Health and Vacation Travel

Vacation, you can hardly wait.  But if you don't do it right, that vacation can be stressful and hazardous to your health.

The first step is the planning what exactly you are going to do where ever you go. And, part of that planning depends on who is going.  Are there going to be any small children?  What about teenagers? What about Grandma who is in a wheelchair?

Years ago we went to Las Vegas with 3 small children.  The baby sitter cost was more than the gambling.  We were 4 adults but trying to entertain little ones in a town geared to adults was a trial to say the least.

We drove -- in two vehicles.  We had a TV/VCR for the car so that helped our little one.  And we had the goodie bag.  Little games and books and toys that were wrapped like presents and could be opened at regular intervals.

We had a checklist but it was not extensive enough.  We did not get tickets to shows we wanted before arriving in Vegas and guess what -- no shows. Of course you should have your motel/hotel reservation confirmation handy. Give yourself plenty of time at each attraction along the way.  Believe me, 1 hour at the Grand Canyon is not enough.

If you are flying, you need to be at the airport 2 hours before departure time. Most airlines are now charging for each bag you check but still limiting your carry on. Remember the limitations for carry on such as liquids.

If you have prescriptions, they need to be filled so you don't have to worry about them during the trip. A condensed medical history should be in your wallet or purse -- just in case. You may also need a statement from your doctor about your prescriptions.

Take a picture of your credit cards - front and back and write down the numbers you need to report a lost card.  Also write down the numbers of the 3 major credit bureaus to notify them as well. Leave that list as well as your itinerary with who ever is watching your house and taking in your mail and newspaper. 

Carry a list of emergency phone numbers with you.  Don't forget to take the chargers for your cell phones.  At least one of the phones should have a car charger is you are driving.

If your plans require a passport, you need to start the process 8-10 weeks (more if possible) before you are leaving. If you have a passport - get it out and make sure it is still valid - they do expire.

Check with your health care giver about any immunizations you may need for travel outside your borders. Have all your vitamins and supplements in your checked baggage. 

If you are going to be gone for a couple of weeks, arrange for someone to water and mow your yard.  Tell your neighbors you will be gone, who will be watching (going in and out of) your house.

If you live in an apartment and don't have anyone to pick up the mail, have the post office hold it for you.

If you are boarding any pets, make sure the kennel has your phone numbers. If you have a friend coming by to feed them, make sure the animal has on a collar and the proper tags just in case they make a run out the door.

Before you hit the road, have the car checked by a competent mechanic. Carry flashlights, flares, water and blankets.  If you have a flat all of those will come in handy. Check that everything is in good condition in your first aid kit.

If you are driving, stop every couple of hours, especially with children.  You and they need to get up and walk around.  If you sit for hours at a time, as in long drives and airplane flights, you run the risk of blood clots. 

I think one of the biggest problems that can occur in the summer vacation months is being exposed to sun and humidity - especially if you are not used to them.  Disneyland is wonderful but hot and there is limited shade when standing in lines. 

Make sure you have sunscreen and plenty of water.  If you overdo and start to get dizzy -- sit down even if it is in the middle of the sidewalk.  That is much better than falling down.  Pour some water over your head and the back of your neck.  Get some ice for the back of your neck as well if possible. Get yourself into the shade.

If you are going to be around water, the sunscreen may not do the trick and you may end up with a nasty burn.  Take a shirt and long pants along with you.  If you feel yourself or see the children are starting to get really red - more sunscreen and the shirt and pants.  You really don't want to spend any part of your vacation in pain or in the doctor's office.

If you are doing a snow vacation, you still need lots of sunscreen and a good pair of sunglasses.  I had a friend who skied without sunglasses and went snow blind.  Luckily she recovered but that was a miserable 2 weeks. Even if it is sunny, you need gloves and a hat.  A ski mask is even better protection from frostbite.  You may not feel the cold in all the fun and excitement, but if it is snow -- it is cold.

These are just a few simple steps to avoid unnecessary stress during your vacation.  Oh, don't forget the camera.