8 Ways to Keep Your Family Healthy When Traveling This Holiday Season

Last year, more than 119 million people traveled during the holiday season. If you and your family are planning to be part of the “get out of town” holiday travel group this year, make sure you keep your family healthy so that they can enjoy the trip and holiday.

Traveling with family to visit family is stressful enough without adding sniffles, coughs, flu, or stomach bugs. At Sima Stein, MD, in San Jose, California, board-certified pediatrician Dr. Stein shares her best advice to help keep your family sickness-free this season. 

1. Plan ahead for road travel

If you’re renting a car, be sure to order the correct car seat and to check that it’s installed properly. For kids who no longer require car seats, instruct them always to buckle up, as should mom and dad.

2. Bring a first aid kit 

Don’t forget the first aid kit! Make sure it’s stocked with the usual medications (pain relievers, antacids, anti-diarrhea, cold, etc.), Band-Aids, masks, and antibacterial ointment — plus, any go-to family health aids.

3. Practice good hygiene

Make sure your kids wash their hands regularly. For public transportation situations, always carry hand sanitizer.

4. Stay up to date on vaccines

If you’re traveling in the United States, it’s vital that you and your family receive the flu vaccine and other age-appropriate vaccines before you take off, especially by airplane. If you’re traveling to another country, check the required vaccines and plan since most vaccines take 4-6 weeks to become effective.

5. Don’t spend time around sick people

If you’re on an airplane or train, it’s hard to avoid sick people. Bring a mask in case you’re seated next to a coughing, sneezing, sniffling person. It’s important to protect yourself. While visiting family and friends, limit your exposure to those who are under the weather.

6. Protect yourself from the sun

It’s essential to wear proper sun protection whether you’re traveling to a warm climate or a ski or mountain destination. The sun’s rays can still be intense even in cloudy weather. 

7. Eat and drink healthily

Don’t use the excuse that you’re on vacation to overeat. Eat healthy, balanced meals and stay hydrated. Pack healthy snacks to avoid easy-to-grab, high-sugar, unhealthy foods.

8. Sleep

The excitement of staying in a hotel, a new place, or visiting family can keep you up too late, leaving you tired and low on energy the next day. On top of feeling depleted, a sleepless night can also weaken your immune system, leaving you vulnerable to colds. Practice good sleep hygiene and get a good night’s sleep so you can enjoy the day and the trip. 

For more information on routine vaccines, travel vaccinations, and healthy travel tips, call Sima Stein, MD, or request an appointment online.