One in five Filipinos has already booked international trips this 2023. Not only that, but 44% of Filipinos are planning to travel two to four times this year. At the same time, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is targeting to have 4.8 million tourist arrivals in the country this year, twice the number of visitors in 2022.
This means a lot of people will be going in and out of the country. We can expect more crowds and busier streets, especially during summer, which is one of the best times to travel because of the holidays and school vacations. If you are one of those looking to have an unstoppable year full of adventures, consider these four easy health tips:
1. Drink vitamins
Taking vitamins regularly can supplement a healthy diet and lifestyle. This is especially true for people going on vacation, who need to boost their immunity before and during their trip. Immune-boosting supplements like vitamins C and D, zinc, and probiotics can be taken three to five days before a trip and during to help travelers stay in tip-top shape.
2. Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is important all year round. Getting enough water prevents infections, brings nutrients to cells, and ensures that organs are working optimally. Aside from these benefits, drinking the recommended amount of water each day is good for cognition, sleep quality, and mood. The amount of water needed per day varies per individual, but for the healthy ones, the recommended amount of water that men should drink daily is 15.5 cups, and 11.5 cups for women.
Drinking enough water before travel is recommended because flying can be dehydrating. Airplanes are kept at 10 to 20% humidity, a lower rate compared to normal environments that range from 35 to 65%. Lower humidity leads to dehydration.
3. Sleep well
Good sleep leads to improved health, mood, immune system, and brain performance. Seven to nine hours of continuous sleep is needed to feel refreshed. Maintain good sleep habits days before a flight to have enough energy for the trip.
Flying to countries with the same time zone or with just an hour or two difference is easy. When traveling across the world, it’s important to adjust to the day-night cycle at the destination. Stay up with the locals when the arrival time is during the day and sleep at night.
4. Get vaccinated
Vacations expose travelers to diseases, so timely immunizations through vaccinations are crucial. The flu is one of the most common infectious diseases and it is contagious. Each infected person can spread the disease to one or two more people.
Preventive healthcare is still the best protection since people can catch the flu at any time of the year. It’s also important to get a shot annually since flu vaccines change each year to match the current viruses.
Most of all, you wouldn’t want to miss all the fun you have planned for your trip if you get sick. Take it from GlaxoSmithKline Philippines’ (GSK) latest flu disease awareness jingle, “But I Got the Flu.” It’s a call to everyone to get your flu shots as soon as possible so you can be unstoppable – whether in having your best summer vacation yet, spending quality time with loved ones, or pursuing other passions in life – don’t let the flu stop you. All you need to do is consult your doctor to ensure that you’re in the right condition to do so.
“People are excited to make up for all the things that they missed at the height of the pandemic. Now that travel restrictions are looser and we can enjoy the best holiday destinations, it’s important to not let our guard down. We recommend that travelers take preventive measures so they can be unstoppable and enjoy their trips worry-free,” says Dr. Kevin Bautista, GSK Medical Affairs Manager.
