Self-Care Travel Tips:

Enjoy the Journey *AND* the Destination

Traveling the world has been my passion for as long as I can remember, and I’ve been lucky enough to do it as a career for over two decades. If I had to count how many flights, cruises, train rides and taxis I’ve taken, I honestly don’t think I could do it. Let’s just say, it’s been a LOT. 

I’ve seen and done it all when it comes to traveling, and I’ve learned how to plan for almost everything. One of the joys of my job is getting to share my lessons with you so you don’t have to learn the hard way! 

Want more tips, ideas and insider perks? Reach out here, and we’ll bring your travel dream to life.

Going on vacation disrupts your schedule, can cause you to let go of your daily habits and usually means eating a lot differently than you do at home. All of this can leave you feeling pretty uncomfortable. Not the way you want to feel in your travel dream! So today I have nine go-to self-care tips that can keep you feeling great when you travel: 

1. Eat watermelon, not pineapple

Watermelon is an excellent source of hydration because it contains about 90% water, making it ideal for staying refreshed, especially in hot or humid travel destinations. It’s also lower in acid compared to pineapple, which can sometimes cause irritation or discomfort for those with sensitive stomachs. Additionally, watermelon contains antioxidants like lycopene that promote skin health, and its natural sugars provide a quick energy boost.

2. Fast a little to reduce inflammation

Short periods of intermittent fasting can help reduce inflammation by giving your digestive system a break and allowing your body to focus on cellular repair. This can be especially helpful while traveling when changes in diet and routine can cause bloating or other digestive issues. Even skipping a meal or delaying eating for a few hours can have anti-inflammatory benefits and help you feel more energized and less bloated.

3. Keep your immune system up with supplements & protein drinks

Travel can be taxing on your immune system, with changes in time zones, exposure to new environments, and increased stress. To counteract this, focus on boosting your immunity with supplements such as vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and probiotics. Protein drinks can be a quick and convenient source of nourishment to maintain muscle strength and energy, especially on long travel days when balanced meals may not be readily available.

4. Water or club soda, not soda or juice; tequila or vodka, not wine or beer

When choosing between beverages, opt for water or club soda instead of sugary juice or soda mixers, especially when consuming alcohol. Tequila is often considered a “cleaner” option because it’s made from agave, a natural sugar, and contains fewer additives. It also acts as a prebiotic, which can promote healthy gut bacteria. Choosing a distilled alcohol like tequila or vodka (when consumed in moderation) can lead to fewer hangovers due to fewer impurities. Plus, pairing your drink with water helps you stay hydrated, reducing the chances of dehydration-related hangovers.

5. Stay active during your trip

Even light exercise, such as walking, stretching, or doing simple bodyweight exercises, can significantly reduce travel fatigue and boost your energy levels. During long flights or drives, your muscles can become stiff, and circulation can slow, leading to discomfort or even swelling. Taking a few minutes to move around every couple of hours can improve blood flow, prevent muscle cramps, and help you feel more refreshed when you reach your destination. Whether it’s a morning stroll through the city or stretching in your hotel room, staying active is key to maintaining your energy and overall well-being.

6. Hydrate consistently

Proper hydration is essential, especially when traveling. Airplanes, in particular, have very low humidity, which can cause dehydration quickly. By bringing a refillable water bottle and drinking water throughout your trip, you can avoid the fatigue, headaches, and dry skin that often accompany dehydration. Staying hydrated is also vital when traveling to warmer destinations, where you may lose water more quickly through sweating. Make it a habit to sip water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty, and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol, which can dehydrate you further.

7. Pack healthy snacks

Long travel days often mean relying on whatever food is available at airports, gas stations, or hotels, which can be high in sugar and fat but low in nutrition. By packing healthy snacks like nuts, fruits, granola, or protein bars, you ensure you always have nourishing options at hand. These snacks are not only better for your health, but they also help maintain your energy levels and mood during your trip. Protein bars or mixed nuts can keep you satisfied for longer periods, preventing the blood sugar crashes that come with processed or sugary foods.

8. Take short breaks on long flights

Sitting for extended periods on long-haul flights can cause discomfort and stiffness. To keep circulation moving and avoid issues like swollen ankles or even deep vein thrombosis (DVT), it’s important to stand up, walk, or stretch at regular intervals. Even small movements, such as flexing your feet or doing seated stretches, can make a significant difference. Aim to get up at least once every hour or two to stretch your legs, walk down the aisle, or do some gentle stretches in your seat. This helps improve circulation, keeps your muscles relaxed, and reduces post-flight fatigue.

9. Use essential oils for relaxation

Travel can be stressful, whether it’s the hustle of airports, long security lines, or adjusting to new environments. Bringing a small bottle of essential oil, such as lavender or eucalyptus, can help you stay calm and relaxed during these moments. Lavender oil, known for its calming properties, can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Simply dab a few drops on your wrists, neck, or travel pillow. Eucalyptus oil can be invigorating and help with breathing, especially if you’re feeling a little congested during your trip. These natural remedies offer a portable, simple way to bring a sense of calm to even the most hectic travel situations.

So there you have it, some self-care strategies to make the journey much more pleasant. Use these to make sure your vacation truly starts when you leave your house – and you feel your best while enjoying the destination.

Want more tips on how to make the most out of each trip? Reach out today and we’ll share all of our insider tips and experience with you as we plan the perfect escape.

Relax, we’ll take care of everything,

Amy Westerman
President
The Curated Travel Collection