1. Health: The unique high-altitude environment of Tibet can have certain effects on your body. Therefore, it’s necessary to get a medical check-up before traveling to Tibet. Only start your journey when you’re confirmed to have no major health issues with your heart, lungs, or other vital organs. Before entering the plateau, avoid overexertion and make sure to rest well. A good psychological mindset is the best remedy for overcoming and conquering altitude sickness.
2. Altitude Sickness: When traveling in Tibet, the most important thing to watch out for is altitude sickness. The symptoms vary from person to person and are hard to predict before arriving on the plateau. Upon first arriving, everyone may experience varying degrees of shortness of breath, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing due to oxygen deficiency. These symptoms usually improve or disappear after 2–4 days. Mild altitude sickness often heals without treatment, so don’t rush to use oxygen, as it may lead to dependency. When you first arrive, avoid fast walking, running, or strenuous labor. It’s best to rest completely for half a day, and go to bed early and sleep more the first night.
3. For the first few days on the plateau, avoid frequent bathing to prevent catching a cold due to chilling. Colds are a common trigger for acute high-altitude pulmonary edema (which is difficult to cure in low-oxygen conditions).
4. If you feel headache or body aches, or even have trouble sleeping, taking a pain relief tablet can provide relief for up to 12 hours.
5. The weather on the plateau is dry. It may cause some travelers to have nosebleeds or chapped lips. Be sure to bring lip balm, sunscreen, and skin care products. The strong sunlight and ultraviolet rays on the plateau can harm your eyes, so prepare a sun hat and sunglasses.
6. To maintain healthy skin on the plateau, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Another tip: always wash your face before going to bed at night, but it’s better not to wash your face in the morning. For outdoor activities lasting over 10 days, if hygiene conditions are poor, it’s best not to wash your face—the layer of dust can actually protect your skin. Of course, applying a bit of butter is even better. A little dirt is okay; the real risk is washing your skin too clean, which can easily lead to sunburn and peeling.
7. Keep warm. Tibet has significant temperature differences between day and night, and temperatures are especially low in the early morning and evening. Generally, for every 1,000 meters increase in altitude, the temperature drops by 6°C. Even in summer, you should pack a jacket or sweater.
8. It’s recommended that you consider bringing the following medications: cold medicine, anti-diarrhea pills, anti-inflammatory drugs, band-aids, painkillers, vitamin C tablets, gauze, and eye drops. Avoid buying items like oxygen pillows or oxygen tanks. Many who buy oxygen pillows never end up using them due to lack of oxygen issues, but they often find them burdensome to carry and are reluctant to throw them away (priced around 70 yuan each).
9. Always use the restroom when you stop the car, regardless of whether you feel the need, because the next stop might be four or five hours away.
10. Bring small gifts with you. Children in the deep plateau regions often lack stationery and toys. They often treasure colorful film canisters and plastic bags. While enjoying the beautiful nature, don’t forget to show a small token of appreciation to the hosts of the plateau.
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