Holiday Travel Health Prep: Don’t Leave Your Health Behind

Holiday Travel Health Prep: Don’t Leave Your Health Behind

Traveling for the holidays can be exciting—but it can also be tough on your body and your routine. Long drives, late nights, airport lines, different foods, and disrupted sleep all add up.

Before you hit the road or the skies, it’s worth taking a few minutes to think about your health game plan.

1. Make Sure Your Medications Are Ready

Nothing derails a trip like realizing you’re almost out of an important medication. Before you travel:

• Check how many days of each prescription you have left

• Request refills early if needed

• Keep medications in your carry-on, not checked bags

• Pack a simple list of your medications and doses, just in case

If you use inhalers, insulin, blood pressure meds, or any “must-have” prescriptions, make them a top priority.

2. Plan for Sleep & Time Changes

Different beds, time zones, and late nights can throw off your sleep. To help your body cope:

• Try to keep a somewhat consistent bedtime and wake time

• Bring things that help you sleep (earplugs, eye mask, favorite pillow)

• Avoid heavy meals and a lot of alcohol right before bed

• Stay hydrated—dehydration makes jet lag and fatigue worse

Even if sleep isn’t perfect, a little planning goes a long way.

3. Protect Your Stomach & Digestion

Holiday food is fun—but sometimes your stomach disagrees. To support digestion while traveling:

• Don’t skip all fiber and veggies, even on the road

• Drink water regularly, especially on flights

• Pack a few simple, familiar snacks your body tolerates well

• Pay attention to any food triggers you already know

If you already struggle with reflux, IBS, or other GI issues, a quick check-in before your trip can help you have a plan ready.

4. Know What to Do If You Get Sick Away From Home

It helps to think ahead:

• Who will you message first if you start feeling unwell?

• Do you know how to reach your doctor or DPC practice from out of town?

• Do you have a basic home/travel kit (pain reliever, thermometer, a few bandages, etc.)?

As your DPC practice, we can often help with virtual visits if something comes up while you’re traveling, depending on what you need and where you are.

5. Schedule a Quick Travel Prep Visit (If Needed)

If you:

• Take several medications

• Have chronic conditions (like diabetes, heart disease, or lung issues)

• Have a history of getting sick on trips

…a brief visit before you travel can give you extra peace of mind.

We can:

• Review your medications and refills

• Talk about specific risks for your trip

• Give personalized tips to keep you as healthy as possible on the road

  
  

📅 Holiday Travel Health Step: If you’ve got a trip coming up, send us a message or schedule a quick check-in.Let’s make sure you’re not only packed—but prepared—so you can enjoy your holiday travel with fewer health worries.