Packing the swimsuit, sunscreen, snorkel and… Kleenex™?
An ill-timed virus unexpectedly sneaking into a busy, fun-filled itinerary can be depressing. Silently incubating for days, we have to wonder, was the virus picked up at work, on the playground with the kids, the store, or our favorite restaurant? Our lives are busy and filled with plenty of opportunities to not only pick up a nasty little virus but even miss noticing those first sneezes in the midst of packing our bags. Many of us are rushing last minute to wrap up work, packing, and preparing before our travel that sleep, exercise, and nutrition get pushed to the bottom of our priorities. It’s only when the fever and body aches arrive an hour into our flight that we recognize a virus has tagged along on our vacation.
I have realized on more than one occasion that neglecting to bring the “Get Well Soon” comfort bag on a trip was going to haunt me. Most of the time that happened on short trips or summer travel when I didn’t anticipate illness as a possibility. Normally, I would reach in the bag, grab some comfort items for symptom relief and assure everyone all would soon be well. When flying or at a hotel without my “mom fixes all” bag, I must wait until I can find a store at our destination or in the airport to provide relief. Whether it be sore throat lozenges, Elderberry syrup, or headache relief it can be defeating to discover our preferred brand or remedy is not available. And remember- airports are not supermarkets!
A word of caution as you pack for your travels – recognize that an unexpected virus is not only possible anytime or anywhere, it will be tougher to find rest amongst the busy itinerary planned. Who wants to rest when sun and fun (and travel companions) await?
For those viruses that sneak into your itinerary, be prepared with your “Get Well Soon” bag. What have you found to be beneficial for your family illnesses?
7 Tips for Dealing with Unexpected Illness When Traveling
1. Plan flexibility into every itinerary. Life happens.
2. Always pack a small bag of favorite comfort items for symptom relief.
3. Confront the illness as soon as detected. Avoid trying to ignore symptoms by “toughing it out”. Often this will result in a weaker body and exacerbated symptoms.
4. Increase hydration and rest if feeling ill. Allocate your body’s energy to fight the virus instead of fighting crowds. Choose activities wisely.
5. Encourage extra hand washing for your traveling companions (and yourself!) to prevent spread of the illness.
6. Pack the right attitude to deal with “life” away from home. Adjust expectations to fit reality. Never make anyone feel bad for getting sick. Illness can happen to anyone at anytime. (refer back to tip #1)
7. If traveling internationally, ask a local pharmacist for a recommended remedy. I have found incredible products in France, Germany, Spain, etc. where naturally assisting the immune system is a priority.
Hand washing, drinking water, and good sleep will help prevent illness when traveling. If already sick, allowing our inner “military” to fight off the illness requires extra energy (resting), hydration, and nutrition – keep those soldiers strong! A weak body will take longer to defeat illness and may succumb easier to secondary infection.
May your travel be healthy, safe, and free from sniffles, but if not – may you have packed the right attitude and priceless comfort items!
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