Herpes-Proof Your Vacation: A Traveler's Guide to Outbreak-Free Adventures
Don't Let Herpes Crash the Party: Smart Trips for Stress-Free Travel
I love to travel, and if you’re anything like me, you’re already planning your next getaway. As I write this from Lake Anna, Virginia, where I’m soaking up sun and savoring the early morning sunrises, I’m reminded that even the best vacations can come with unexpected hiccups.
We all love a good vacation, but sometimes, our bodies have different plans, especially when managing herpes. While you may not immediately connect herpes and travel, the side effects of your journey may increase the chances for an outbreak —yes, including cold sores. This guide will help you understand potential triggers and tips for a worry-free vacation.
Common Travel Triggers for Herpes Outbreaks
Packing your favorite swimsuit is a no-brainer, packing for potential health matters might require a bit more thought. While travel itself isn’t directly correlated to herpes outbreaks, here are a few factors associated with it that may impact the likelihood of an occurrence:
Stress: Travel brings its own highlight reel of stress, from last-minute packing frenzies (I call it ‘Panic Packing’) to the chaos of airport acrobatics and family “bonding” time that can feel more like a WWE match. Even small inconveniences can add up, especially if you’re already tired.
Fatigue: Jet lag, anyone? Jet lag and disrupted sleep can weaken your immune system, potentially leading to an outbreak.
New Foods: While there’s no single food that triggers an outbreak for everyone, trying new cuisines or indulging in your known trigger foods may increase the risk of an outbreak popping up.
Alcohol: Planning to sip cocktails by the pool or indulge in that all-inclusive drink package? Maybe you’re dreaming of lazy beach days with a Piña Colada, in hand, watching your worries float away on the tide. While there’s nothing wrong with a vacation buzz, remember that alcohol can be more than a headache waiting to happen.
Sunlight: Between the beach, hiking, or kayaking, I’m always outside and on the go for my vacations. Know that increased sun exposure may elevate the chance of an outbreak for certain individuals.
Sex: If you’re traveling with a partner, or planning to date at your destination, be mindful that friction from sexual activity (self-pleasure, included) could be a trigger.
Menstruation: For those who menstruate, outbreaks may coincide with your cycle. If possible, consider planning around your period.
Develop Travel-Friendly Coping Strategies
Now that we’ve gone over potential outbreak triggers, let’s talk strategies to keep them in check. While it’s not guaranteed that you’ll have a herpes outbreak while traveling, being prepared can help you avoid being caught off guard. Here are some travel-friendly strategies to help you stay outbreak-free while you’re away:
Pack your antivirals: If you use antivirals, whether as suppressive therapy or at the first sign of an outbreak, keep them handy while traveling. I always carry a portable medication bag for my vitamins and any medications I might need in my carry-on — including antivirals.
Take a nap: The power of an afternoon nap is underrated. While international travel can make this difficult, embracing a nap when available is a great option to catch up on sleep. I swear by my weighted eye mask and always bring it along so I can drift off no matter the time zone.
Develop healthier sleep habits: Sleeping in a new bed or area away from home can be challenging. In addition to my weighted eye mask, I have a weighted blanket at home and invested in a weighted travel blanket that I can take with me (so long as I’m just driving because I’m not adding an extra 15 pounds to my already over-stuffed luggage).
Be mindful of sun exposure: I love the sun, and try to soak up as much as I can when I’m near any body of water. But it’s important to be mindful of our exposure levels and sunscreen reapplication intervals. Taking breaks — even just for lunch — by setting reminders on your phone can help.
Hydrate between alcoholic beverages: Hydration is always a good idea, especially when you’re drinking and spending time in the sun. You don’t need to commit to a certain amount of ounces daily, but keeping a water bottle serves as a reminder to stay hydrated. If you’ve maybe had one too many Aperol spritzes, I’ve found electrolyte supplements, like Liquid IV, to be helpful before bed. They’re also super easy to pack in your suitcase or carry-on.
Bring lube!: While lube may not remove friction entirely, if you know friction can trigger an outbreak, bring a travel size lube. Plus, lube is always a good idea. If you’re traveling internationally, be sure to check any sex toy related restrictions in your destination country. Putting lube into a resealable travel size container may work, too.
Have a stress solution: Depending on where you are and who you’re traveling with, your options to manage and cope with stress may be limited. If you like movement (like me) to manage your emotions, taking a walk, portable gym equipment (e.g., resistance bands, cordless jumprope), or finding a yoga class nearby is ideal. Others may need to find a small space that’s their own or a date night out without the kids. Identifying the simple solutions to help you manage stress at home can make it easier to integrate while traveling.
Prepare, but prioritize your happy: I enjoy maintaining an active lifestyle while on vacation as much as I enjoy digging my toes into the sand. While you’re on vacation, you want to make sure you’re enjoying it. If herpes or avoiding outbreaks becomes the focus, you’ll lose sight of your reasoning for getting away.
Travel Takeaways
Traveling doesn’t guarantee an outbreak, so don’t let the fear of herpes monopolize your vacation. Life is short. Outbreaks happen. Time isn’t guaranteed.
You can do your best to minimize the chances of an outbreak, but sometimes they’ll still pop up. This is why shifting our attitude around them is key.
Knowing your triggers and packing smart can help you sidestep stress and stay focused on enjoying your adventure. Remember — herpes doesn’t have to hold you back — so pack your bags and let the journey begin!
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