Tips to Make Holiday Travel Easier on Your Body

While holidays themselves are occasions to relax, eat, and enjoy time with family and friends, no one looks forward to holiday travel. This post will provide tips on making holiday travel as comfortable as possible, whether driving or flying to your destination.

Driving

Optimize Seating for Support

  • Adjust your car seat for good lumbar support.
  • Use a small pillow or cushion if needed.

Take Regular Breaks

  • Stop every hour or so to stretch and walk around.
  • Perform stretches for your neck, shoulders, and back.

Practice Good Posture

  • Sit with your back against the seat and feet flat on the floor.
  • Adjust the steering wheel and mirrors for optimal posture.

Related Post: Practicing Good Posture – Tips for a Healthier Life

Stay Hydrated

  • Bring a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated.
  • Limit caffeinated beverages to avoid dehydration.

Comfort Accessories

  • If you are a passenger, consider bringing a supportive neck pillow for comfort.
  • You may also want to utilize a lumbar cushion for additional support.

Warm-Up Before Getting on the Road

  • Engage in light exercises or stretches before starting your journey.
  • Warm-up activities can prepare your muscles for driving or sitting as a passenger.

Learn More: Exercises and Stretches for a Healthy Back

Practice Stress Reduction Techniques

  • Consider listening to calming music like classical music or audiobooks while driving if your family allows it.
  • Take deep breaths to manage stress on the road.
happy family driving in car
woman holding bottle of water in her car
airplane taking off
two male airplane passengers speaking with flight attendant

Air Travel

Supportive Seating

  • Whenever possible, select seats with good lumbar support.
  • Consider bringing a small travel pillow or lumbar roll for additional support.

Take Regular Breaks

  • Stand up, stretch, and walk around during layovers.
  • Perform in-seat stretches to alleviate tension.

Mind Your Posture

  • Sit with your back against the seat and feet flat on the floor.
  • Avoid slouching and use good posture when walking through the plane.

Stay Hydrated

  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  • Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption.

Warm-Up Before Travel

  • Engage in light exercises or stretches before boarding.
  • Warm-up activities can prepare your muscles for the flight.

Create a Comfortable Sleeping Environment for Long Flights

  • Use pillows and blankets for a comfortable sleeping arrangement.
  • Consider noise-canceling headphones to enhance rest.

Related Post: How to Get Better Sleep with Chiropractic Care

Pack Snacks and Healthy Meals

  • Bring nutritious snacks to maintain energy levels.
  • Choose healthier food options at the airport.

Practice Stress Reduction Techniques

  • Incorporate relaxation techniques during the flight.
  • Listen to calming music or podcasts.
 
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