We know that travel is great fun; we get to see amazing things and have fantastic new experiences along the way. Despite that fact, moving from time zone to time zone can be mentally and physically exhausting, air conditioning can make you a little ill, and your body generally feeling out of whack can all basically add up to a very unhealthy situation.

If you’re worried about staying healthy whilst you’re off on your travels, check out these handy tips.

Be immunisation savvy

Head to your GP surgery no less than a month before you travel and ask whether you need any immunisations or anti-malaria medication for the destination you’re heading to. If you are advised to have them, then listen to the advice. On top of this, make sure your regular immunisations, such as tetanus and polio, are up to date.

Have a pre-travel MOT

Whilst you’re at the doctors’ surgery have a general check-up, to make sure you have no underlying issues which could cause you problems whilst you’re travelling. Explain where you’re going and what you’re planning to do whilst you’re away.

Stock up on your regular medications

If you have regular medications you take every day, make sure you have enough of your repeat prescriptions to last you for the duration of your travels. Store these in your hand luggage, in the marked boxes with your name on. Some less common medications or medical equipment may need a doctor’s letter, so check this out.

Remember flight health advice

You don’t only have to be flying long haul for health issues to be a problem. If you need to wear compression stockings, due to a DVT risk, wear them – fashion is not a concern at this point in time! Make sure you drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, and get up and walk around regularly. This advice also pertains to rail and road travel.

Avoid drinking tap water

Everyone knows this rule, but a few don’t stick to it! Avoid tap water like the plague, otherwise you may find yourself at the mercy of the famous stomach bug. Stick to bottled water and you should be fine. On top of this, be aware that salads/fruit may have been washed in tap water, and ice can also be made from tap water, however in regular resorts this isn’t generally a problem.

Be sun safe

If you’ve ever had a bad case of sunburn, or even worse if you’ve ever suffered from sun stroke, you will be aware of the importance of regularly slapping on that high factor sun-cream. Wear a hat, keep drinking water, and regularly apply cream.

Be alcohol aware

Alcohol measures overseas are often different to what you’re used to back home, usually much stronger. Simply be aware of how much you’re drinking, and stop when you feel you’ve had enough. If you can keep one person in your party sober, to keep an eye on everyone, even better.

Try and make healthy food choices

This can be hard when you’re on the move, but try and steer away from fast food as much as possible, and instead try and go for healthier options. Not only is this better for you in the long run, but it will also help you feel more alert and awake, so you’re able to take in what you’re seeing, without feeling sluggish.

Never forget travel insurance!

This should go without saying!