medical emergencies and trip cancellations to lost luggage and unexpected delays, the uncertainties of travel can quickly escalate into stressful and costly situations.
Offering financial protection and assistance services, travel insurance can navigate these challenges, ensuring travellers are equipped to handle unexpected circumstances without bearing the full financial burden. Whether it is reimbursing medical expenses, arranging emergency medical repatriation, or providing compensation for lost baggage, travel insurance provides a crucial layer of support, allowing travellers to focus on enjoying their journey with confidence and security.
Ultimately, investing in travel insurance is a prudent decision that safeguards both your financial investment and well-being, offering invaluable reassurance and protection throughout your travels.
READ MORE: What Does a Good Travel Insurance Policy Look Like?
On World Health Day and during all your getaways, let health and holidays complement each other for a truly fulfilling holiday. Your well-being should be at the core of your travel experiences, not just a companion but the key to unlocking the best of your trips. Remember to prioritise your health by resting, staying hydrated, protecting your skin, and being prepared with travel insurance. Health is the foundation that enhances every step of your journey!