How to Practice Self Care While Traveling

This guest blog post was curated for Bucky by Kacey Bradley.

If you think about it, travel is a form of self-care. You break free from the daily grind to relax, re-energize and explore new places. And not many people do this — only 28% of Americans planned to use all of their vacation days in 2019. The fact that you take time away bodes well for your mental health. 

Still, you can do more to make your getaway a method of self-care. Here are five tips for traveling in a way that soothes both your mind and body: 

1. Make Mindfulness a Part of Every Morning

You put together a busy schedule when you go on vacation. But even with a full slate of activities, you can slot in a five-minute mindfulness session in the morning. Beginning your day with a clear head can make it easier to overcome obstacles that arise during the day. Any traveler will tell you things don't always go to plan — finding the right headspace can help you roll with the punches. 

Plus, if you have a clear head, you'll enjoy what you see and do even more. A bit of mindfulness can make your trip even more worthwhile. 

2. Relax Upon Arrival

A long day of travel can take its toll on your mind and body. When you land, block out a chunk of time to relax and reset for the rest of your trip. 

You can make this soothing session a vacation splurge. Schedule a massage and hit the table as soon as you land. Or, book a hotel room with a tub and plan for a soak and an evening in. Even a long stretch session when you arrive — and follow-ups every morning — can help you relax. 

3. Dress Comfortably 

You can't feel good mentally if you don't feel good physically. Constrictive or otherwise uncomfortable clothes will only take away from sightseeing or exploring. Be sure to pack a wardrobe that makes you feel good. 

Start with your airport wear. Layer your outfit so you can adjust it with the plane's temperature. As for the rest of your suitcase, choose clothes that suit your body shape and style. Throw your favorite pieces in so you can dress in a way that makes you feel wonderful inside and out.

4. Stay Hydrated 

It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of travel. If you spend all day on your feet, though, you need to keep track of your water intake. Proper hydration makes you feel energized and reduces cravings. Plus, if you drink enough water, it can help you overcome jetlag — the energizing effects are real. 

On that note, avoid drinking alcohol on long-haul flights. Instead, drink water the whole time, even after food service ends. Ask the flight attendants to fill up a water bottle for you so you can keep sipping. That way, you can get your trip off to the right start. 

5. Ditch Your Phone

Your smartphone puts the world at your fingertips. It's a great tool to have when you travel — you can use your device for maps, restaurant recommendations and everything in between. However, you might also find yourself scrolling through social media instead of enjoying the sights around you. 

It's no secret that social media can stress us out. You might think you need to check in and flaunt your getaway, but ditching your phone can make your trip into a bona fide break from real life. So, leave your smartphone behind. Or, turn off the data so you can snap photos for later, but stay off the internet — and in the moment. 

Take Off for Self-Care

Planning your trip is the first step in giving yourself a relaxing, refreshing break. Incorporate these five tips to make your next vacation a practice in self-care — you deserve it. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kacey Bradley is the blogger behind The Drifter Collective, an eclectic lifestyle blog that expresses various forms of style through the influence of culture and the world around us. Kacey graduated with a degree in Communications while working for a lifestyle magazine. She has been able to fully embrace herself with the knowledge of nature, the power of exploring other locations and cultures, all while portraying her love for the world around her through her visually pleasing, culturally embracing and inspiring posts. Along with writing for her blog, she has written for sites like U.S. News, SUCCESS, Ruffled, and more!

Follow Kacey on Twitter and subscribe to her blog to keep up with her travels and inspiring posts!

*Bucky does not endorse any products or practices suggested by guest bloggers. All ideas and opinions are their own and do not reflect the opinions of Bucky.