Get outta town! Health-minded travel tips

Holiday trips can mean stress, hassle, and illness. Brush up on seasonal travel tips to arrive safe and sane.

Before you go…

• Charge every device. Then stash charging cords in your luggage.
• Snap photos of your medications so you’re prepared if you find you need refills on the road. If you have life-threatening allergies stock up on EpiPens and consider wearing a medical alert bracelet during travel.
• Take a pillowcase from home to cover airline pillows and headrests or as a shield against the seat itself. Consider bringing disinfecting wipes to wipe down surfaces.
• Copy your itinerary and all IDs or passports. Leave one set at home with a friend, tuck another in your carry-on.
• Don’t forget an extra pair of contacts or your glasses.

On the road…

• Remember that everything you touch (on a plane, train, or in a rest stop) has been touched by someone else. Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use a sleeve or tissue to open doors.
• Carry hand sanitizer and anti-bacterial wipes and use them to wash hands or wipe down surfaces such as fold-down tray tables.
• Driving? Schedule stops every 2-4 hours. Even a two-minute stretch is an instant jolt of energy and focus.

Enjoy the journey…

• Get to the airport extra early. The time before flights lets you deal with luggage hassles and security so you can relax at your gate. Print boarding passes at home or check in on your phone.
• If you are running late prepay your driver, prep for security, and let an airline official know as soon as you arrive – they may be able to call your gate or whisk you through long lines.
• If you’re going to be driving long distances, prepare for the worst by stocking your trunk with a blanket, flashlight, bottled water, snacks, and a first-aid kit.

When you arrive at your destination do a quick safety sweep. Look for hazards, identify exits, and note the location of the nearest emergency room. Good preparation helps keep your loved ones safe and gives you good travel karma.