The last thing we’d want to happen for our first trip out of town in years is to fall sick. For most of us, it’s been about two years since we last went abroad. So in the midst of our excitement and last minute packing, self-care isn’t the top of our priority list – especially so when you’ve already set aside a few weeks of holidaying to pamper yourself. But between late nights rushing work to prepare for your leave, and triple-checking your trip itinerary, your body isn’t at its peak. So when it’s hit with the dehydration of the plane cabin and a haywire body clock due to jet lag – that’s a disaster waiting to happen. To avoid that fate, we’ve rounded up some post-COVID travel advice from Zulal Wellness Resort. The lowdown, below.

Get sufficient sleep

The most important thing you can do for yourself while travelling is to get sufficient sleep. This ensures that you’re refreshed and ready to explore your holiday destination and make the most of each day. If you tend to have trouble falling asleep in new environments, make sure you bring things like a sleep mask, ear plugs, and comfortable clothes to decrease disruptions as you fall asleep. Travelling abroad also means having to most likely adjust to a new time zone. Jet lag would become your biggest enemy, but make sure you’re disciplined to force yourself to sleep when it’s night, and wake up when it’s morning. Getting enough vitamin D also ensures that you get enough light to tune your body clock, so try to make the most of the light. Adjusting to the time zone aside, getting Vitamin D also boosts happy chemicals in your body like serotonin, helping you really savour each moment. You can also take in Vitamin D through your diet or supplements. Take in more foods like egg yolks, milk, and fatty fish as they are fantastic dietary sources. Vitamin D-fortified products like cereal or orange juice are great too.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kitsch (@mykitsch)

Hydrate hydrate hydrate

We all know the tendency to overindulge in food and drink while holidaying. So make sure you compensate by bringing a water bottle around, and stay hydrated. Having water on hand can also help stave off headaches and even lethargy. Especially if you’re travelling to places with higher altitudes, staying hydrated will ensure you feel great throughout the day. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Boxed Water Is Better (@boxedwater)

Boost your immune system

Healthy food will keep your immune system strong and protect you as you explore the world. So if you get a little peckish during the day, try not to indulge in so much street food or junk food, and instead pack things like trail mix, eggs or protein bars to munch on. Things like dried cherries are also natural sources of melatonin that can help you sleep better when jet lagged. We’ll also recommend taking some multi-vitamins to ensure you hit your nutritional needs. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Amazin’ Graze Singapore (@amazingrazesg)

Keep active

Avoid sitting for long periods while travelling. Obviously the plane ride may be a little difficult, but get up frequently and walk the aisles. If you’re hopping on a transit flight, don’t sit around the airport scrolling through your phone – get up and walk around instead. This helps stretch out your muscles and gets your heart rate going. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by LORNA JANE ACTIVEWEAR (@lornajaneactive)