Between sleeping schedules, eating properly and keeping active, we can very easily slip out of our regular routines while on holiday. As much as we are all deserving of a break, it is important to stay mindful of what our body needs while abroad. Below are five tips to stay healthy when travelling:

   1. Staying Hydrated

As nice as it seems to have an ice-cold beverage or an ice pop while the weather is warm, it can have a bad effect on your body in the longer run. Instead, it is recommended to drink a hot drink as it will bring your temperature down over time. It can be hard to force yourself to drink hot drinks when you are already warm, so opt for room temperature waters, juices, or soft drinks if you need to. 

  2.  Grazed Eating

A lot of the time when the temperature increases, many of us may feel like we have lost our appetites. This is a normal reaction to being warm. For this reason, it might be a better idea to graze on smaller meals and snacks throughout the day than a couple of larger meals which would cause your body to produce more heat. Whether you are sunbathing by the pool or strolling around the city, try to grab some healthy snacks which you know you will be likely to eat.

3.  Eating Healthy, Fresh Foods

Although we all like to indulge while on our holidays, some healthy food options throughout the day will make it easier to enjoy your getaway and will make you less likely to fall ill from heat stress. While you may have plans for a nice meal later in the evening, it may be a good idea to make a quick trip to a local grocery store for some fresh foods for throughout the day. This could include diced fruits such as watermelon, strawberries, melons, or anything which is hydrating, and some protein snacks to keep energy levels high. If you are less likely to gravitate towards eating fresh foods on their own, try healthy snack combinations such as carrot sticks with a peanut butter dip, or bananas with a chocolate spread.

4. Trust your Gut!

If you are about to sit down for your evening meal but aren’t feeling too peckish, listen to your body on what it needs. Forcing yourself to eat a large meal will make you feel sluggish which is not ideal in a warmer climate. Instead opt for a lighter meal with less carbs (such as a salad) to make your food easier to digest. Also lean towards a meal which is higher in the key nutrients that you may have missed out on during your day (proteins, iron, calcium etc.).

5. Try Local Foods 

Travelling is the best way to experience new foods and to get a real understanding of the local culture. When out adventuring, try spotting the places the locals are going to instead of the more popular tourist hotspots. Talking to your tour guide or people in coffee shops may give you a good idea as to where to stop off for your meals. Alternatively, you could do some research on the internet before you travel. With the different seasons comes different fresh ingredients and it is a good idea to take advantage of ordering the healthier seasonal produce when out for a bite to eat.

Maintaining your health while travelling abroad is not only achievable but also essential for an enjoyable and worry-free journey. By planning ahead, staying informed, prioritising self-care, and making mindful choices, you can protect your well-being and ensure that your adventures leave you with cherished memories rather than unexpected health issues. Remember, health is wealth, and by following the tips and strategies outlined in this guide, you can savour every moment of your international travels, embracing new cultures and experiences with vitality and vigour.