Long drive days are not only mentally taxing, but they can also be taxing on your health. If you have several long RV travel days ahead of you, here are three tips to keep you physically fit and healthy.
Stretch Your Legs and Step it Up
Whenever you stop for fuel or food, take a few minutes to walk around. Not only does this help with circulation, but it also gives your body a much-needed break from sitting. Get out and get those steps in and get your heart rate up. You’ll be amazed at how quickly those steps add up.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Drink plenty of water. Yes, it might mean more bathroom breaks, but staying hydrated is essential for our overall health, especially during long drives.
Sun Protection
You are highly exposed to UV rays when you drive! A member of the RV Miles community recently introduced me to the concept of a driving sleeve. It’s a protective sleeve you can wear on your left arm to shield it from the sun, reducing the risk of sunburns and, consequently, skin cancer.
Skin cancer is 6-10% more likely to appear on the left arm for the average person. You can only imagine how much worse it is for frequent drivers. You are exposed to 20 times the UV radiation on your left arm when you drive vs. your right.
And it’s not just your arm. Consider applying sunscreen to the left side of your face. Or at least move that sun visor to the side window when the sun is shining from the left. It’s a simple step that can make a significant difference,
Staying healthy on long travel days ensures you can make the most of your RV vacation. The open road is full of adventures, but it’s essential to ensure we’re taking the necessary precautions to enjoy them fully and healthily.