100 Tips to Stay Comfortable While Traveling

I travel a lot. And I mean…a lot.

I’m also 5’9”. I’m all legs. I’m a light sleeper. And, I get air sick.

So, I can’t simply pop onto an airplane, curl up in a ball, and wake up 12 hours later with a smile on my face.

I have to meticulously plan in advance and pack properly to stay comfortable.

In an effort to over-prepare you for your next flight, I’ve put my thinking cap on and compiled a list of 100 tips to stay comfortable while traveling. You don’t have to do all 100. But hopefully, these will give you some nice ideas.

The ultimate checklist for comfortable traveling (100 ideas)

Packing and Preparation

1. Pack light to avoid lugging around heavy bags. Use a carry-on-sized suitcase and versatile clothing. Consider a minimalist packing list.

2. Wear comfortable clothing suited for travel. Opt for stretchy fabrics and avoid tight clothing. Try Lululemon’s travel-friendly attire.

3. Use packing cubes for organization. Separate your items by category. Consider Eagle Creek’s Pack-It Cubes.

4. Bring a neck pillow for long flights or Uber rides. Support your neck and reduce stiffness. Try the Trtl Pillow.

5. Pack noise-canceling headphones to block out unwanted noise. They help you relax and sleep better. Bose QuietComfort 35 II is a great option.

6. Include a lightweight blanket in your carry-on. Stay warm during flights. Consider the World’s Best Cozy-Soft Microfleece Travel Blanket.

7. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. Avoid buying plastic bottles. The Hydro Flask is durable and insulated.

8. Carry snacks to avoid hunger pangs. Choose healthy, non-perishable options. RXBARs are nutritious and portable. If you want an unhealthy snack, consider bringing Cup-O-Noodles. It’s easy to pack and kinda yummy.

9. Have a travel-sized toiletry kit on hand. Include essentials like toothpaste, shampoo, and lotion. The Narwey Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag is compact and convenient.

10. Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on. Be prepared for any situation. Uniqlo’s compact clothing items are perfect for this.

11. Use compression socks to improve circulation. Reduce swelling and prevent clots. Try Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks.

12. Wear slip-on shoes for easy security checks. Save time and hassle at the airport. Skechers Go Walk shoes are both comfortable and convenient.

13. Carry a small first aid kit with essentials. Include bandages, pain relievers, and antiseptics. The Swiss Safe First Aid Kit is comprehensive and compact.

14. Bring a sleep mask to help you rest. Block out light and improve sleep quality. The Manta Sleep Mask offers complete darkness and comfort.

15. Use luggage with wheels for easy maneuverability. Navigate airports and streets with ease. The Samsonite Winfield 2 is lightweight and durable.

16. Bring a portable charger for your devices. Keep your phone and other electronics powered up. Anker PowerCore 10000 is reliable and compact.

17. Carry essential medications in your carry-on. Ensure you have what you need at all times. Use a travel pill organizer like the Lewis N. Clark AM/PM Folding Pill Organizer.

18. Pack a lightweight rain jacket. Stay dry without adding bulk. The Columbia Arcadia II is waterproof and packable.

19. Include a hat and sunglasses for sun protection. Protect yourself from UV rays. Ray-Ban sunglasses and a Columbia Bora Bora Booney hat are good choices. I also love everything from Quay. Cute and stylish.

20. Bring earplugs for quiet sleep. Block out noise from your surroundings. Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs are effective and comfortable.

During Travel

21. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Dehydration can cause discomfort and fatigue. Use your reusable water bottle frequently.

22. Stretch regularly to avoid stiffness. Simple stretches can keep you comfortable. Stand up and stretch your legs every hour.

23. Move around the cabin during flights. Increase circulation and reduce stiffness. Take short walks when possible. Just make sure to do it when the captain has the seatbelt sign off.

24. Adjust your seat to a comfortable position. Recline slightly and use a neck pillow. Lumbar support cushions can also help. Make sure the person behind you is okay with you reclining, so you’re not being rude.

25. Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they can dehydrate you. Opt for water or herbal tea instead. Stay clear-headed and hydrated. (Good tip, but I don’t do this).

26. Choose an aisle seat for more legroom. Stretch out and move freely. Check-in early to select your seat.

27. Use a lumbar support pillow. Support your lower back to reduce pain. The LoveHome Memory Foam Lumbar Support is a good choice.

28. Dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures. Remove or add layers as needed. A lightweight cardigan or jacket works well.

29. Eat light meals to avoid discomfort. Heavy foods can cause indigestion. Choose salads, fruits, and lean proteins.

30. Chew gum during takeoff and landing. Relieve ear pressure and discomfort. Sugar-free gum is a healthier option. Choose a few different flavors of gum to keep it interesting.

31. Practice deep breathing to stay calm. Reduce anxiety and stress. Inhale deeply through your nose and exhale through your mouth.

32. Bring hand sanitizer for cleanliness. Use it frequently, especially before eating. Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer is effective.

33. Avoid heavy perfumes which can cause headaches. Choose subtle scents or none at all. Essential oil roll-ons are a good alternative.

34. Wear blue-light blocking glasses for screen time. Reduce eye strain from devices. The Gamma Ray Blue Light Blocking Glasses are affordable and effective.

35. Listen to relaxing music. Calm your mind and reduce stress. Create a travel playlist in advance. For the love, wear your headphones.

36. Use a footrest if possible. Elevate your feet to improve circulation. The Everlasting Comfort Foot Rest is portable and adjustable.

37. Carry an eye mask to block out light. Help your body adjust to time changes. The Manta Sleep Mask is a top pick. It’s my favorite. I use it everywhere I go and at home.

38. Keep your back straight while sitting. Maintain good posture to avoid pain. Adjust your seat and use lumbar support.

39. Bring a lightweight scarf or shawl for warmth. Use it as a blanket or pillow. The Mer-Sea Travel Wrap is versatile and stylish.

40. Use wet wipes to freshen up. Clean your hands and face easily. The Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes are handy and effective.

At the Destination

41. Take a hot shower to relax your muscles. Ease tension and feel refreshed. Most hotels offer complimentary toiletries.

42. Rest as soon as you arrive to adjust to time zones. Take a short nap if needed. Avoid long naps to prevent disrupting your sleep schedule.

43. Wear comfortable shoes for walking. Explore your destination without pain. The Skechers Go Walk shoes provide great support.

44. Book accommodation with good reviews for comfort. Read feedback on cleanliness and service. Sites like TripAdvisor can help you choose.

45. Choose a room away from elevators to avoid noise. Request a quiet room when booking. Higher floors tend to be quieter.

46. Use a white noise machine to sleep better. Block out disruptive sounds. The LectroFan White Noise Machine offers various sound options.

47. Unpack immediately to feel settled. Arrange your items for easy access. Hang clothes to prevent wrinkles.

48. Bring a favorite pillowcase. Enjoy the familiarity of home. A silk pillowcase can also be gentle on your skin.

49. Stay in accommodations with a kitchenette for food flexibility. Prepare your own meals to save money and eat healthily. Look for extended-stay hotels or vacation rentals.

50. Use hotel amenities like the gym or spa. Stay active and pamper yourself. Many hotels offer free access to these facilities.

51. Keep your room temperature comfortable. Adjust the thermostat to your liking. Use the hotel’s extra blankets or fans if needed.

52. Request extra pillows for better sleep. Make your bed as comfortable as possible. Most hotels will accommodate this request.

53. Take breaks between sightseeing. Avoid exhaustion by resting periodically. Find a café or park to relax in.

54. Hydrate with local drinks. Try traditional beverages and stay hydrated. Coconut water and herbal teas are often good choices.

55. Try local comfort foods. Experience new flavors and satisfy your hunger. Research popular dishes before you go.

56. Practice yoga or meditation. Maintain your routine to stay grounded. Many apps offer guided sessions.

57. Explore at a leisurely pace. Avoid rushing through your itinerary. Take time to enjoy each experience.

58. Use public transport for a relaxed commute. Avoid driving in unfamiliar areas. Check local schedules and routes in advance.

59. Take guided tours to minimize planning stress. Let someone else handle the details. Many tours offer insights you might miss on your own.

60. Have a flexible itinerary. Allow for spontaneous adventures. Adjust plans based on how you feel.

Health and Wellness

61. Stay active by doing light exercises. Stretch, walk, or do simple workouts. Apps like 7 Minute Workout can help.

62. Eat balanced meals. Include fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Avoid too much sugar and processed foods.

63. Keep healthy snacks handy. Nuts, dried fruits, and protein bars are good options. Kind Bars are tasty and nutritious.

64. Stay in touch with loved ones. Share your experiences and feel connected. Use video calls or messaging apps. Make sure a loved one knows where you are at all times. This is also a safety issue.

65. Take vitamins to boost immunity. A daily multivitamin can help. Consult your doctor for recommendations.

66. Get enough sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours per night. Use sleep aids like melatonin if needed.

67. Avoid heavy meals before bedtime. Eat lighter dinners to sleep better. Choose salads, soups, or grilled vegetables.

68. Use sunscreen. Protect your skin from UV rays. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer is lightweight and effective.

69. Stay positive and manage stress. Focus on the positive aspects of your trip. Practice mindfulness or gratitude exercises.

70. Read a book or engage in a hobby. Relax and unwind during downtime. E-books are easy to carry and access.

71. Practice gratitude. Reflect on what you’re thankful for. Keep a gratitude journal.

72. Stay informed about your destination. Know local customs and safety tips. Research before you travel.

73. Limit screen time before sleep. Avoid blue light to sleep better. Use blue-light blocking glasses if needed.

74. Use aromatherapy oils for relaxation. Lavender and chamomile are soothing. Try essential oil roll-ons. Look for a local apothecary or tincture maker over big MLM brands.

75. Have a travel journal. Document your experiences and thoughts. Moleskine journals are durable and portable.

76. Engage in local activities. Immerse yourself in the culture. Participate in festivals, workshops, or tours.

77. Plan for leisure time. Balance work and relaxation. Schedule downtime in your itinerary.

78. Avoid over-scheduling. Keep your plans flexible. Allow time for spontaneous adventures.

79. Take short naps if needed. Refresh yourself without disrupting your sleep schedule. Limit naps to 20-30 minutes.

80. Enjoy nature whenever possible. Visit parks, gardens, or beaches. Spending time outside can improve your mood and energy.

Travel Hacks

81. Book direct flights to avoid layovers. Save time and reduce travel fatigue. Use flight comparison sites like Skyscanner.

82. Travel during off-peak times. Avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices. Mid-week flights are often cheaper and less busy.

83. Join travel loyalty programs. Earn points and benefits for frequent travel. Programs like Marriott Bonvoy offer perks like free Wi-Fi and late check-out.

84. Use travel apps for convenience. Manage bookings, navigate, and find local attractions. Apps like TripIt and Google Maps are essential.

85. Check-in online. Save time at the airport. Most airlines offer online check-in 24-48 hours before departure.

86. Pre-book activities. Secure spots and avoid long lines. Websites like Viator and GetYourGuide offer advance booking for tours and activities.

87. Use a travel agent for hassle-free planning. Get expert advice and support. They can find deals and handle complex itineraries.

88. Rent a car for more flexibility. Explore at your own pace. Use rental comparison sites like Rentalcars.com.

89. Choose flexible travel dates. Find the best deals by being adaptable. Sites like Kayak offer fare alerts for flexible dates.

90. Keep a digital copy of your documents. Backup important information. Store them securely on cloud services like Google Drive.

91. Have a backup plan. Prepare for unexpected changes. Know alternative routes and accommodations.

92. Use a travel wallet. Organize your documents and money. The Zoppen Multi-purpose Travel Wallet is functional and stylish.

93. Bring a foldable bag for extra purchases. Pack souvenirs without extra luggage. The Paravel Fold-Up Bag is lightweight and compact.

94. Learn basic phrases in the local language. Enhance your travel experience. Apps like Duolingo can help you learn quickly.

95. Research cultural norms. Respect local customs and traditions. Guidebooks and travel blogs are good resources.

96. Plan for rest days. Avoid burnout by taking breaks. Schedule days with minimal activities.

97. Keep a list of emergency contacts. Be prepared for any situation. Include local emergency numbers and your country’s embassy contact.

98. Bring an international driver's license if needed. Drive legally in foreign countries. Apply through AAA or other authorized organizations.

99. Download maps offline. Navigate without internet access. Google Maps allows you to save areas for offline use.

100. Enjoy the journey and stay adaptable. Embrace the unexpected. Flexibility can lead to the best experiences.

These detailed tips, along with the product recommendations, should help you stay comfortable on your trip. Connect with me if you need further assistance!