Before your next flight
Traveling can be a thrilling experience, but it's essential to take a few steps before boarding your flight to ensure you stay healthy and safe during your journey. Here’s a laid-back guide to the must-dos before you take off.
1. Check Your Vaccinations
Before you head to the airport, double-check if you need any vaccinations for your destination. If you’re staying in the US, this is a great opportunity to make sure you’re up-to-date and protected against things like the seasonal flu, COVID-19, and more. If you’re heading outside of the US, some countries require proof of vaccination for diseases like yellow fever or measles. It’s worth visiting a travel health clinic to ensure you’re up-to-date.
2. Pack a Travel Health Kit
A well-stocked travel health kit can be a lifesaver, especially if you find yourself in a remote area. Include essentials like:
Pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen)
Antihistamines for allergies
Band-aids and antiseptic wipes
Motion sickness medication
Prescriptions (if you take any)
3. Stay Hydrated
Airplane cabins can be incredibly dry, which makes staying hydrated crucial. Before your flight, drink plenty of water, minimize pre-flight bevvies, and consider carrying a reusable water bottle (just remember to fill it up after you pass through security). It’s also important to remember to use a moisturizer can help maintain skin hydration, preventing moisture loss and protecting your skin barrier.
4. Protect Yourself From The Sun
Before boarding your flight, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Protecting your skin from UV exposure is crucial, as the intensity of ultraviolet rays increases with altitude. At higher elevations, such as during a flight, the atmosphere is thinner, allowing more UV radiation to reach your skin. This heightened exposure can lead to sunburn, even at cruising altitude, where you might not realize how much damage can occur.
In addition to using sunscreen, managing your plane window shade effectively can further protect your skin. If possible, keep the window shade closed during the flight, especially when the sun is shining directly into the cabin. If you prefer natural light, consider lowering the shade to reduce direct exposure while still allowing some ambient light in. Choosing a seat away from the window can also decrease UV exposure. Ensure to reapply sunscreen, especially if you will be sitting near the window or opening the shade periodically. Make these practices a part of your pre-travel routine to ensure your skin remains protected throughout your journey.
5. Practice Good Hygiene
Protect yourself from germs by frequently washing your hands or using hand sanitizer, especially after touching surfaces in the airport. Bring disinfecting wipes to clean your seat area, tray table, and any other surfaces you’ll be using on the flight.
6. Move Around
Sitting for long periods can lead to discomfort and swelling. It can also increase your risk of experiencing life threatening events like blood clots. To help with circulation, consider wearing compression socks and walking around the airport before heading to your gate. During your flight, try to get up and stretch your legs whenever possible. Simple exercises like ankle rotations and calf raises can also help.
7. Consider Travel Insurance
Unexpected events can happen, and having travel insurance can provide peace of mind. Look for a policy that covers health emergencies and cancellations.
8. Relax and Manage Stress
Travel can be stressful, but finding ways to relax before your flight can set a positive tone for your trip. Consider practices like deep breathing, meditation, or listening to calming music as you prepare for your journey.
9. Plan out your transportation
Planning your exit from the airport is essential for a smooth arrival at your hotel or Airbnb. Arranging transportation, whether it be a car service, shuttle, or rental car, often requires advance scheduling, especially in areas where you might not have cell service to make last-minute arrangements. If you opt to rent a vehicle, familiarize yourself with local driving laws, as road regulations can vary significantly from your home country; accidents are a leading cause of injury and death among travelers.
10. Stay connected
Share your itinerary and contact information with friends or family back home to ensure that someone knows your whereabouts, providing that extra layer of safety and peace of mind. You should also familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and research local healthcare facilities near where you’ll be staying. This may seem unnecessary, but no one plans to get injured or sick and knowing this information ahead of time will be invaluable during an unexpected emergency.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience. Bon voyage!