Travel Tips to Ease Transitions

Embarking on a journey, whether for business or pleasure, can be an exciting adventure. However, it is important to prioritize self-care before, during, and after traveling to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. I travel extensively and here are a few essentials that I have found to help me transition between home, travel, and back home again:

Before Traveling:

1. Get Enough Rest: One of the best ways to prepare for travel is by ensuring you are well-rested. Adequate sleep will help maintain your energy levels and boost your immune system, leaving you feeling refreshed and ready for your adventure.
2. Stay Hydrated: Start hydrating a few days before your trip to prevent dehydration, especially if you are flying. Proper hydration can also help combat jet lag and keep you feeling alert and focused during your travels.
3. Pack Wisely: Make a checklist of essential items you will need for your trip, including medications, comfortable clothing, travel documents, and any other necessities. Packing strategically will help reduce stress and ensure you have everything you need while away from home. Try not to overpack. Your travel agent can help you with a packing list.  Always make a conscious decision to check baggage or not.
4. Plan Your Itinerary: Work with a travel agent who has suppliers and vendors in the countries you will be traveling to. They can help curate a personalized itinerary of activities you would like to do and places you would like to visit. They will also book accommodations and transportation in advance that can help alleviate last-minute stress and ensure a smoother travel experience.
5. Eat Well: Maintain a balanced diet leading up to your trip, focusing on nourishing foods that will provide you with sustained energy. Avoid heavy, greasy meals that may leave you feeling sluggish, and opt for lighter options instead.

During Traveling:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout your journey, especially during flights, to prevent dehydration. Airplane cabins have low humidity levels, which can lead to increased fluid loss, so it's essential to stay hydrated to avoid fatigue and discomfort.
2. Move Around: If you're traveling long distances, take breaks to stretch your legs and walk around periodically. Prolonged periods of sitting can lead to stiffness and discomfort, so make an effort to move around whenever possible to improve circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. Obviously, you cannot do this when the "fasten seatbelt" sign is on.  You also need to be aware and respectful of your seatmates.  It is best to walk when on your layover as much as possible.
3. Practice Good Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene habits while traveling by washing your hands frequently, especially before eating or touching your face. Carry hand sanitizer or disinfectant wipes for situations where soap and water aren't readily available.
4. Rest When Needed: Listen to your body and rest if you're feeling tired or jet-lagged. While it's tempting to push through and continue exploring, it's important to prioritize rest to prevent burnout and ensure you're able to fully enjoy your travel experiences.
5. Protect Yourself: Take precautions to protect yourself from the sun and insects by wearing sunscreen, insect repellent, and appropriate clothing. Sunburn and insect bites can quickly put a damper on your trip, so be proactive about protecting your skin and health.

After Traveling:

1. Rest and Recover: Allow yourself time to rest and recover from the physical and mental demands of travel. Jet lag and travel fatigue can take a toll on your body, so give yourself permission to relax and recharge before jumping back into your regular routine. I give myself two days to unwind, get unpacked, run errands, and rest. In a perfect world, I would take 4-5 days.
2. Rehydrate: Continue to prioritize hydration after returning from your trip to replenish any fluids lost during travel.
3. Reflect: Take some time to reflect on your travel experiences and savor the memories you've made along the way. Whether it is journaling about your adventures, sharing stories with loved ones, or simply reminiscing about your favorite moments, reflecting on your travels can help you appreciate the journey and all it had to offer.