COVID-19 has kept us cooped this year, so getting out into nature is more important than ever. Even as you enjoy the great outdoors remember to protect your health, and not just from this dreaded strain of the coronavirus. Here are five essentials you should have on hand for your trip (besides mask and sanitizer).
1) Insect repellent
With COVID-19 around, it’s easy to forget Jamaica is home to the most prolific killer in the animal kingdom: mosquitoes. Viruses like Dengue Fever, Zika and Chikungunya can be life-threatening, so protect yourself from bites. Before you head out, find a well-ventilated area and apply insect repellent to any exposed area of skin. While some natural products, like oil of lemon eucalyptus, can help, DEET or Picardin-based repellents are the most recommended. Whatever you use be sure to pop it into your bag if you will be out for a while, so you can reapply it every few hours.
2) Sunscreen
COVID-19 doesn’t discriminate, and neither do UV rays. Just as masks are now must-wear items, so are broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreens with an SPF of 30 and more. Apply at least 15 minutes before you go outside and reapply every few hours.
3) Shoes
Remember when we said not all masks are created equal? The same applies to shoes. The right shoes, of course, depends on where you’re going and what you’ll be doing. A jog or hike, for instance, calls for well-fitting trail running shoes, while the slippery boulders and gravel around Jamaica’s waterfalls call for water shoes. Chronixx might forgo sneakers so warm sand grains can “massage him feet”, but hot sand can burn; so bring a pair of sturdy leather sandals or rubber slippers, just in case.
4) A reusable water bottle
Keeping hydrated is critical to staying healthy, especially during outdoor adventures. Bringing your own water bottle helps you avoid dehydration and sharing more than just a cool drink. For hikes, look for a bottle with a clip-on holder for easy access and free hands while you go.
5) First Aid Kit
You never know what could happen. Along with your alcohol-based hand rub, include in your first-aid kit items like a thermometer, band-aids, cleansing wipes, hydrocortisone and antiseptic ointments. The more off the beaten path you go, the better stocked you should be.
Before cabin fever takes hold, enjoy nature and get a breath of fresh air (behind your mask) with these essential items!