Laura Danieri Hello! This site contains affiliate links. If you click through these links and make a purchase, Everyday Resolutions will receive a little support at no extra cost to you. Your support is super-duper appreciated, thank you! Read here for full disclaimer.
Hangovers While Traveling
Have a hangover on vacation? Ugh! Sometimes, vacation excitement can get away from you and you might imbibe a bit too much. It happens to the best of us (sometimes at the airport before we even go anywhere). However, nobody wants to miss out on vacation plans, excursions, sight-seeing, and adventure because of a hangover! And no one wants to remember the Louvre or Machu Pichu or whatever for how awful they felt.
Dealing with a hangover is unpleasant, and there are no magic cures other than moderation or abstinence, but there are several strategies you can try to alleviate the symptoms. Here are some common hangover treatments that may help.
BEFORE
- Eat fatty foods: Apparently, eating fat coats the stomach and slows the absorption of alcohol. I’m not sure what the science says, but my husband learned this technique in Ukraine and swears by it. Cheeseburger, sausage, bread and butter or olive oil—whatever is available.
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: If you start out dehydrated, you are just giving the hangover a head start.
- Beware drinking on the airplane or as soon as you arrive. Flying will tend to dehydrate you, so it’s especially easily to feel hungover if you drink a bunch on the plane. If you’re suffering from jet lag, a hangover just adds to the joy.
DURING
- Hydrate: Many of the symptoms we associate with a hangover stem from dehydration, so it’s important to replenish your body with water. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after consuming alcohol to stay hydrated and reduce the severity of a hangover. A simple strategy is to drink a glass or bottle of water with every alcoholic drink or between alcoholic drinks.
- Pay attention to what you’re drinking. Most wines have roughly the same alcohol content. But beers now vary a great deal—many light lagers and pale ales will have 4-5 percent alcohol while many IPAs can have over 7 percent. That doesn’t sound like much difference but the latter has 75 percent more alcohol than the former! And a nice Belgian trippel can have 12 percent or more. Liquors are generally 40-50 percent alcohol, so if you’re drinking a mixed drink, order a “tall” to get a little more mixer in your glass.
AFTER
- Drink electrolyte-rich beverages: Consuming electrolyte-rich drinks like sports drinks or coconut water can help replenish essential minerals and nutrients lost due to alcohol consumption. Or, try rehydration sachets, often used to combat dehydration from illnesses like diarrhea or vomiting, as they can also be beneficial for a hangover. These sachets contain electrolytes and minerals that can help restore hydration levels quickly. I am a big fan of LMNT Hydration Powder. It is kind of salty (in a weirdly delicious way) but I think it is very yummy. Use plenty of water with each packet to dilute it properly. There are many flavors to choose from!
- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin can help alleviate headaches and body aches associated with a hangover. Try to take a dose before bed and you will thank yourself in the morning. However, avoid acetaminophen (Tylenol) as it can be hard on the liver when combined with alcohol. (HERE is more info on packing your Travel First Aid Kit)
- Stomach relief: Stomach relief products like antacids or bismuth (Pepto-Bismol) can help relieve abdominal symptoms.
- Rest: Give your body the rest it needs by getting enough sleep. Alcohol can disrupt your sleep patterns, and a good rest can help you recover more quickly.
- Light exercise: Engaging in light exercise, such as going for a walk or doing some gentle stretching, can help increase blood flow, release endorphins, and promote overall well-being.
(HERE is more info on Exercising While Traveling) - Healthy foods: Consuming nutrient-rich foods can help replenish essential vitamins and minerals. Opt for foods high in potassium, such as bananas or leafy greens, as they can help restore electrolyte balance.
- Ginger or peppermint: These natural remedies can help soothe an upset stomach or reduce nausea associated with a hangover. You can try ginger tea or peppermint tea, or try ginger chews and peppermint drops.
- Avoid caffeine: While a cup of coffee might seem tempting to combat fatigue, it can further dehydrate you. If you can’t go without caffeine, try drinking a cup of tea instead.
Remember, the best way to prevent a hangover is to drink alcohol in moderation or avoid it altogether. I know, I know, it’s vacay and sometimes, it just gets away from you. But, next time you will be better prepared with all of these tips in your back pocket!
Do you want other tips on healthy traveling, CLICK HERE.
Live well. Be well.
Laura
