People travel mostly to explore new places and to get away from their mundane routines. They want to be able to relax and de-stress. But in many cases, people come back from their vacations more tired. This is because they did not take care of their health while traveling.

Remember that just because you are having fun, you should already forget about your health. You may not drink alcohol, stay up late, or even try exotic foods as often as you would when you’re back home. But that does not automatically mean you should already neglect your health.

Here are five ways you can stay on top of your health while traveling:

1. Pick Your Accommodations Well

Many travelers go about choosing the cheapest accommodation they can find. They do this to save money and to be able to use that cash for other things instead. Unfortunately, this often backfires as cheaper accommodation is not always the cleanest or the safest.

When looking for a place to stay, it is essential to consider its location, reviews, and the type of traveler it usually caters to. For example, if you are traveling solo, you might want to stay in an affordable hostel rather than a hotel. This is because hostels are generally cheaper and offer a social environment ideal for solo travelers who want to meet new people.

But regardless of the type of accommodation you choose, always ensure that it is clean, organized, quiet, private, and adequately maintained. If possible, choose one with a kitchen where you can cook your own meals and an on-site gym. This way, you can save money on food, and you will not have to go out of your way to find a place to work out.

2. Be Mindful of Your Eating Habits

When traveling, it is easy to get caught up in the moment and indulge in unhealthy eating habits. This is especially true if you are in a new place and want to try all the local food. While nothing is wrong with this, you should still be mindful of what you are eating and how much of it you consume.

For one, you might not be used to the local food, and your stomach might not be able to take it. It is always better to ease into new food rather than eat a lot of it all at once. Start with small portions and see how your body reacts before consuming more.

Second, you could be allergic to certain ingredients used in the local cuisine. Before eating anything, be on the safe side and ask the servers about the ingredients used in the dish. It also helps to bring your medication just in case you eat something you are allergic to.

And finally, try to balance your meals by including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These will help you feel fuller for longer and give you the energy you need to explore your new surroundings.

3. Stay Hydrated

One of the easiest ways to ruin your vacation is to get dehydrated. This is because when you are not adequately hydrated, you will feel tired, cranky, and unfocused. You might also get headaches, constipation, and muscle cramps. To avoid all of these, drink plenty of water throughout the day.

If you are traveling to places where tap water is unsafe to drink, bring a reusable water bottle with you and fill it up with bottled water. You can also opt for fruit juices, sports drinks, and herbal teas. Just make sure to avoid caffeinated beverages, as they can further dehydrate you.

Don’t neglect your oral hygiene, too. When you are not adequately hydrated, your mouth will produce less saliva. This can lead to a dry mouth, the perfect environment for growing bacteria. To avoid this, drink plenty of water and chew sugar-free gum to keep your mouth from getting too dry.

4. Catch Up on Some Sleep

While staying up all night and making the most of your trip is tempting, this is not a good idea if you want to stay healthy. This is because your body needs rest to function properly. Your immune system will not be able to work at its best, and you will be more susceptible to getting sick if you always skimp on sleep.

To avoid this, make sure to get enough sleep every night. This means going to bed at a reasonable time and getting at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep. If you can, try to get sun exposure during the day, as this will help regulate your body’s natural sleep cycle.

You can also create a comfortable sleeping environment in your hotel room by ensuring the temperature is not too hot or too cold. Find ways to relax before going to bed and avoid using electronic devices in bed.

5. Wash Your Hands Often

Last but not least, wash your hands as often as possible. This is especially important if you are going to be in close contact with other people, such as on public transportation or in crowded places. This is among the best ways to prevent the spread of germs and illnesses.

Follow the 20-second rule: Lather your hands with soap and water, scrubbing for 20 seconds minimum. Rinse completely and dry using a clean towel or air dryer. You can also use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains 60% alcohol. Remember to rub your hands together until they are totally rid of moisture.

Don’t forget to wash your hands regularly. Do this before eating, after sneezing, coughing, or blowing your nose, and after using the bathroom. Doing so will help keep you healthy and prevent you from getting sick.

Traveling can be a great way to see new places and experience different cultures. However, it is vital to take care of your health while on vacation. By following these simple tips, you can stay healthy and enjoy your trip.