Destination: Fun

Healthy Travel

Couple smiling, sitting in front of eiffel tower.

Taking a break from it all is good for your health and happiness. Planning ahead, packing smart, and knowing your destination will help you relax and enjoy. Use these tips for a safe and healthy vacation.

*  Find out what to expect at your destination – weather, construction areas, and health concerns.

*  If you are going outside the U.S., find out if you need any vaccines. Ask your doctor or visitcdc.gov/travel.

*  Don’t carry large amounts of cash.

*  Make sure you have enough of your medicines. Pack them in your carry-on bag.

*  Pack a first-aid kit with over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, sunscreen, and bandages.

*  During airplane travel, stretch your arms and legs at least every hour.

*  Leave valuables at home. Don’t become a target for theft.

*  Stay hydrated. If the drinking water is unsafe, choose bottled water. Limit alcohol and caffeine.

*  Wash your hands often. Take alcohol-based hand sanitizers that contain least 60% alcohol.

*  Talk to your family about safety concerns. Don’t let kids wander.

*  Supervise your children at all times.

Action Step:Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher to protect your skin from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

Page from HealthyLife Weigh book by the American Institute for Preventive Medicine. www.HealthyLife.com. All rights reserved.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine