We’re off on a little adventure, so I thought this was a perfect post topic for today: weird things I bring on vacation.
Hello friends! How are you; Hope you are enjoying the day so far! We live it in Hawaii 🙂 It was a good time for this post topic.
When it comes to holiday packages, we all have the essentials: clothes, toiletries and maybe a good book. But if you’re like me, your suitcase is also filled with some unconventional items that make your trip not just enjoyable, but downright awesome. Today, I’m sharing the weird things I bring on vacation that make me feel better no matter where I am. 😉
Weird things I bring on vacation
EquiLife Daily Nutritional Support
Traveling can throw off your usual diet, so I always pack my own EquiLife Daily Nutritional Support. This all-in-one powder ensures that I get the vitamins and minerals I need, even when my meals are less nutrient dense than usual. It is a complete blend of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and digestive enzymes. A quick shake in the morning and I’m ready for the day. I have this on every day and it makes me feel amazing so there’s no way I’m traveling without it.
EquiLife Daily Nutritional Support it’s especially handy when you’re dealing with irregular meal plans or limited healthy options. It helps me maintain my energy levels and keeps my immune system strong.
Supplements
Speaking of nutrition, I don’t leave home without my daily supplements. From magnesium to omega-3s, vitamin C, and herbal supplements, I have a little pill organizer that travels everywhere with me. Magnesium helps relax and repair muscles, especially after long days of sightseeing. Omega-3s support brain health and reduce inflammation, while vitamin C boosts the immune system, keeping me resilient to the stress associated with travel and exposure to new environments.
Herbal supplements tailored to my needs add an extra layer of support, but it’s important to note that what works for me may not work for everyone. This is where functional testing comes into play. By understanding my body’s unique requirements through testing, I ensure I am taking the right supplements. These tests can identify deficiencies and help tailor a supplement regimen to your specific needs, ensuring you’re not just guessing but effectively optimizing your health.
Brazilian peanuts
These may seem like a random snack, but Brazil nuts are my secret weapon for maintaining selenium levels. Just one to two a day meets my needs for selenium, which is great for thyroid health. Selenium is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage, supports the immune system, and plays a role in maintaining cognitive function. Plus, it’s a delicious, easy snack to have on hand.
Brazil nuts are also rich in healthy fats, protein and fiber, making them a great choice to keep hunger at bay between meals. They are convenient and require no preparation, which is perfect for travel. Whether I’m hiking, exploring a new city, or just relaxing on the beach, eating two Brazil nuts each day helps keep my nutrient intake balanced and my energy levels steady.
Melatonin and Magnesium
Sleep is vital, especially when crossing time zones. I bring melatonin to help me sleep and magnesium for muscle relaxation and recovery. Melatonin is a natural hormone that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle, facilitating adaptation to new time zones and improving sleep quality. Taking melatonin about 30 minutes before bed helps me calm down and fall asleep more easily, even in an unfamiliar environment. This is the one I use. (You can use FITNESSISTA10 for 10% off EquiLife products.)
Magnesium, on the other hand, it is known for its calming effects on the nervous system and its role in muscle relaxation. It can help reduce stress and promote a sense of calm, which is especially helpful when dealing with travel stress. Together, melatonin and magnesium ensure quality rest, no matter how unfamiliar the bed. This combination is a lifesaver in keeping my energy and spirits up throughout my journey. i use one magnesium by mouth and a topical spray. (Friendly reminder to always check with a doctor before adding new supplements to your routine.)
Snack bags for everyone
Airports, long car rides and sightseeing can make finding healthy snacks difficult. I pack snack bags for everyone in the family, filled with things like trail mix, bars, pasta, dried fruit, almond butter packets, and some sweet bites. That way, we know we each have something on hand that we like, as airport food can be expensive and unpredictable. Having a variety of snacks available also means we are prepared for any unexpected delays or long waits, ensuring that no one goes hungry.
Preparing these snack bags ahead of time is a little effort that pays off big. It’s also a great way to control portions and ensure we’re all eating nutritious foods instead of reaching for junk food. My kids love having their own snack bags and it makes traveling with them so much easier. Plus, it’s a fun way to introduce them to new healthy foods they might not try otherwise. They still have airport or lounge food, but having a snack bag in everyone’s backpack is vital.
Compression socks
These are essential for long flights. I usually wear them for flights of more than five hours. These are the best! Compression stockings help improve circulation and prevent swelling, make me more comfortable, and can reduce the risk of blood clots. They work by applying gentle pressure to the legs, which helps blood flow back to the heart more efficiently. This is especially important during long periods of sitting, such as on flights or long journeys.
I found what I’m wearing compression socks it makes a noticeable difference in how my feet feel after a long trip. They reduce fatigue and prevent the heavy, aching pain that often comes with travel. Plus, they come in cute designs now so I don’t feel like I’m wearing medical gear. It’s a small addition to my travel wardrobe that provides significant health benefits and makes me feel better.
My own soap and laundry containers
There’s something comforting about having your own soap, especially if you have sensitive skin. I bring a small bottle of my favorite soap to avoid possible skin reactions to unfamiliar hotel products and also rough soap ingredients. It’s a little home touch that makes any place feel cozier. I also pack laundry containers so I can do laundry on the go if we’re going on a long trip (7+ days). Coming home to clean clothes is one less chore to worry about after the holidays.
Having laundry containers means I can pack lighter and do a quick load of laundry mid-trip if needed. It’s especially useful for longer trips or when traveling with kids, who seem to go through clothes at an alarming rate.
Eye care products
Eye drops, eyelid wipes, warm compresses and extra contacts are non-negotiables for me. Dry eyes and missed contacts can ruin a day of sightseeing, so I make sure I’m fully stocked. Travel can be hard on the eyes due to dry airplane air, varying climates, and extended periods of screen time for navigation or entertainment. Having eye care essentials ensures that my eyes stay comfortable and healthy.
(I also just have to take a moment of silence here. When we went to Italy and Greece last year, I was really worried about my eyes and it was a huge distraction. Now that I’m healed and have a routine in place, I’ve been able to enjoy 10 days in Seville without worrying about my eyes at all I just kept up my routine as a bit of hope for my fellow dry eye sufferers.
Blanket weighted
This may seem a little extra, but I bring a travel-sized weighted blanket. It helps me sleep better and is worth the extra weight in my suitcase or carrying it in my bag. Weighted blankets are known for their therapeutic benefits, such as promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality. Gentle pressure mimics cuddling, which can help reduce stress and improve overall sleep.
The travel size version is perfect to fit in my suitcase and provides the same benefits as the full size I use at home. It’s great for chilly hotel rooms, especially when so many use such thin blankets now. I like heavy blankets, like a big fluffy comforter. Bringing my weighted blanket ensures that I can relax and get a good night’s sleep, which is vital to keeping my energy up and enjoying my trip to the fullest.
J Pillow
Last but not least, my confidant J pillow. This travel pillow is a game changer for sleeping on planes and cars. It supports my neck and chin, preventing that dreaded head bang and ensuring I wake up without neck pain. Traditional travel pillows often don’t provide enough support, but the unique shape of the J pillow keeps my head and neck aligned.
Whether I’m on a long-haul flight or a short road trip, the J pillow it helps me get quality rest. It is lightweight and easy to pack, making it the perfect travel companion. A good night’s sleep makes all the difference in the world and I’m so glad I found an airplane pillow that works for me!
Do you have any unconventional items you bring on vacation? Share your must-haves in the comments below!
ho ho
Gina
