Healthy Tips for Winter Travel

The starting gun has already gone off for many travelers this holiday season. Others are either poised at the starting line or making final preparations to venture out into the hustle and bustle of winter travel. The last thing you or your loved ones desire is to experience an illness during these exuberant family reunions. So what can anyone do to protect themselves, and others, from the doldrums of holiday illness or hazards?

The first place to start, if it isn't too late, is a trip to the family doctor for proper vaccinations such as the flu shot. Although, the symptoms of the recent H1N1 flu are not always easily recognized and the vaccination is not yet readily available, you may want to consider that as an additional option. Speak with your doctor, weigh the health information they give you and make a decision on whether or not it is right for you.

The next step is to prepare before heading out into crowded airports or upon the not-so-open road. Regardless of your mode of transportation, always prepare a small medical supply kit. Locate your prescription medicines as well as the necessary items such as pain relievers, motion sickness pills (as needed) and perhaps even immune-boosting products such as Airborne. Another good item to place in your kit would be antibacterial wipes or lotion.

Place all of these items in a sealable plastic bag, but always keep in mind the proper size containers, especially if your travels will take you through airport security points. This information is vital for all travelers to ensure safe and easier passage through busy terminals. You can find all of the Travel and Safety administration information on their website (http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/index.shtm).

If you are travelling by car, another great and essential item is an emergency kit. This time of year, the weather can vary greatly from region to region. Whatever the weather may be like at your jumping-off point, chances are it is quite different where you are ultimately headed. Plan your route ahead of time, check the weather along your planned route and store some important items in your vehicle. These items should include an extra blanket for every passenger, an extra set of warm clothes, a reasonable amount of fresh water and emergency food such as energy bars.

Should you find yourself in an emergency, communications is key. If possible, pack an extra battery for your cell phone and make certain that you have the charger at ready access. Another great source of information in the case of an emergency is a weather radio. These can vary in size and price, but they are always a handy tool when the need should arise.

Finally, before you leave, make sure you get plenty of rest. No amount of over-the-counter medicine can offset the dangers of a weakened immune system caused by lack of rest. Prepare your body for the inevitability of contact with numerous germs during your travels. Once you have left your home and locked the door behind you, make sure to wash your hands whenever possible and use antibacterial wipes to clean off arm rests and seats. Drink plenty of water and keep a supply of vitamin c tablets handy. Whenever you get an urge to have a snack, supplement your diet with a healthy does of immune-boosting vitamins.

As you find yourself in the highways and byways of holiday travel, keep your hands to yourself when practicable and always wash them before touching your face. Most of all, plan to have fun and enjoy your experience. Stress alone can be a large factor in contributing to illness. Know that you will be exposed to germs and viruses, but if you prepare properly and practice safe, clean habits, your chances of returning home as healthy as you were when you departed will be much greater.