If you were a frequent flyer pre-pandemic, you probably mastered the knack of packing your suitcase like a pro, eating healthily when on-the-go, and getting some eye-shut on the plane. But, as opportunities for flying fell away for a while, you may feel a bit rusty when it comes to travel.
Happily, we’re hearing boarding calls more frequently. In fact, Oz Desai, GM of Corporate Traveller, reports that March was the company’s busiest month in two years, with booking almost reaching pre-pandemic levels. If you’re amongst those who have taken up travel once more, it might be time for a refresher course on how to stay happy and healthy while travelling.
Be flexible…
Even the most seasoned travellers may find that travelling feels quite different in our post-pandemic world with certain perks still off limits.
“In the United States, for example, many of the airport lounges are still closed or operating at reduced hours. Masks are still required indoors and on public transport, and people will ask to see your vaccination card wherever you go – even if you’re just popping into your hotel restaurant for a coffee,” says Desai.
The good news, though, is that certain regulations have been relaxed, and many countries no longer require a PCR test before entry. It’s also unlikely that you’ll be stranded in a country thanks to the sudden imposition of a harsh lockdown. “This removes a lot of the anxiety around international travel,” Oz points out.
Get some shut-eye
Most airlines still require passengers to wear a face covering during the journey. Desai suggests opting for a light buff rather than a mask, which is easier to breathe through, especially when you’re trying to sleep.
Of course, sleep (or the lack of it) is a major concern for those flying internationally. Desai’s tip is to purchase a good quality neck pillow. You may also find that it helps to wear bed socks, which are very effective when it comes to keeping you warm – important, because body temperature plays a big role in getting quality sleep.
Dress for success
Dress in layers so that the air conditioning in the cabin doesn’t bother you, but it’s still easy to remove an item or two if you start feeling too warm. Put on some noise-cancelling headphones, switch off your devices, and strap on the eye mask in your travel pack – these simple actions will help to calm your buzzing brain and soothe sensory overload from the noise in the cabin.
Go slow on the caffeine
It’s also a good idea to avoid caffeine. In fact, Oz says that he prefers to stick to water when travelling, especially since it’s easy to become dehydrated when you’re in the air, leaving you with headaches and fatigue. Dehydration can even cause fuzzy thinking and lower your immune system – hardly ideal if you’re about to walk into a meeting. Dehydration comes about because of the low humidity and air pressure in the cabin, but you can stave off the worst effects but saying no to alcohol, upping your water intake, and choosing electrolyte drinks like coconut water or sports drinks.
Light and easy….
Keep your hand luggage light and easy to carry, but make sure it contains a spare change of clothes and all your vitamins, medication and charges for your electronics – you never know when you’ll need them.
Keep active
While you may feel tempted to spend any free time catching up on sleep, Desai says you’ll actually find it more energizing to exercise. In fact, a workout can help to reset your body’s rhythms, making it easier to fight jet lag. Don’t rely entirely on a sweat session, though – “organize your schedule so that you have room to acclimatise to time zones,” Desai advises.
Do you need more ideas and tips on how to stay healthy? Your CT Travel Expert is just a phone call, text or mail away. And if you’re a techie, our mobile app Sam will keep you happy and healthy.
