Thinking of Valentine’s Day ideas to impress your partner? How about going on a quick and short trip? You can do cool things along the way and enjoy the days leading up to Valentine’s Day, which falls on February 14. Traveling with your partner is a great way to spend quality time and get to know each other better. But when packing your bags and booking tickets, don’t ignore your health. Falling ill while traveling with your loved one will ruin everything. So, keep a few things in mind before traveling with your partner this Valentine’s Day.
HealthShots reached out to Dr. Vaishali Lokhande, Consultant, Internal Medicine, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai, and Dr. Rituparna Ghosh, Consultant, Psychology, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai, to find out how to stay healthy while traveling with your partner.
Points to keep in mind to avoid health problems while traveling
1. Choose your clothes according to the climate
Be sure to dress appropriately for your vacation location. If it is cold, bring warm clothes that will cover your whole body. That means your mitts and boots to cover your hands and feet need to be packed! Remember that intimacy with your partner alone will not keep you comfortable enough.
2. Regular medications
You should take your usual medication prescribed by your doctor. So if you or your partner have blood pressure or diabetes issues, it’s best to pack the meds in your bag (tips for traveling with diabetes).
Dr. Lokhande says that when traveling, it is common to get heartburn from outside food. A headache is also possible due to a changed routine. So pack antacids, aspirin and paracetamol. A small first aid kit including bandages, antiseptic liquid and anti-inflammatory balm should also be in your bag.
3. Insect repellents
Planning an outdoor outing on Valentine’s Day? Insect repellent and appropriate clothing with a helmet and eye protection should be with you. These can help prevent insect bites and protect your eyes.
4. Check food and water source
You can’t cook everything and take it with you. But only eat food from safe and clean places. Consider buying bottled water to avoid food poisoning and illnesses from contaminated water. Make sure the restroom you use looks hygienic so you don’t get urinary tract infections, and wash your hands regularly.
5. Sunscreen and hydration
A good quality sunscreen will help prevent sunburn (ways to prevent sun damage). Outdoor activities can make you sweat and cause dehydration, so take a bottle of water with you and take sips from time to time.
6. Prepare your body
In the case of planned hikes at high altitudes, acclimatization prepares your body in advance to be physically fit to endure and enjoy the trip, says Dr. Lokhande.
Benefits of traveling with your partner
It seems romantic to travel with your partner, especially on Valentine’s Day. Dr. Ghosh says traveling with your partner helps build a healthy relationship. Couples who spend time together on vacation have a positive effect on their relationship. It helps them learn and grow together and maintain a strong bond (tips to strengthen your romantic bond).
Tips for maintaining a healthy relationship while traveling with your partner
For a smooth trip, follow these tips:
1. Involve your partner
It’s great if you involve your partner from the start of the trip planning. Consider both your budget, your time frame and your preferred destination, suggests Dr. Ghosh.
2. Distribute responsibilities
Don’t do everything on your own, share responsibilities with your partner based on your individual strengths.
3. Combine Bucket Lists
Prepare a combo list of what you want to do on the trip, such as water sports or hiking. Try to do and enjoy activities that you and your partner enjoy.
4. Communication along the way
Communicate with your partner if you feel uncomfortable, stressed, anxious for any reason. Do not try to hide your feelings and try to understand and ask your partner regularly during a trip if he appreciates or needs something.
Have the time of your life celebrating love!
