Your holiday checklist for managing health
Key points
- Refill prescriptions, restock supplies and book appointments before the holiday rush.
- Eat regular meals, limit alcohol and keep medications in your carry-on when you travel.
- Protect sleep and downtime. Remember that one off day won’t undo your progress.
The winter holidays bring fun and excitement. They also create disruption to routines. Between festive food, travel, later nights and holiday-related stress, it can become challenging to prioritize wellness. But, thinking ahead can help you enjoy the season while staying on track with your health goals.
Use this checklist to prepare for and stay on track despite the health challenges that can get in the way during the holiday season:
Navigate holiday meals
Travel like a pro
Stay on top of your schedule
Support your emotional health
Focusing on the steps in this checklist will help you make the best possible choices through challenging circumstances. Remember, there’s no such thing as “perfect” when it comes to managing your health. One off day or choice won’t undo the progress you’ve made. Be proud of the commitment you’ve made to better health this holiday season.
FAQs
What should a sick day plan include?
A sick day plan spells out what to do if you get sick during the holidays. It usually covers how to manage your medications when you’re unwell. It also includes which symptoms mean you should contact your care team. You can also add who can help with things like meals or errands. If you live with a chronic condition like diabetes, ask your care team what to watch for. For example, how often to check your blood sugar when you’re sick.
What if I overeat or skip my healthy habits for a day?
That’s normal and nothing to feel guilty about. Don’t skip meals or cut back hard the next day to make up for it. Just go back to your usual routine at the next meal. A balanced breakfast, a short walk and a glass of water are easy ways to start again.
How do I say no to food or drinks without feeling awkward?
A friendly, simple answer usually works best, like “No thanks, I’m all set” or “It looks great, maybe later.” Holding a drink or a small plate can also cut down on repeat offers. Making choices that support your health is part of setting boundaries. You don’t owe anyone an explanation.
What should I pack in a travel health kit?
Start with your medications plus a few extra doses, your medication list and copies of your prescriptions. Add any monitoring supplies you use, like test strips or a blood pressure cuff. Then pack basic over-the-counter items, hand sanitizer, healthy snacks and an empty water bottle. Keep everything in your carry-on so it’s always with you.
Main takeaway:
Planning ahead can make it easier to stay healthy during the holidays. Before the season starts, refill prescriptions, restock supplies and make a sick day plan. During the holiday season, eat regularly, limit alcohol and take a walk after meals. When you travel, keep your medications with you and know where you can get care. Keep your sleep, medication and monitoring routines as steady as you can and make time for your emotional health. Most of all, aim for progress, not perfection.
Sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Healthy holidays. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed October 14, 2026.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Travelers’ health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed October 14, 2026.
- American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. Standards of Care in Diabetes. American Diabetes Association. Accessed October 14, 2026.
- US Department of Agriculture. MyPlate. US Department of Agriculture. Accessed October 14, 2026.
- National Institute of Mental Health. Caring for your mental health. National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 14, 2026.
- American Heart Association. American Heart Association recommendations for physical activity in adults. American Heart Association. Accessed October 14, 2026.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About adult vaccination. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed October 14, 2026
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