We all have barriers that get in the way of leading healthy lives. As we enter the holiday season, they seem to pile up more and more. My colleagues in the office will be the first to tell you, willpower is not one of my strengths when it comes to office treats.

Another barrier to personal wellness came about earlier this week when I was traveling to conduct open enrollment meetings for a client out of state. I am fortunate that my occupation does not require frequent overnight travel, but when it does, it can certainly inhibit my ability to stick to health goals. It got me thinking of a few “tips of the trade” to share to stick to your wellness goals while traveling.

Airport/Flight

1. Airports offer many unhealthy options and once you board your flight, food options become extremely sparse. Consider bringing a Ziploc bag of mixed nuts and/or trail mix to hold you over. Personally, I often bring a small portion of almonds and stick an apple in my bag for a flight.

2. Airplanes are notorious for causing dehydration. The recycled air on planes is much dryer than the air we are used too. Unfortunately, security restrictions do not allow bottles of water past the TSA checkpoint and the complimentary water provided by the stewardesses tends to amount to less than 6 ounces. Although costly, I always purchase a large bottle of water from a terminal newsstand to drink throughout the flight. The health benefits of staying hydrated are numerous and the last thing you want is to be susceptible to colds or infections as you sit with 100+ other people for a few hours because you are dehydrated.

3. Airports/Airplanes are a breeding ground for colds, infections and viruses (especially this time of year). Having hand sanitizer in your bag can prove important as you make your way through the airport and the airplane itself. Make sure to bring a travel size bottle so you can bring it through security.

Hotel

4. Choosing a hotel can prove to be a tough task when traveling for business. Picking a hotel that offers a gym onsite and a buffet breakfast can prove to be very helpful in maintaining your wellness goals while away. Having a gym in the hotel provides easy access to remain active while away from your home gym or club. Choosing a hotel that provides breakfast (with healthy options) helps avoid a McDonald’s or Burger King run early in the morning. Starting the day right is very important, especially while away.

Business Lunches/Dinners/Events

5. I prefer to experience the culture of the area I am visiting while away. Allow yourself a “cheat meal” to try the best local foods and traditions without having to feel guilty. After all, you’ve followed all of the other tips by now so you can afford to indulge…right?? Just make sure to control portion sizes and make healthy choices during the other meals.

6. Business travel may include entertaining clients and/or colleagues. If this involves some drinks, it may be a good idea to drink a glass of water for each alcoholic beverage. Not only will you thank me in the morning but you don’t want to head into the flight home dehydrated from start.

Those a just a few of the tips I have found to be extremely useful when I travel for business. As someone who travels frequently for business or has employees who do so, what have you found to be effective strategies to remain healthy? As healthcare costs continue to rise and population health continues to be an important initiative for employers, what are some other areas we can help employees beyond a normal workday at the office?

ryan

Ryan Kastner

Benefits Consultant & Certified Corporate Wellness Specialist® at Innovative Benefit Planning, LLC

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