Pack Like a Pro T O S TAY H E A L T H Y O N T H E R O A D
Travel gives us the opportunity to break out of our regular routine. Unfortunately, some travel experiences — crossing time zones, eating different foods, or a change in climate — can sap your energy and lower your body’s defenses. Use this packing list to feel your best during and after travel.
REFILLABLE WAT E R B O T T L E
FIRST AID
DISINFECTING WIPES
PRESCRIPTION M E D I C AT I O N S
HAND SANITIZER
SLEEP AIDS
Hydration is key to maintaining your energy levels and staying healthy. Stay on top of your hydration by carrying an insulated, reusable water bottle. If you’re flying, remember to keep the bottle empty and fill it after you’ve passed through any security checkpoints.
Minimize contact with germs by wiping down your seat area— armrests, tray tables, seatbelt buckles, air vents, and any other buttons or controls. In your hotel room or cruise cabin, disinfect surfaces such as door handles, light switches, bathroom fixtures, and the TV remote.
Washing your hands with soap and water is important, but a bottle of hand sanitizer is handy for those times when you can’t get to a sink.
A small first aid kit comes in handy for treating a minor illness or injury. It should include antibiotic ointment, anti-itch cream, bandages, antacids, pain reliever, and a decongestant. Your doctor may also recommend medications to treat travelers’ diarrhea or other common ailments.
Never put essential medications in your checked luggage. Be sure to carry enough of a supply to last a few extra days, in case of a travel delay. It’s also a good idea to bring a copy of your prescriptions or be able to access them online in case you happen to lose your checked luggage or its arrival is delayed.
You can’t always control how much light or sound enters your hotel room or cruise cabin. Create a more restful sleeping environment with items like an eye mask, ear plugs, essential oils, and chamomile tea bags. A white SUN PROTECTION The sun is more intense in tropical noise machine or phone app can also locations, at higher altitudes, or when drown out noisy neighbors and help it’s reflected off water, sand, or snow. you catch some shut eye. Protect yourself with a broad-spectrum sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide- Y O G A M AT Long travel days and lugging heavy brimmed hat. bags can lead to muscle tension. A lightweight yoga mat rolls up for V I TA M I N S easy packing and gives you a clean AND SUPPLEMENTS Taking extra Vitamin C, probiotics, space to stretch. Remember to wipe and other supplements may help boost down both sides with a disinfectant your immune system while traveling. wipe before you roll it up and pack Remember to ask your medical it away again. provider for recommendations and appropriate dosages. 6
