My Travel Essentials
Some of you know that I travel a lot for work. I also enjoy traveling for fun, when I can find the time. I’ve become a pretty awesome packer, if I do say so myself. I’m not bragging, it’s true! There are certain items that I have to take with me when I travel. Below is a list of the items I’ve been taking lately that help me stay on track while I’m away.
Nuun Hydration tablets (or powder) –
It’s easy to become dehydrated when flying or traveling in general. I always pack Nuun Hydration tablets or powder with me to make sure I’m getting enough electrolytes. I drink water 99.99% of the time, so this also adds a little flavor when you get tired of plain old water. I saw something on Nuun’s Instagram about how an old tablet tube is perfect for putting the powder version in, so I’ve done that too! I pop one of these or some powder into my water bottle (I always take a reusable bottle when I travel, but I always take a reusable water bottle with me EVERYWHERE I go, even at home).
Protein bars –
I don’t like to eat a ton of protein bars, but sometimes they are required when you’re traveling. I always have a Nugo bar with me. I’ve been eating Nugo bars since I was in college, which was longer ago than I’d care to admit. They have some great vegan options as well. They are my go-to, and if you read my protein bar post, you know they are one of my favorites. If I don’t have Nugo bars, I’ll take another brand from my list!
Nut & Fruit Mix –
I always mix cashews with almonds, peanuts, or another type of nut. I’ll usually add in some unsweetened coconut strips and either cranberries or whatever other dried fruit I have. It’s easy to put in my reusable ziplock bag that I talked about in my April Favorites post. It’s a nice snack to have on hand that is easy to eat without making a lot of fuss. Sometimes opening a protein bar makes a lot of noise when you’re in a meeting!
Lacrosse Ball –
I have a lot of problems with my dorsal scapular nerve, and I’ve found that a lacrosse ball really helps release the tension in my shoulders and neck. You can use it all over to help your muscles and trigger points, and it fits in a bag a lot easier than a foam roller! I bought mine at Dick’s Sporting Goods for a couple dollars.
Resistance Bands –
I always check my hotel before I leave to see what they have in their fitness center. If I know that they don’t have weights I will take my resistance bands. They are easy to travel with and even easier to use. I got these off of Amazon as a Christmas present last year. These are pretty cheap and have held up pretty well. They come in a nice carry bag, and they even have handles, and ankle straps.
Tea –
I always take a “calm” or “sleepy time” tea with me because I often have problems sleeping in hotels. I don’t think the tea actually does anything, but sipping on tea at the end of the day does have a calming effect.
Lume Deodorant –
If you read my Testing Natural Deodorant post then you know that I’m loving my Lume deodorant. Naturally I can’t travel without it!
Vitamins –
I take my Take Care of vitamins with me every time I travel. They are super convenient because they are packed in individual packets. I pack what I need for my trip in my toiletry bag and then I throw a packet in my purse each morning. Plus each packet has an inspirational phrase or quote to make you think.
Strawberry Bag –
My brother and sister-in-law had a destination wedding, and they gave these bags filled with some goodies to every guest that came. This means that I’ve had this bag for about 8 years! I can’t tell you how many places I’ve taken this bag and how many times I’ve used it. I always keep it in my purse. I’ve seriously used this in five different countries (grocery stores in other countries don’t provide grocery bags) and so many states across the USA. It’s so small, which makes it easy to pack, and it comes in so handy anytime you purchase something! These may not be the exact same thing, but if they aren’t they sure look very similar.
Eating While Traveling
I like to start out with a high protein breakfast when I can. Most hotels usually at least have hard-boiled eggs, and you can add that to toast with some salsa and make a breakfast sandwich. If there is Greek yogurt that doesn’t have a ton of sugar I will also eat that. For lunch I try to stay somewhat healthy, but you might be limited to options. I try to eat a log of vegetables and protein for both lunch and dinner. I just choose the healthiest options I find and that I want. I also like to give myself one “treat” on every trip. I do this so that I don’t feel super restricted, but I also only get ONE. So if I really want that cookie, I can have that cookie. However, by only allowing myself one thing, I really want to make it count. Usually I’ll wait until I find something that I really want. Sometimes I don’t have a treat at all, but leaving myself that option works for me.
Does anyone else travel a lot and have essentials that they have to take with them when they go? For the most part these are mine, but I do switch them out every now and then. When I went to Europe I didn’t take resistance bands, because I had no intention of working out. I took a lot of walks, but no strength training. It’s also incredibly important to take time to rest and enjoy your travels, so make sure you remember to stop and smell the roses every now and then!
Happy Traveling!
-S