Experienced travel advisor Gennady Podolsky understands that while planning focuses on logistics, health should be a top priority before, during, and after traveling. This allows vacationers to enjoy their destinations fully. Podolsky and dietitian Maddie Pasquariello share packing tips, in-transit advice, destination wellness recommendations, and emergency preparedness pointers.
Travelers should pack neck pillows, masks, wraps, and noise-reducing items to increase comfort while in transit. Healthy protein- and nutrient-dense snacks plus water bottles keep energy stable and prevent dehydration. Lightweight exercise outfits pull double duty for workouts and walks. Ask doctors about supplement or medication adjustments to minimize digestive and circadian rhythm disruptions from time zone changes. Compression stockings can also be helpful to reduce risks of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism from long periods of stillness.
Vaccinations should be obtained at least four weeks before travel when needed. Packing and final to-dos should be finished before departure to allow for good rest the night before. Stretches and movement every couple of hours while in transit keep blood flowing. Hydration comes from water instead of salty foods, caffeine, or alcohol, which can all cause puffiness or dehydration.
Good personal hygiene via hand sanitizer minimizes germ spread at destinations. Getting creative with exercise, like using stairs over elevators, guided bicycle tours, or simple step exercises, keeps the body active. While local cuisine introduces cultural experiences, care should be taken with tap water, raw fruits and vegetables, unpasteurized dairy, and undercooked meats, which can cause food poisoning. Restful sleep comes from eyeshades, earplugs, or white noise apps to counter ambient noise. Scheduling downtime avoids burnout from a crammed itinerary.
Medical emergencies can still happen even with preparation. Travelers within the U.S. should clarify health coverage for out-of-network care before departing. Overseas travelers need special international health insurance to supplement regular policies. Gennady Podolsky Identifying local healthcare facilities also helps for all destinations.
According to Gennady Podolsky’s tips, with some planning that keeps wellness top of mind from start to finish, travelers can stay healthy and make the most of their vacations.