Whether it’s taking walks, scaling dunes, biking rail trails, taking a dip in a lake, or kayaking along one of Michigan’s pristine rivers, the average RVer is likely fairly active since they are “outdoorsy.” Being outside and partaking in physical activities, whether they are strenuous or not, are good for the heart, body, and mind.

Recent events have brought the topic of health front and center. It’s already well known that stronger, healthier bodies that are well cared for tend to do better when illness hits. We need to take care of ourselves physically as well as take care of our living environments to ensure we are as healthy as possible. Here are some things you can do to help ward off the bugs – and we don’t mean the kind that fly, crawl, or scurry.

  1. Stay active. You don’t need to be a marathoner or an avid cyclist to reap the benefits of physical exercise. It can be as simple as 20-30 minutes of light to moderate activity a few times a week, such as taking a brisk walk, biking a few times around the campground, or even gardening. Staying active reduces your risk of developing several diseases, including diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. More than that, exercise and physical activity helps our brains. We feel more positive and ward off cognitive decline.
  2. Eat right. No fast food. Okay, that may not be realistic on the road. Less fast food. If you do, then choose smaller portions or lower calorie items from the menu (everyone seems to have calories listed these days). If you go for what you crave, try to save part of it for later so that all of the calories aren’t consumed at once. In the summer and fall, visit farmer’s markets for fresh produce and homemade breads. Eating plenty of vegetables and fruits and whole grains is good for you – and you feel full for longer. No need to skimp on the alcohol or dessert, as long as it’s in moderation.
  3. Keep surfaces clean. Bacteria – and viruses – can last for a time on surfaces depending on the material. Some situations cause bacteria to grow or attract unpleasant roommates, which you want to avoid. Wipe down the dining room table and any counters or built-in cabinets (such as in bedroom areas) with either a bleach-water solution (1/3 cup bleach per 1 gallon of water OR 2 tablespoons bleach per 1-quart water) or a pre-bottled spray that is highly effective at killing germs (99.9%); just follow the directions as to how long the fluid needs to sit and rest before being wiped away so that the surface is adequately disinfected. Some messes require immediate attention. Clean up food and drink spills immediately and thoroughly, especially in the fridge, microwave, or inside cabinets.
  4. Keep the floor clean. First of all, consider taking shoes off before entering the RV. This can seem a hassle but it helps keep a lot of dirt and grime outside. Sweep the floor every day, and vacuum if you have carpet or area rugs. Use a hand vac for tighter spaces and the insides of drawers and cabinets.
  5. Disinfect commonly touched areas. You should have some disinfecting wipes or household spray to clean off frequently touched areas such as door handles, faucets, cabinet hardware, bathroom surfaces such as the sink ledge and the toilet handle, and remotes. You want everything be as sanitary as possible. Do this a couple times a week.
  6. Reduce odors. RVs are compact spaces, so a little smell goes a long way and can permeate throughout the rig. We don’t feel good or enjoy being in the RV when it stinks. Dirty laundry can be kept in the bathroom so that it’s not in an open area. Bathroom smells can be reduced by choosing to utilize the campground facilities instead. Open the windows every day for some fresh air and use vent fans to help circulate it through the RV.
  7. Keep medicine and first aid supplies handy. You’re bound to have a blister, laceration, sunburn, or headache or two along the way. Make sure you have the proper supplies on hand such as burn cream, anti-itch cream, hydrogen peroxide, Neosporin, Tylenol and aspirin (adult and child versions if traveling with both), band-aids, and ace wraps. Taking care of your body when it gets injured (More first aid tips for people and dogs.)

Remember, a clean RV means comfortable, healthy travel, and a fit you make a healthier – and happier – you.