What I Bring With Me to Stay Comfortable While Traveling
Traveling is exciting, but it also asks a lot from your body. Long flights, car rides, different beds, and carrying bags can all create tension in places you normally do not notice. Over time I have learned that a few simple items make a big difference in how comfortable and supported I feel during travel. I keep these in my carry on or weekend bag so they are always within reach. I am including links so you can explore them if they feel helpful for your own trips.
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For my neck patients, I always recommend taking your own pillow with you if you can. If it is not possible to travel with your pillow, I have used my sweatshirt vs a too firm/too thick hotel pillow
For my low back and hip patients, traveling with a yoga block or 12 inch foam roller can give you an advantage seated on the plane. Sitting on either item will raise your hips so they are higher than your knees supporting a neutral spine. If you have an adventurous trip planned you will be happy you brought your foam roller to keep your quads healthy and happy.
One thing I always have packed in my bag is a massage ball. It is small enough to fit in any bag and is perfect for easing tension between the shoulder blades, in the glutes or in your legs after a long day of travel. A few minutes on my massage ball everyday can completely reset how my body feels.
Another item I never travel without is a TENS unit. For patients with any sort of discomfort , this can be used seated on the plane, standing in a long line or when you return from a fun day of adventuring. (Please avoid using if you are pregnant, have active cancer or have a pacemaker)
If you might be traveling where a gym is not accessible, bringing one or two 5 foot long resistance bands can help you keep your muscles fired up and active while traveling. When traveling it is important to maintain a routine that will keep you aware of your posture, core and glute activation wherever you go.
The last thing I keep with me is electrolyte packets. Whether I am feeling under the weather, unable to eat a meal or I take a longer excursion than I intended; having something to bring my body back to homeostasis is key. We lose the most amount of hydration flying in airplanes, so the beginning of your trip should be focused on getting you back to neutral.
These items are not meant to create a complicated routine. They simply help my body feel grounded and supported while I am away from home. A few minutes of intentional movement or gentle pressure can make a meaningful difference in how you feel for the rest of the day.
The more you learn what your body needs during travel, the easier it becomes to create small habits that support comfort and ease. Whether you travel often or only a few times a year, having a few simple tools with you can help your body feel steady and cared for no matter where you go.