Travel days don’t have to be long and exhausting! Here are my tips to stay comfortable, healthy and rested while you’re on the road.
Dress for success
The number one most important rule for a comfortable travel day is to dress appropriately. This means stretchy or loose-fitting clothes, and lots of layers. I recommend wearing layers that are easy to take on and off (think zip-ups and button-ups rather than pull-overs). I also highly recommend comfortable shoes that are easy to slip on and off. If you choose to wear sandals I recommend packing a pair of cozy socks in case your toes get cold!
Don’t go hungry
Opportunities for purchasing food can be very unpredictable on a long travel day. This is why it’s important to pack plenty of snacks. Bring non-perishable food that doesn’t require any prep and isn’t prone to getting squished. Protein bars, dried fruit, and nuts are all good choices! If you are traveling internationally remember to check the customs regulations, as some foods are prohibited.
Stay hydrated
In my opinion, the secret answer to almost every problem in life is to drink more water (okay maybe not every problem, but it never hurts!). Staying hydrated will boost your immune system, help you get better rest, and just make you feel better in general. A refillable water bottle is a must-pack!
Block out the chaos
If you’re looking to catch some sleep on your plane/bus/train ride (I know I usually am) be sure to pack some ear plugs and an eye mask. It can be hard to sleep in an unfamiliar place with all the chaos going on around you. Blocking out the light and noise can be a big help! Use caution if you are traveling alone though, people may take the opportunity to take advantage of a sleeping traveler and steal their things.
Keep your mind active
Sometimes sleeping is simply not an option, so you’ll want alternatives to pass the time. Downloading a couple of audiobooks is always a great idea. I recommend downloading a few different books (different genres), so you have options depending on your mood. It’s also nice to have some games that challenge your mind, my favorite is sudoku! Keep in mind, an internet connection will not always be available, so make sure your games and reading material are pre-downloaded or paper-based.
Stay feeling healthy
If you are prone to motion-sickness (or even if you are not) I recommend bringing motion sickness medicine, like Dramamine, just in case. It can really be a day-saver! As a bonus, a side affect of the medication is drowsiness, so if you’re looking to get some rest on your trip this will do double-duty. Motion sickness can also cause headaches for many people so I recommend packing Tylenol as well. If you are looking for a more natural remedy, peppermint essential oil has been really effective for me in treating nausea and headaches.
Invest in a tablet
If you are a person who travels a lot, and have room in your budget, a tablet is a game-changer. You can download movies, books and games, work on projects, and in general just elevate your travel game. It’s a one-time investment that you will not regret!
Are there any tips that I’ve left off the list? I’d love to hear from you! hi@www.blogfeed.org
