Alright, friends. Blake and I are embarking on our first cruise this week. And I have to admit, I have mixed emotions about it. There is something about “living” on a boat for a week in the middle of the ocean that makes me uneasy. Probably thanks to my insane fear of whales. Yes, whales. Judge me all you want LOL. That being said, I’ve truly only ever heard raving reviews about cruises, so I’m choosing to be optimistic. More so, I’m super excited to go with my family and spend the week with them. But, before we set sail, I’m sharing all my healthy travel tips with you!
Truth be told, any kind of travel can make be taxying on your health. I’m talking about germ-filled flights, stressful travel situations, lack of hydration, poor food options, etc. These things used to stress. me. out. It made me apprehensive and nervous about traveling. But, in effort to kick fear out the door and enjoy all vacation has to offer, I’ve adopted a few habits to help me stay healthy during travel and ditch the stress. I’m sharing all the ways I’ve prepared for a healthy cruise, including specific items to pack and tips to try.
Stay hydrated with electrolytes.
I’m bringing my travel-sized bottle of Trace Minerals electrolytes with me on the cruise. Despite long days in the sun, sugary margaritas, and endless activities, I determined to stay as hydrated as possible. Electrolytes keep you hydrated by filling your body with the necessary vitamins and minerals, like magnesium, potassium, sodium, chloride, etc. During times I’m likely to get dehydrated, ie. bouts of travel, flights, and unusual food and drink consumption, electrolytes save the day!
Bring a pack of disinfectant wipes.
Self-explanatory. But, yes, I’m the girl on the plane who wipes down the seat, tray table, and arm rests. And when I stay in a hotel, I often wipe down the TV remote, sink handles, door knobs, and any other frequently touched places. I cannot even fathom the amount of germs on these surfaces #germaphobe. I’m not usually one to use disinfectant wipes around the house, but I believe there is a time and place for everything. Airplanes and hotel rooms just so happen to be the places I find appropriate for a little disinfection.
Prepare with sea-sick bands.
I’ve never been on a cruise, so I’m hoping sea sickness won’t be an issue. But, I’d rather be safe than sorry. As back-up, I’m bringing several sets sea-sick bands. I bought a cheap pack of 5 sets just in case we lose a pair or to share the relief if someone else needs it!
Opt for mineral sunscreen.
I ditched conventional sunscreen last year, after reading one too many studies about the negative health effects of it’s toxic ingredients. Instead, I opt for mineral sunscreen, which uses zinc oxide as the active ingredient to protect your skin from the sun’s rays. I’m not scared of a little sun, but I’m packing plenty of mineral sunscreen for those long days in the hot sun!
Eat breakfast, daily.
Despite eating and drinking more than normal during vacation days, you can bet I’ll eat breakfast every morning. From what I’ve heard, cruises are known for endless options of delicious food, so I will be filling my breakfast plate with eggs, breakfast sausage or bacon, plenty of greens, and possibly some fresh fruit. By filling up on a nutrient dense, protein-packed breakfast, I’ll be successfully fueling my body for the day’s activities and preventing cravings/binge-eating later in the day.
Relax & have fun!
Stress, in any form, will always do more harm than good. Not to mention, vacation is the time to relax, unwind, and be stress-free. So, that’s exactly what I plan to do! Remember: stressing about unusual foods or germ-filled planes is anything but productive, and it’s certainly no way to ensure a healthy trip. And trust me, I’m still learning to live this one out.
With a little pre-vacation prep, these healthy travel tips can make for an enjoyable, stress-free, and healthy vacation. What are your go-to healthy travel tips?
