
I don’t know about you but no matter how hard I tried there was a time when I would get sick after every trip I went on. The last time I came home ill was when I went to Las Vegas about a year and a half ago. I ended up with the worst cold I had experienced in a very long time. I stayed in bed for a full week and it took me weeks to fully recover. I vowed I would avoid getting sick when I travel at all costs. I started learning about how to stay healthy while traveling. After all, staying healthy while exploring new destinations can make all the difference in the quality of your trip.
How To Stay Healthy While Traveling
Whether you’re traveling alone or with a group, I want to share some of my tips for staying healthy while traveling.
Planning for a Stress-Free Journey
Preparation is the foundation of any successful trip. By getting organized before departure, you can prevent common issues and focus on enjoying the experience.
Scheduling Health Check-Ups Before Traveling
One of the most important pre-travel steps is booking an appointment with your doctor if you have any concerns. A quick check-up can help you address any health concerns before hitting the road. Make sure to:
- Update your vaccinations based on your destination. Check if you need shots for diseases like hepatitis or yellow fever. These questions are best answered by your physician.
- Arrange for enough prescription medications to cover the trip, plus a little extra in case of delays.
- Discuss managing chronic conditions while away and get advice tailored to your needs.
Feeling confident in your health sets the tone for a worry-free trip.
Packing Essentials for Wellness
Securing Comprehensive Travel Insurance
Your packing list can directly impact how well you feel during your travels. Focus on bringing items that support both comfort and health, including:
- Supplements and vitamins: Pack those daily multivitamins or probiotics you rely on to boost energy and immune health. I always pack my probiotic and immunity supplements on every trip.
- Fitness gear: Lightweight resistance bands, a foldable yoga mat, or comfortable shoes for walking are excellent for staying active.
- First aid kit: A compact pouch with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, and antiseptic can be a lifesaver.
- Hydration tools: A refillable water bottle with a filter ensures you can easily stay hydrated.
- If you are worried about being in crowded areas, packing a face mask is a way to protect yourself.
Most importantly, pack light. Rolling your luggage (rather than carrying heavy bags) reduces strain on joints and muscles
Travel insurance isn’t just a box to check—it’s peace of mind. Look for plans that provide health coverage, including emergency evacuation and treatment. For international trips, confirm the plan covers unexpected medical expenses. A reliable insurer can help you focus on enjoying the trip rather than worrying about the “what-ifs.”

Maintaining Physical Health During Travel
Travel is invigorating, but it can also throw off your normal eating, sleeping, and exercise habits. Stay mindful of your physical health to ensure you have the energy to explore every day.
Finding Opportunities for Daily Movement
Staying active doesn’t have to mean hitting the gym every morning. From wandering through local markets to stretching in your hotel room, simple steps can keep your body moving:
- Join a walking tour to soak up the sights and fit in exercise.
- Opt for stairs instead of elevators whenever practical.
- Book accommodations with gym facilities if you can or bring a travel-friendly yoga mat to keep up with routines. Apps like YouTube offer free, short workout videos tailored for travel.
Remember, it’s about staying active, not exhausting yourself.
Staying Hydrated and Choosing Nutritious Foods
Hydration is non-negotiable when traveling. Always have a water bottle on hand, especially when flying or spending long hours exploring. It’s easy to miss the signs of dehydration when you’re busy. I include a few packets of Liquid I.V. which is a powder hydration booster in my carry-on bag.
When it comes to food, treat yourself while staying mindful. Sampling local cuisine is part of the joy of travel, but balance is key:
- Look for fresh fruits and vegetables at local markets to boost your nutrient intake.
- Stick to lean proteins and skip overly heavy meals, especially on active days and late dinners.
- Avoid sugary drinks and opt for herbal teas or plain water instead.
Being mindful of what you eat doesn’t mean skipping the adventure of trying something new. It’s about enjoying in moderation.
Prioritizing Rest and Stress Management
Travel can be as exhausting as it is exciting. Long flights, time zone changes, and packed schedules often lead to poor sleep. To avoid burnout:
- Choose quiet accommodations or use white noise apps and earplugs to block out disruptions. Earplugs and an eye mask have become essential travel items for me.
- Stick to a jet lag strategy: Try pacing your sleep schedule before your trip to adjust to a new time zone. Also, try and avoid the temptation to nap on the day you arrive at an international destination. The sooner you assimilate to the local time, the better you will feel.
- Schedule downtime into your itinerary. Even an hour of rest between sightseeing helps your body recover.
When the unexpected happens, like a delayed flight or a mishap with luggage, staying calm and flexible reduces the strain on your mental and physical well-being.

Traveling as a woman over 50—whether on solo journeys or in an inspiring women-only travel group—is a remarkable way to explore the world and enrich your life. The key to making the most of every destination lies in thoughtful preparation and a focus on well-being. When you prioritize your health, you can fully immerse yourself in the adventure, soaking up the sights, sounds, and experiences without worry.
So, pack smart, book that check-up, strap on your most comfortable shoes, and embark on those adventures with confidence. It’s never too late to see the world and feel amazing while doing it.
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Lori Helke is an author and travel writer from Wisconsin. She is the founder of the travel and lifestyle blog Lori Loves Adventure where she writes about her solo travel experiences, and is the author of the Beatrice the Little Camper children’s picture book series, as well as the travel guide ‘Wisconsin Harbor Towns: The Ultimate Wisconsin Road Trip Guide.’ Lori has a monthly travel segment on Local 5 Live, a Green Bay, Wisconsin TV morning show, has contributed to several online and print publications, and serves on the Visit Sheboygan Board Of Directors.
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