Traveling is a fun and enjoyable way to use your time and it allows you to see the world and meet new people. However, it can be exhausting and stressful too. Over six years of full-time travel, we’ve found ways to nurture our mental and physical health on the road. We’ll share our tips to help you relax and have a good experience on your journeys.
If you’re going to be traveling for an extended period it’s even more essential to you focus on staying happy and well throughout your days. Follow this guide to make your health and wellness a priority even when you’re away from home.
Get Good Sleep
If you want to stay happy and well while traveling, then you must get a good night’s sleep. Your goal should be to wake up feeling well-rested and ready to seize the day.
One of the first things we did in our RV was address the mattress issue. Our RV mattress was so uncomfortable, we knew something had to be done about it right away. We tried the less expensive method first, and purchased a foam mattress topper and cut it to size (RV mattresses aren’t the same size as residential). While this wasn’t a perfect fix, it was an improvement. After about six months full-time, we purchased a new custom mattress and couldn’t be happier.
If you’re traveling away from the RV, make sure you spend as much time finding comfortable lodging options such as these cabins, where you feel safe and secure. In addition to the beautiful view, the nice and quiet environment will ensure you are rested to enjoy the day when you get up in the morning.
Finally, try to stick to a routine. It is hard if you’re battling the time change or just excited about the next day’s adventure, but try going to bed and getting up around the same time each day. Maintaining a sleep schedule helps your body adjusts during traveling.
Take Your Time
Sometimes there are a lot of logistics involved with traveling, but be sure to take time to enjoy the adventure. So many travelers forget to enjoy the little things along the way. Think about what causes you joy. Don’t make such a rigid itinerary that you can’t stop to smell the roses.
If you’re like us and working from the road, plan your stay to be long enough to accommodate your work schedule as well as the potential for bad weather days. If you only give yourself a week to visit a bucket list destination, then have a couple of days of rain, you may end up disappointed when it is time to move on.
Exercise
It’s easy to skip out on physical activity and your exercise routine when you’re traveling. However, you’ll likely end up feeling worse and more sluggish when you do. Therefore, make time to work out and break a sweat while you’re away. Stay happy and well by hitting the gym or going hiking or running. You’ll not only be burning calories and staying fit, but you’ll reduce any stress or anxiety you’re feeling and will sleep better at night. There are different ways to get exercise when you’re traveling so be creative and mix up what you choose to do.
Many hotels and RV resorts have fitness rooms, swimming pools, and nature trails. In fact, this is something on my list when I’m looking for a terrific campground. And if we’re going to be doing a lot of strenuous activity like hiking, I also look for a a campground or resort with a hot tub for some relaxation.
Eat Healthy Meals & Snacks
The foods you eat can also impact your mood and anxiety. Commit to eating healthy meals and snacks to stay happy and well while traveling. Pack and bring what you can with you and then try your best to eat well when you’re out at restaurants or on the road. While it’s not always easy, it is possible to choose nutritious options. You’ll feel a lot better and will have more natural energy when you stick to healthy foods and limit your sugar and caffeine intake. Fill your plate with fresh produce and greens and fruits and lean proteins to accomplish this goal. Try your best not to eat dessert every night if you want to feel good and energized the next day.
Travel days are the trickiest when it comes to eating healthy. After a long day of driving the last thing I often feel like doing is cooking. With a little pre-planning, you can overcome these struggles. You can save money and our health by following my five tips for eating healthy on travel days. It includes safety checklists and fun and educational games, such as:
- Printable road trip scavenger hunt game
- Road trip word search
- A license plate game
- Coloring page
Take Breaks & Rest
Although you’re traveling and have a packed itinerary, remember that if you want to stay happy and well that you should rest and take breaks frequently. Avoid planning out every minute of every day and leave yourself time to put your feet up and decompress. Bring along an interesting book or go sit by the pool when you have a few minutes to spare.
You’ll thank yourself for taking these breaks when you’re feeling well and not exhausted and tired all the time. You’ll have more fun when you’re well-rested and take care of your mind and body, especially if you have any ailments or illnesses. If you’re always on the go and jumping from one activity to the next, you may feel burned out and waste the next day sleeping.
Traveling too fast can also cause safety issues, particularly if you are too tired when you are driving. And if the kids are restless from too many days in the car, they may be a distraction as well. For some ideas on how to overcome these challenges, follow these tips to stay safe and entertained during your road trips.
Drink Water & Stay Hydrated
You may forget to drink water when you’re out of your normal routine and traveling. Stay hydrated by carrying around a water bottle with you that you can fill throughout the day. Limit your alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drink intake and stick to water for the best results. It’s especially critical if you’re outdoors in the hot sun a lot and participating in activities where you may sweat or exert yourself too much. Water will help your skin glow and allow you to have more energy while you’re traveling. It’ll also help wash out any toxins that enter your body on your trip.
Minimize Time on Technology
Limit work and screen time if you want to stay happy and well while traveling. If you are on extended travel, you may have to work, but otherwise don’t let it take over your life. Pick a timeslot to check your email and messages each day and then put your laptop away. Being connected to technology around the clock can be draining. Minimize the amount of time you spend online and on your phone if you want to be well and have a pleasant trip. Bring your phone out to take pictures and then put it away so you can stay in the moment and focus on what you’re doing or seeing. Engross yourself in other activities besides playing on technology, such as trying new foods, exploring the area, and talking to people who can educate you on the local culture.
Conclusion
No matter where you’re going or what you’re doing, you can apply these tips to help you stay happy and well on your trip. Take good care of yourself, and you’ll have a much more enjoyable time and will return home feeling your best instead of like you need another vacation. If you’re ever feeling out of sorts or anxious, give these ideas a try and see if they help alleviate some of your stress and tiredness. Remember to slow down and avoid rushing around so you can truly enjoy your travels and have a pleasurable experience while you’re away from home.
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