My Travel Essentials-Welcome to the Holiday Season

Hi everyone! I cannot believe how fast time is flying. I am days away from turning the big 3-0, and I feel like it was yesterday I was running around Towson with my bests celebrating the big 2-1. I always equate the change of seasons from cool to cold as soon as the clock strikes midnight on November 16 (My B-Day). The hubs and I are thoroughly enjoying the cooler weather in Florida these days. It has been so hot and muggy for the past six months that we almost forgot the other half of the year is sheer sunroof open perfection.

 I was actually able wear a sweater on Sunday! Wahoo! No really, I was that excited to throw on a cozy cardigan, sit at a café and sip warm cappuccino as the sun went down. The loss of humidity means the holidays are right around the corner, and many of us will be traveling to see our loved ones near and far. I consider myself a travel expert of sorts these days, as this has been the first three weeks I didn’t have to leave the state in almost a year. That all changes today. Over the course of the next two months I will be on at least ten flights around the good old U.S. of A, not to mention endless Subway rides, and LIRR commutes. I absolutely love my job because it allows me to travel, but after a while I have the tendency to get run down and inevitably develop some sort of chest cold and/or sinus infection. Awesome…I know. Last time, I held out until I was literally on my way back to Florida. I was seated on the plane home surrounded by sniffling men. I didn’t stand a chance, even with a scarf wrapped stealthily around my face. As I am about a week out from my travels back to the Northeast and currently on my way to the midwest for a shoot, I thought I would share with you how I prepare for travel any day of the year, but this time I am focusing on staying as healthy as possible moving into the winter season.

MY IN-FLIGHT ESSENTIALS:

Airborne or Vitamin C: They come in chewable now, so you don’t have to bother with water. Take them before you step foot on the airplane.

 Antibiotic Ointment: My mom texts me every time to make sure I put a layer in my nose to fight against germs. I forgot on my last flight…se la vie.

 Large Scarf or Blanket: Planes are either scorching hot or freezing cold, usually the ladder. So, I would suggest something cozy to keep you warm and shield you from others. Zara and Target have my favorite options for over-sized scarfs.

 Neck Pillow: This is my saving grace on every flight. If I ever forget it, I buy a new one at the airport because I cannot get on a flight without one, especially if you are stuck in the center seat without one of those little headrest things. Also, sleep helps strengthen your immune system, so get some Z’s on the plane if at all possible. I usually pass out against the window with my mouth wide open. It really is not a pretty sight, but thank goodness for that darn pillow.

 Sanitizing wipes and/or Antibacterial Hand Sanitizers: I do not even want to know how often the trays are cleaned, but I simply equate trays to the top blanket at a hotel. Try at all costs not to touch them, but if you have sanitizing wipes simply wipe them down before you eat, drink or place electronic devices on them.

 Headphones: On my last flight Mr. Sniffles to my right got me extremely agitated after five minutes, and I didn’t need to whip out my credit card to purchase headphones. Southwest and JetBlue have free TV, and now that you can leave your phone on airplane mode you can also drift off to your favorite jams. Cory just surprised me with a wireless set which is great because if you know me, I am pretty much a tangled up mess to begin with, and not having to fuss with long a long wire is right up my alley!

 High Protein Snacks: Last but not least, pack snacks that are high in protein to keep you fuller longer. This will help you in two ways. 1- Airplanes today offer very little in terms of food options on flights less than 3 hours. Gone are the days that everyone got his or her little tray of microwaved food to hold them over. Even if your flight does serve food, most likely the meal or snack with be high in sodium, fat and carbohydrates. 2-There are minimal options in airport terminals as well. Being armed with an arsenal of healthy snack foods may help you stride right past the Aunt Annies stand without even a second glance. 

SOME OF THE SNACKS THAT I LOVE ARE:

Lara Bars: In Blueberry and Peanut Butter and Jelly flavors. They are all natural. Made up of whole ingredients including nuts, dates, sea salt and fruit.

Nuts: Unsalted Almonds, walnuts or cashews

Nut Butter: Peanut Butter and Apple Slices From Home

Hummus Sandwich: If I am feeling really crazy and didn’t have time to eat before I leave the house I will make a hummus, red pepper, spinach and feta sandwich on whole wheat or Ezekiel bread. Make sure you toast the bread so it doesn’t get soggy, and add a side of carrots for crunch. You can’t bring water on the plane, but you can bring a sammy!

If I am heading to a job which usually entails wearing a sports bra or spandex of some kind, I find myself wandering the airport for some kind of healthy option. Much to my dismay I am usually left famished or subjected to a small portion of a not so healthy chicken ceaser salad. So, after this happened a couple of times I tried to be as prepared as possible! Of course these are just suggestions, but with a little planning these tips can make your next travel day a smooth, comfortable and satisfying experience.

I hope everyone enjoys the holiday season. We all have so much to be thankful for. Travel well, and I hope these tips help you stay on track during your next travel experience! 

Love and Safe Travels,

Taylor