Holiday Health Hacks: How to Stay Well — Even When Traveling

The holidays bring joy, family gatherings, festive meals — and, all too often, extra stress and health challenges. Whether you’re hosting loved ones or traveling far to be with them, staying healthy during the holidays can feel like a full-time job. At Sisselman Medical Group, we want your season to be full of warmth, laughter, and good health. Below are practical, easy-to-follow tips to help you stay well over the holidays and travel safely.

Prioritize Preventive Care — Before You Go

One of the best ways to avoid holiday health troubles is to prepare for them. Sisselman Medical Group offers comprehensive preventive care services, including flu shots, routine check-ups, vaccinations, cardiovascular screenings, management of chronic conditions, and more.

Here’s how to prepare before the holidays arrive:

• Stay up-to-date on vaccines. Seasonal illnesses like the flu tend to rise during colder months and in crowded gatherings. Being vaccinated is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself and those around you.
• Schedule a pre-travel check-up. If you have a chronic condition — such as diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, or heart disease — a quick visit before traveling ensures everything is under control. Even if you’re generally healthy, a routine physical can help catch problems early.
• Plan your medications. Refill prescriptions before traveling and consider carrying an extra week’s supply in case of delays. If you monitor blood pressure, blood sugar, or other conditions, make sure to discuss any adjustments you might need during travel or schedule changes.
  
  

Getting preventive care before the holidays gives you peace of mind so you can focus on enjoying your celebrations.

Smart Tips for Traveling — Stay Healthy On the Go

Travel is one of the best parts of the holidays — but it also exposes you to stress, germs, and unpredictable environments. Whether you’re driving across states or flying to see family, these simple strategies can help keep you healthy.

• Hydrate and eat well. Long travel days can leave you dehydrated, especially on flights. Bring a reusable water bottle and sip throughout your trip. If you’re grabbing food on the go, aim for options like fruits, vegetables, or whole grains rather than heavy or sugary foods that can make you feel sluggish.
• Wash your hands often. Good hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent illness. Wash with soap and water when available, and keep hand sanitizer nearby for when it’s not. Disinfect commonly touched surfaces, such as tray tables or armrests, if you’re flying.
• Pack a travel health kit. Include important prescription medications, over-the-counter pain relievers, bandages, cold remedies, and hand sanitizer. Having essentials with you helps avoid unnecessary stress if you feel unwell while away from home.
• Rest as much as possible. Sleep often gets disrupted during holiday travel. Try to rest well before your departure and maintain a reasonable sleep schedule while traveling. A rested body is better able to fight off illness.
• Be mindful of travel safety.
• If you’re driving: take breaks to stretch your legs, avoid drowsy driving, and skip heavy meals or alcohol before hitting the road.
• If you’re flying or taking public transit: avoid touching your face, wash your hands frequently, and consider wearing a mask if you’ll be in close quarters or crowded spaces.
  
  

A little preparation goes a long way in keeping you healthy and energized during your travels.

Keep Up Healthy Habits During the Holidays

Once you arrive at your destination, it’s easy to slip out of your normal routines. But making mindful choices can help you enjoy the season without sacrificing your well-being.

• Moderate holiday indulgences. Enjoy your favorite holiday meals — just remember balance. Fill half your plate with vegetables or lean proteins when possible and choose water over sugary drinks. If dessert is calling your name, savor it without overdoing it.
• Stay active. You don’t need a full workout to stay healthy. A 10–15 minute walk after meals, stretching in the morning, dancing during holiday music, or light physical activities with family can help your body digest foods, reduce stress, and support immunity.
• Support your mental well-being. The holidays can bring emotional challenges such as stress, loneliness, or overwhelm. Carve out time for yourself, whether that means meditating, journaling, taking a warm bath, or simply breathing deeply for a few minutes. A calm mind supports a healthy body.
• Listen to your body. If you’re feeling run-down, sick, or unusually fatigued, don’t push yourself. Seek medical guidance when needed. Sisselman Medical Group offers same-day and urgent care appointments to ensure you get help when you need it.

How Sisselman Medical Group Supports Your Health

Sisselman Medical Group is dedicated to treating every patient like family. Their team of board-certified physicians provides high-quality internal medicine and family medicine services for patients ages 12 and older. Services include preventive exams, vaccinations, chronic disease management, diagnostic testing, bloodwork, remote monitoring, and same-day appointments.

Whether you need a quick flu shot before heading out of town, a physical exam to prepare for travel, or help managing an ongoing health condition, Sisselman Medical Group is here to make your care convenient, compassionate, and comprehensive.

A Healthy, Happy Holiday Is Possible

The holidays should be a time of joy — not illness or stress. By taking simple steps such as getting preventive care, practicing smart travel habits, and staying balanced during celebrations, you can enjoy the season with more energy and fewer worries.

Ready to make your holiday health a priority? Contact Sisselman Medical Group today to schedule your preventive visit, vaccination, or consultation. Their team is here to help you stay healthy all season long.