If you’ve been tracking my social media of late, you’ll notice that I am always on the road or on the flight. Yes, it’s fun, and yes, it’s purpose-driven, and yes, it can sometimes feel quite glamorous; but, jet-setting (for work or pleasure) comes with its own set of complications. The foremost issue is self-care. It’s easy to run yourself ragged, hopping from one locale to another, sometimes feeling homesick, and other times just feeling plain-old sick (tummy, head cold, you name it). Here are some surefire tips I have picked up along the way that keep me feeling A+ when I’m traveling.
Wipe it Down
I’m not a germophobe, but years of working in a clean environment for pharmaceutical companies I quickly see so many unclean surfaces on a plane. I always use some quick hand wipes or a travel sanitizer spray to wipe it all down: that includes the little TV, the service tray, and all the buttons around your seat. Sure, the person next to you may give you a side-eye, but at the end of the flight, you’ll be the one whistling dixie with nary a sniffle.
Just a Dab
To avoid getting sick on planes put a little Neosporin on a cotton swab and coats the inside your nostrils. Not only does it create a barrier for germs, it also lubricates the skin in the nose. That’s important because when the skin cracks, germs can come a running in, so the coating of the Neosporin doubly protects you it’s a great tip. Try it!
Portable Hug
I never travel without a scarf or thin cashmere blanket that feels like a hug. Throw it in your purse or backpack, and no matter how far you travel, you will always feel comforted both on and off the plane with something that feels and smells like home. This has become invaluable to me when catching some Zzzzzs on a flight or feeling swaddled in a hotel room.
Go Pro
Nope, not the little video camera that I can’t quite figure out – I mean gooooo pro…biotics! Always travel with a high strain probiotic, and hydrate like you’re dying of thirst – because even if you’re not, for your body – the thirst is real. Keep your gut health in check and honestly stave off jet lag if you’re globetrotting on your travails.
Be an Efficiency Expert
Check your flight schedule before you go, make sure you check-in online, give yourself enough time to get to the airport – blah, blah, blah – those are all the things your mom tells you, so I certainly don’t need to. BUT, what I have learned is that having a perfect travel folio, or the most efficient piece of carry-on luggage that makes you feel like a frequent flier, things will speed along so you can avoid fewer airport hiccups and can focus on the vacate part of the vacation.
If you eat on the schedule of wherever you’ve landed, you won’t feel jet-lagged. I was skeptical at first, but it’s your stomach that tells your brain when it’s feeling wonky. By simply eating a meal at the time the locals are when you land, you trick your brain a bit and stay much more on track, and much less cranky.
Nice