10 Healthy Ways to Prepare for International Travel
Those who have traveled outside of the country before understand that preparing to travel can be quite an ordeal. There are so many things that people have to remember from their boarding passes to their passports, converting currency, and making sure that their itinerary times match whatever time zones they are traveling between. With all of these items on the to-do list, it can be a challenge to remember to prepare the body for such a long adventure as well. With this goal in mind, there are a few tips and tricks that people might be able to put to use for international travel.
1. Get an Early Start
It is never too early to start preparing for an international trip. Often, people wait until close to the date of travel to get their affairs in order. All this will do is contribute to the stress of an international journey. This will create anxiety which is unhealthy for the body. To prevent this from happening, try to start preparing early. When the day of the trip rolls around, everyone will be thankful for the early start.
2. Leave Extra Space in Suitcases
Another common area of stress as people travel overseas is luggage that is overflowing with stuff. A common mistake that people make is trying to pack into small bags. While it is always a good idea to travel light, it is necessary to leave a little bit of extra space in the bags for anything that might be brought back from the trip. If these items don't fit, this can create a lot of extra stress that nobody wants to deal with.
3. Start Converting the Sleep Schedule Early
While some people need to work right up until the time of the flight, those that do not may benefit from trying to transition the sleep schedule ahead of time. While this might take a few days and may not be completed entirely, even just shifting it a couple of hours can make the jet lag significantly better upon arrival in the new destination. Try to start switching the sleep schedule early if possible.
4. Shift Meal Times
In addition to switching the sleep schedule, it is also a good idea to try and move around the meal times as well. In fact, this could make it easier to move the sleep schedule with the meal times. The body operates on circadian rhythm and has a certain routine around which it monitors sleep and eating habits. By shifting both at the same time, it can make it easier on the body to make such a brutal transition.
5. Sleep on the Plane
Another key tip is to sleep on the plane. Nobody is really doing much of anything on the plane except for watching movies and eating poor quality food. Therefore, this can be a great time to try and shift the sleep schedule. Try and sleep on the plane in accordance with the time zone of the destination. This can make it easier to remain awake once on the ground, if necessary.
6. Get up and Move Around Regularly
On a long plane flight, it can be tempting to just sit in one place and binge-watch movies. While this could be a great way to pass the time, this also allows the blood to remain stagnant in the legs. When this happens, the blood can start to clot, creating a serious health hazard. If this clot moves to the heart or lungs, this can lead to a fatal complication. Try and move around and stretch the legs every so often.
7. Pack Food for the Trip
One of the biggest temptations on a long plane flight is to cram snacks and substitute it for poor airline food. While bringing food from home for the long flight is not a bad idea, try and make sure this is healthy. Even some foods that are perishable will last at least the duration of the flight. Try to bring healthy food such as hummus or produce to snack on during the flight.
8. Ask Questions Overseas
As people are trying to figure out what to eat at the new destination, they could be intimidated and not ask questions that are otherwise necessary to learn about the food options. Talk to the locals and figure out what kinds of foods they eat. This can be a good starting point as people try to figure out what they like and what they don't. Eventually, people will find the healthy, tasty options in their new destination.
9. Exercise Overseas
At home, most people have an exercise routine. They are in a nice rhythm and have a set time of day that they work out. When they go overseas, this routine is thrown off and they may not know what to do. Start by packing gym clothes. This will provide the impetus for working out overseas. Once on the ground, people may find a nice street to run on or a local gym that they can use. Make sure to keep up with the exercise routine overseas.
10. Sleep is Vital
Finally, it can be tempting to stay up all night in an effort to explore a new place. Yes, it is important to experience a culture that has never been experienced before; however, the body is not used to being in a new place and the first few nights will be challenging to sleep through. Make sure that the body is getting enough sleep to recharge. This is the most important health tip of all for international travel.
People need to remember that these are only a few of the many different ways that the body can get prepared for international travel. if people remember to focus on sleep, diet, and exercise they can rest assured knowing that their body will be well taken care of. While the schedule is important, it is important not to neglect the overall health of the body as well.
*Disclaimer: This article provides general information about medicine, health, and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this article, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately-licensed physician or other health care worker.
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