By Emily Miller
Business travelers face different health risks than do leisure travelers due to the nature, frequency and duration of the trip.
In 2012, an estimated 5.1 million US residents traveled overseas for business and this number is expected to increase due to the increasingly global economy. Frequent business travelers should educate themselves on potential risks and how to prevent them.
A key part of business travel is that a trip may arise very quickly, which doesn’t always allow for much planning and preparation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends seeing a doctor four to six weeks before a trip, but if you don’t have that much time, even a last-minute visit can be useful.
Some vaccines can be given on shortened schedules or may offer partial protection, even if you don’t have time for all the doses. It is advisable to speak with your regular physician prior to departure about potential health risks and what you can do to stay healthy while on business.
You can also visit the CDC’s travel destination page for additional information specific towards your destination.
To ensure you have completed everything you need to do prior to leaving, create a checklist that includes everything from packing essentials, home/pet sitting plans, informing credit card companies and updating insurance policies.
If you are checking a bag, it is also recommended to carry an extra set of clothes in your carry-on bag incase your luggage gets lost or stolen.
It is also recommended to pack a travel health kit – including first-aid supplies, any prescription medication and any over-the-counter medicine to help you deal with flight travel and potential jetlag.
Due to the nature of the business, you may not receive much notice about flights or other travel plans. If possible, schedule your flight the day or a couple of day prior your work obligations.
Stay hydrated while you’re traveling, and avoid consuming coffee or alcohol, as they will only dehydrate you. Try to sleep on long flights; if you have trouble sleeping on planes, you might want to consider packing a mild sedative in your carry-on luggage.
While work should be your first priority while flying, remember keep your stress level to minimum. You can do this by eating healthy, exercise regularly, and avoid alcohol and securing a good night’s sleep.
You should also consider taking out travel insurance if you are either a frequent business traveler or are flying overseas. Travel insurance can purchased to help combat against life’s unexpected events such as delayed or cancelled flights, lost or stolen luggage and other travel related incidents.
Depending on your company, they may supply you with some form of travel insurance or you can purchase a policy on your own.
