How To Stay Healthy While Traveling: Solo Travel For Women Over 50

how to stay healthy while traveling

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.”

Sisterhood New Zealand 2025 8 | Solo Travel For Women | Sisterhood Travels Group Tours

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.

Sisterhood New Zealand 2025 7 | Solo Travel For Women | Sisterhood Travels Group Tours

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.

About The Sisterhood

The Sisterhood

Who are our Sisters? Well, we’re you! We value old friendships but love making new ones. We’re intellectually curious and love a unique adventure to parts unknown. We may be single, divorced, widowed, or simply have a partner who doesn’t want to travel. Most of all, We’re kind, compassionate women who look forward to cultural immersion, exclusive adventures, lots of laughs, and the magic of Sisterhood.