Ready to Travel After Graduation? Don’t Miss These Travel Health Tips

Graduation marks an exciting milestone, and for many, it’s the perfect reason to explore new places and make unforgettable memories. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, taking care of your health while traveling should be part of your plans. Staying mindful of your well-being ensures you can fully enjoy every part of the journey.

Before you head out, take a little time to prepare. Following easy travel health tips like staying hydrated, packing any necessary medications, getting enough rest, and protecting yourself from common travel illnesses can make a big difference. A little planning now will help you focus on what matters – enjoying this special time and celebrating all you’ve achieved.

Motion Sickness: Tips to Keep It at Bay

Motion sickness can affect travelers on planes, boats, or winding roads. To minimize discomfort:

• Choose your seat wisely – Choose the front seat in cars, a window seat on planes, or the middle of a boat where motion is less intense.
• Focus on the horizon – Keeping your eyes on a steady point ahead helps your brain and body stay in sync.
• Stay hydrated and avoid heavy meals – Drink water and eat light to prevent nausea.
• Use distractions – Listening to music or engaging in conversation can divert your attention from motion.
• Consider ginger – Many travelers find ginger tea or candies help calm an unsettled stomach.

Listening to your body can make travel much more pleasant, even on bumpy rides.

Travel-Related Infections: Stay Informed and Protected

Traveling to new destinations can expose you to unfamiliar pathogens. To reduce your risk:

• Research your destination – Understand the health risks and necessary vaccinations.
• Practice good hygiene – Wash your hands regularly and use hand sanitizer when necessary.
• Be cautious with food and water – Eat well-cooked meals and drink bottled or purified water.
• Protect against insects – Use repellents and wear appropriate clothing to prevent bites.

Consult the CDC’s Travel Health Notices for updates on health advisories. With a little preparation and awareness, you can lower your risk and focus on enjoying your adventure without interruptions.

Sun Safety: Protect Your Skin

Spending time outdoors is a highlight of many trips, but it’s important to guard against sun damage:

• Use sunscreen regularly – Go for a broad-spectrum formula with SPF 30 or higher, and make sure to reapply at least every two hours when you’re outside.
• Stay in the shade – Limit direct sun exposure, especially when the sun is at its strongest, typically from late morning to mid-afternoon.
• Dress to protect – Cover up with items like wide-brimmed hats, UV-blocking sunglasses, and lightweight long-sleeve shirts to help shield your skin.

A little planning can keep your skin safe while you make the most of your time outdoors. For comprehensive sun safety guidelines, refer to the CDC’s Sun Exposure page.

Stay Hydrated: Keep Your Energy Up

Traveling, especially during the summer, can lead to dehydration, which may cause fatigue, headaches, and dizziness. To stay hydrated:

• Drink plenty of fluids – Choose water and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol – Both can contribute to dehydration.
• Eat water-rich foods – Fruits like watermelon and oranges can help maintain hydration.

Paying attention to your fluid intake will help you feel energized, avoid headaches, and stay comfortable throughout your trip.

Manage Jet Lag: Adjust to New Time Zones

Crossing time zones can disrupt your sleep patterns, leading to jet lag. To minimize its effects:

• Gradually adjust your schedule – Before traveling, shift your sleeping and eating times to match your destination.
• Expose yourself to natural light – Sunlight helps reset your internal clock.
• Stay active – Light exercise can boost your energy levels.
• Consider short naps – If you’re feeling drowsy, a 15-20 minute nap can help, but avoid long naps that may interfere with nighttime sleep.

By planning ahead and listening to your body, you can make jet lag a minor bump instead of a major roadblock in your travels.

When to Visit the ER Before or After Travel

Certain health concerns warrant a visit to the emergency room:

Before travel:

• Severe allergic reactions or asthma attacks.
• Unresolved infections or illnesses.

After travel:

• Persistent fever, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Signs of dehydration or confusion.
• Symptoms of serious infections acquired during travel.

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Stay Prepared and Enjoy Every Moment of Your Trip

Traveling after graduation is a great way to explore, relax, and celebrate everything you’ve achieved. To make sure your trip stays memorable for all the right reasons, a little preparation and attention to your health go a long way. Following helpful travel health tips before and during your journey can help you avoid common issues and enjoy every moment with confidence.

At Physicians Premier, we’re here to support you every step of the way with prompt and professional care. Whether you need a checkup before your trip, guidance on travel health tips, or care when you return, we’re ready to help. Visit our Services page to learn how we can help you stay healthy before, during, and after your travels.

Sources:

“Motion Sickness,” CDC Travelers’ Health, https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/motion-sickness
“Travel Health Notices,” CDC Travelers’ Health, https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices
“Sun Exposure,” CDC Travelers’ Health, https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/sun-exposure
“Healthy Travel Tips: Staying Hydrated While Traveling,” Abbott, https://www.nutritionnews.abbott/healthy-living/diet-wellness/Healthy-Travel-Tips-Staying-Hydrated-While-Traveling/
“Jet Lag Disorder,” CDC Yellow Book, https://www.cdc.gov/yellow-book/hcp/travel-air-sea/jet-lag-disorder.html