All posts by Katie Tejada

Katie Tejada is a writer, editor, and travel enthusiast. With a love for adventure and the great outdoors, she enjoys writing about various places, events and destinations, but also covers other topics as well, including real estate, finance, and law, among others.
North America, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

5 Best Tourist Attractions in Missoula, Montana

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5 Best Tourist Attractions in Missoula, Montana

The great city of Missoula sits near the edge of the western border of Montana and is approximately 45 miles from Utah. It’s the second-largest city in the state and sits along the Clark Fork River. It’s called the “Hub Of Five Valleys” due to its proximity to the Garnet Range, Rattlesnake Mountains, Sapphire Range, Bitterroot Mountains, and the Reservation Divide. Car rentals are popular, and with all of the scenic beauty surrounding Missoula, it has become one of the hottest destination spots for outdoor enthusiasts in Montana. Here are a few attractions you don’t want to miss when vacationing in Missoula. 

1 – Glacier National Park

Missoula

Image URL: https://pixabay.com/photos/lake-mcdonald-glacier-national-park-1874263/

Glacier National Park is one of the most scenic natural wonders you can visit in the United States. The park is full of pristine lakes and colorful wildflowers that are a sight to see. With over 700 miles of hiking trails, it’s perfect for seasoned hikers and first-time tourists. Hikers can enjoy expansive views of the mountains and grassy mountain slopes and even see bighorn sheep and mountain goats grazing in the valley. 

If you’d like to see everything that Glacier National Park offers, take a drive on the Going To The Sun Road. You can drive from one end of the park to the other on this road in about two hours. It’s the perfect way to soak in the natural beauty of Glacier National Park. While driving along the road, you’ll see everything from pastoral valleys to distant glacial lakes and wildlife. One of the most popular attractions on the drive is Logan Pass which is 6,000 feet in elevation and features a breathtaking view. It’s one of the highest points you can travel to by car and is the entry point to the Hidden Lake and Highline Trail hiking trails. 

2 – Canyon River Golf Club

Missoula

Image URL: https://pixabay.com/photos/golf-golf-course-5490886/

Canyon River Golf Club is a premier destination for professional and amateur golfers of all skill levels and ages. In 2010, 2015, and 2020, the Pacific Northwest PGA Championships took place at this prestigious club and attracted professional golfers from all over the globe. This well-maintained championship-level course features deep greenside bunkers, multi-tiered greens, tall grasses, pine trees, and tons of sandtraps. It’s a challenging course that’s fun to play and sure to please. 

After enjoying a round of golf, you can relax in The Fox Den to indulge in a wide variety of food and beverages or visit one of the local breweries just a stone’s throw away from Canyon River Golf Club. The Bayern Brewing Company, Conflux Brewing Company, and the Tamarack Brewing Company are all within a 15-minute drive from the club. If you’re a fan of golf and love finishing off the day with a cold one, this is a no-brainer. 

3 – Lolo National Forest 

Image URL: https://pixabay.com/photos/caravan-camping-rv-campsite-camper-1468411/

The Lolo National Forest is home to the northern portion of the Sapphire Mountains. Within its two million acres of forest, you will see elk, moose, mountain goats, black bears, grizzly bears, timber wolves, bighorn sheep, mule deer, and many other types of wildlife. Bald-head eagles, golden eagles, and trumpeter swans reside here, and there are close to 30 different species of ducks. In total, Lolo National Forest has 300 species of birds, 20 different types of fish, and over 60 mammals inside its borders. 

If camping is something you enjoy, Lolo National Forest is home to the Seeley Lake Campground. At Seeley Lake, patrons can rent boats, canoes, and mountain bikes to explore the surrounding lakes and trails. It’s the perfect location for boating, swimming, water skiing, fishing, and bird watching. This campground has modern facilities with restrooms that are handicap accessible and drinking water. At $20 per night, this campsite is very popular with people who enjoy RV camping and tent camping. Each camping site comes with a fire ring and picnic table, and you can park your vehicle right next to your site. 

4 – Montana Snow Bowl

Image URL: https://pixabay.com/photos/skiing-girl-sun-snow-winter-ski-1723857/

For close to 60 years, the Montana Snow Bowl has attracted downhill and alpine skiers from all over the country. With its steep runs and vertical heights, skiers can expect one of the most exhilarating experiences in the Pacific Northwest. Located in the Lolo National Forest, the Montana Snow Bowl offers ski packages and lodging at the C’Mon Inn and Gelandesprung Lodge. 

At the C’Mon Inn, guests can enjoy hot tubs, swimming pools for the adults and kids, and a waterfall inside the tropical courtyard. These luxurious accommodations include suites with private jacuzzis, gas fireplaces, and complimentary breakfast. The Inn also features a game room, business center, fitness center, and free internet & WiFi. 

For a truly unique experience, you can book at the Gelandesprung Lodge. It has a European-style lodge that sits right at the bottom of the slope and features ski in and ski out capabilities. Shared and private baths are available, hot tubs, and kitchen facilities. If you’re frugal and looking to save some money, the discount lift tickets will make this a very affordable place to stay.

5 – Garnet Ghost Town

Image URL: https://pixabay.com/photos/garnet-ghost-town-montana-abandoned-3943047/

The town of Garnet has existed for more than two hundred years. Back in the 1800s, this was a place that miners migrated to with the dream of making life-changing profits by mining gold and other precious minerals. As the influx of miners increased, it became apparent that the free-floating goal did not exist in the amounts miners expected. Garnet’s infrastructure could not sustain that overwhelming growth and suffered the consequences. 

With the passing of the Sherman Silver Purchase Act in 1890, miners abandoned Garnet in mass for the more profitable mineral, silver. The government needed silver to mint coins and believed the act would boost the economy. But in 1893, that plan didn’t work out, and the price of silver dropped. As a result, there was a run on the United States gold reserve, and President Grover Cleveland repealed the act. 

The crash in silver drove miners back to Garnet to search for gold. When Garnet was booming, it had 13 saloons and 20 mines and was the epitome of the wild, wild west. But in 1912, the town was devastated by fire, and by 1940 Garnet was abandoned and became a ghost town. Garnet is a must-see if you’re a history buff or enjoy visiting once-in-a-lifetime attractions. 

The attractions listed in this article are just a few of the many gems that Missoula can offer to outdoor enthusiasts and lovers of history and culture. You can surf or kayak at the Clark Fork River, visit local breweries and vineyards, enjoy cultural icons such as the Wilma Theatre, the Missoula Art Museum, the Montana Natural History Center, or even take in a world-class symphony. Here in Missoula, you can discover a world you’ve never seen at an affordable price. 



Travel Tips

Exciting Activities You Can Try in Las Vegas

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Las Vegas famous landmarks

It’s time for your Las Vegas vacation! Wave a temporary goodbye to your 9-to-5 and hello to some much needed downtime. A little R&R is a great way to spend your hard-earned vacation time, but when the adventurer within calls, be sure to answer! Vegas is home to all things wild and weird. Affectionately known as the ultimate adult playground, this city is vibrant, buzzing with excitement, and jam-packed with fun things to do. 

Las Vegas is the ultimate tourist destination. Experience world class entertainment, Michelin Star fine dining, incredible nightly performances, unparalleled nightlife, and a plethora of unique attractions you won’t find anywhere else – including 4 of the 20 most expensive buildings in the world.

Unique Experiences 

Las Vegas is world renowned for its party scene, luxury casinos, and first rate shopping. Sin City is also home to a host of “off the beaten path” attractions. There are a ton of hidden gems inside the city limits that will excite you and get your adrenaline pumping.

Unleash your inner adventure seeker with a visit to The Gun Store. This world-famous newly remodeled, indoor shooting range offers multiple air conditioned lanes, more than 60 different firearms to choose from Safety is The Gun Store’s top priority at all times. They will even pick you up and drop you off with their shuttle service. Enjoy the ultimate adrenaline rush, safely, with this badass experience. Book online and get $10 off your package.

Speaking of shuttle service, it’s available for food, too! Don’t think that delivery is limited to pizza. Excite your taste buds with fantastic fare that you can wrap your mouth around via delivery from culinary experts at The Chefery.

Roll the Dice
Las Vegas casinos are a paradise for gamblers, shopping enthusiasts, foodies, and relaxation lovers alike. Each casino is a destination in itself — whether it’s the unique architecture of The Venetian, or the famous Bellagio fountains, you’ll never run out of things to see and do.

Las Vegas casinos

Vegas is synonymous with gambling, you can’t think of one without the other. There are over 100 casinos to explore, each with its own theme. Try your luck at thousands of slot machines and card tables. You’ll hit the jackpot (at least with your Vegas experience) with unlimited opportunities to win big. 

Not a big spender? There are a few ways to save some serious cash to do Vegas on the cheap.

Lap of Luxury

Luxury treatments

When you need a break from the excitement of the casino floor, check into one of Vegas’s luxury spas. Most casinos offer high-end, lavish spa services at state of the art facilities. Enjoy rejuvenating treatments from facials, to massages, to holistic healing therapies. Relax poolside with a drink in hand. You’ll leave looking more youthful and feeling completely zen. 

Supersized Shopping 

Las Vegas shopping

Vegas is a shopaholic’s dream come true, it’s home to many designer stores, bargain outlets, and souvenir shops. Splurge or window shop at The Shops at Crystals, a collection of high-end stores like Gucci, Tom Ford, and Fendi. Vegas’s Fashion Show is the perfect combination of luxury and accessible stores. It has big names like Saks 5th Avenue and trendy stores like Forever 21. There is something for everyone and every budget.

Unmatched Nightlife

The nightlife scene in Las Vegas is the stuff of legends, step foot inside any Vegas club or bar and you’ll understand why. Vegas nightclubs are a long standing, fan favorite, featuring bottle service, the hottest DJ’s, celebrity hosts, and of course dancing the night away. The venues are elaborately designed to feel like the party will never end! 

Las Vegas nightlife

If dance clubs aren’t your thing, there are also plenty of other places to grab a drink. Las Vegas bars and lounges offer a different, yet equally as fun atmosphere. Enjoy hand-crafted cocktails at down-to-earth spots that the locals love, sing along at a piano bar, or find an exclusive speakeasy!

Travel Planning, Travel Tips

What Are Some Unique Activities to Try on Vacation?

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What Are Some Unique Activities to Try on Vacation?

You will soon be saying sayonara to your 9-to-5 and hello to beaches and downtime—for days on end. But although you look forward to some R&R, your inner adventurer is also looking to experience some thrills and frills (and even chills).

The good news? It’s more than possible to find activities that will excite you, stimulate you, and even shock you as you navigate a foreign land or another city in the United States.

Here’s a rundown on the top unique activities to indulge in on your upcoming vacation if you’re serious about creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Sea Turtle Swimming

Headed to Cancun, Mexico? Consider taking time to go swimming with the gorgeous sea turtles there. In addition to swimming with the turtles, you may have the opportunity to go scuba diving, kayaking, or snorkeling with them as well. 
This surreal experience will allow you to get up close and personal with nature’s gentle giants (they can get as big as six feet long and 2,000 pounds). So, it can be both exciting and educational for any turtle lover.

Gel Ball

If you love playing paintball, it’s time to sign up for an experience that will blow paintball out of the water—gel style. The activity is called gel ball, and you can find it in Australia. 

With this activity, you’ll shoot at other people with water-filled balls instead of paintballs—or air pellets that have been compressed. You and your group will be divided into a couple of teams of 6-12 people, and every player will get five balls and plenty of water canisters. Whichever team gets 50 points (from 50 successful shots) first wins.

Whale Watching

Ready to get your heart racing—in a good way—and feel alive again? Book a Dana Point Whale Watching safari the next time you make your way to Southern California. This unique vacation activity will breathe new life into you by giving you an adrenaline rush each time you see the magical 100-foot-long creatures leap out of the water.

In addition to seeing whales, be prepared to see a wide variety of other creatures, too—creatures like birds, sea lions, sharks, and dolphins—during your whale watching safari.

unique activities

Whale Mammal Animal Marine – Free photo on Pixabay

Volcano Visit

Looking for a little sizzle in your vacation experience? Add visiting a volcano to your to-do list. 

For instance, if you’re visiting the Southwest Pacific Ocean island country of Vanuatu, you’ll come across some of the world’s most gorgeous volcanoes. These volcanoes are active and are, in fact, still growing as a result of tectonic movement. So, viewing them couldn’t be a better way to enjoy a unique, enthralling experience—and one you can capture proof of on camera.

Chocolate Factory Visit

Chocolate lovers unite! At an iconic chocolate factory located at your travel destination, such as Peru, you and fellow chocolate connoisseurs can satisfy both your sweet tooth and your curiosity about all things related to confection creation. 

Get ready to learn anything and everything there is to know about the making of chocolate. During your chocolate factory tour, you may learn about the process of roasting cocoa beans, boiling beans, and fermenting beans to remove the bitterness. You’ll also learn about the various types of chocolates made in the past following the discovery of cocoa plants. And the best part? You’ll have the chance to taste some of the chocolates being made—an irresistible way to top off the day.


Food Dessert Pralines – Free photo on Pixabay

Windsurfing

Imagine the feeling of the wind blowing in your face and washing all of your cares and stresses away one breezy gust at a time. This can easily become your reality if you choose to go windsurfing during your next vacation, especially if you’re going to a popular windsurfing destination, like Argentina.

During your excursion, you can take in the picturesque scenery surrounding you—

think shimmery waters and snow-capped mountains—as you unwind and relax. You’ll also simultaneously get a workout. That’s the added bonus you need to feel your best holistically, from a physical, mental, and emotional perspective

Cooking Fun

Want to unleash your inner chef and enjoy high-end cuisine in the process? Sign up for a cooking class during your next vacation, or embark on a food tour. Both of these excursions are excellent alternatives to simply dining at a restaurant yet again.

For instance, take a cooking class in the home of a local chef in countries like Portugal and Thailand, which will add to your local perspective. Meanwhile, on a food tour, you’ll walk to local eateries to indulge in a wide variety of local flavors over a two- to four-hour period. If you’re a libation lover, you can also enjoy paying a visit to a number of local breweries or distilleries to discover some new favorite beers or wines while also enjoying your old favorites.

Water Slide

If water activities are a must for you when you go on vacation, then carve out time for a water slide adventure. For instance, in Brazil, you can try out Agua Park or Beach Park along Rio De Janeiro’s east coast. 

Be prepared (as prepared as you can be) for quick-flowing rapids as well as bubbling pools of warm water. And take a break from the rapids from time to time by relaxing in large hammocks. You’ll feel like you’re living your best life at an oasis—and you’ll enjoy every minute of it.

Take Your Vacation Unique Activities to a Whole New Level Today!

Vacation is more than just an opportunity to break away from the day-to-day. It’s also an opportunity to get your feet wet (so to speak) and experience a range of emotions that have been buried for far too long—feelings like anticipation, excitement, and even stomach knots that come undone through adrenaline-filled moments of ecstasy.

Consider the above-mentioned unique activities on your next trip across the nation or the globe. With the right combination of unique activities, you can easily elevate your travel experience and learn firsthand what it means to live again.

Featured image: https://pixabay.com/photos/map-travel-travel-map-explore-3578213/

Luxury Travel, South America, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

Luxury Destination Travel Post-COVID: 5 Things to Consider

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While many favorite global destinations were off-limits in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 and beyond promises a post-COVID world. Thanks to the steady rollout of vaccinations, we can look forward to travelling in a post-COVID world sooner rather than later. As we plan our future luxury travel trips, it’s important to think about where to go, what to do, how to get there, and more.

  • Where to Go
post-covid

Deciding where to go is the first step in traveling after the virus. You will need to pay attention to what health requirements certain countries require, so as to choose countries with few entry requirements or ensure you’ve taken the correct steps before embarking on your trip.

Some countries will open to tourists earlier than others. In fact, countries such as Costa Rica have already been open to tourists for months—you don’t even need vaccination to take a holiday at a private luxury vacation rental in Costa Rica (at the time of writing). Conversely, other countries and even airlines are likely to require proof of vaccination before you can enter the country or aircraft. So be sure you’re aware of the necessary health requirements for your destination and transportation of choice.

If you’re having trouble deciding where to travel, it might be helpful to consult with a luxury travel expert, whose job it is to stay up-to-date on the latest travel requirements. They also have the connections and experience necessary to plan a customized and seamless vacation for you. If you choose not to consult with a travel professional, ensure you check and double-check the health requirements you’ll need to fulfill before embarking on your trip.

  • What to Do
post-covid

Once you’ve decided where you’re going, it’s time to check out the available activities. If you’re heading to Africa, for example, going on a safari to see the wildlife is an unforgettable experience. Or, if you’re heading to a big city like Paris, consider historical tours or visits to local cafes.

Don’t forget to build time into your schedule to relax. A vacation isn’t really a vacation if you’re stressed about making a bunch of deadlines or adhering to an inflexible plan. Having at least two rest days built into your schedule (depending on how long you’re traveling) can help everyone unwind and enjoy themselves.

  • How to Get There
post-covid

One of the most important considerations for traveling post-COVID is which transportation method is safest and most convenient. No matter whether you’re flying in-country or internationally, you’ll likely need to participate in pre-flight virus testing to make sure you’re clear to travel. It’s crucial to book your flight and your pre-flight test at the required intervals to obey all safety precautions.

If you’re driving, you’re less likely to need a test. However, you should still obey all health and safety protocols of the areas you’re traveling through and traveling to. This is especially true for road trips where you may be crossing multiple borders.

  • What to Eat

Arguably one of the best parts of any luxury vacation is the food. Fine dining can make the difference between an “okay” getaway and one you’ll savor. When you’ve decided where you’re going, search for the best local restaurants and eateries to sample once you’re there.

Don’t rely only on the “big name” restaurants—ask the locals or a coffee shop barista for their favorite recommendations. You can discover hidden gems with truly authentic cuisine when you venture from the well-worn tourist path.

Restaurants and the food industry, in general, were hit hard by the pandemic, so the coming months and years are going to be crucial for keeping smaller restaurants afloat. Next time you travel, forgo eating at international chain restaurants in favor of supporting local establishments.

  • What to Pack

What to put in your suitcase will be even more important in post-COVID times. Whether or not masks are still required at your destination, they’re almost certain to be required on public planes for a while, and it’s still a good idea to take a few masks even if you’re flying private.

Similarly, don’t make the mistake of thinking hand sanitizer and cleaning wipes will no longer be needed post-COVID, these supplies were a good idea before COVID and they’ll continue to be a good idea after the virus is under control. You don’t want to get sick from getting any virus at all during your trip, so it always pays to quickly sanitize often-touched surfaces like light switches, doorknobs, and the toilet handles at your destination. A COVID vaccine doesn’t equal protection from every virus.

Post-pandemic travel is closer than ever since COVID-19 first emerged. While many people are understandably eager to revisit their favorite destinations as soon as feasible, be sure to keep these important tips for traveling in a post-pandemic world in mind before your next trip.

Travel Tips

A Guide to Visiting Animal Sanctuaries Around the World

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Sloth in animal sanctuary

Swimming with dolphins, riding horses, or hanging out with sloths: these are just a few items that might be on the bucket list for an animal lover. Fortunately, for those of us willing and able to travel, this dream can become a reality on your journey abroad in a way that’s not harmful to the species or animal itself. 

The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries defines an animal rescue or sanctuary as a facility that provides care and protection for wild and domesticated animals. While some organizations are entirely rehabilitation-based, others provide lifelong care for the animals in their charge if release is not a viable option. Many sanctuaries are locally run and operated by those who aim to promote the welfare of not only the individual animals but the entire ecosystem as well.

Animal Sanctuaries Around The World

The world is full of wonders. For some, it’s the people, plants, and wildlife that amaze and intrigue the most. Many sanctuaries work to conserve threatened and endangered species while offering life-changing opportunities to interact with these animals.

Costa Rica alone has several highly rated animal sanctuaries that offer protection for wild and domesticated species. It’s common for sloths, exotic birds, and monkeys to be found in sanctuaries such as the Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary, Jaguar Rescue Center, or Osa Wildlife Sanctuary.

“There are many amazing animals in Costa Rica,” Alfred Decarolis, the owner of Casa Teresa, said. “For visitors, seeing these species thrive right before your eyes imbues you with respect for the work and a desire to help—even after you leave.”

If you happen to be in Australia or New Zealand, you’ll find opportunities to pet, swim with, or feed several species unique to the Land Down Under. Between ziplining adventures, helicopter tours, and local cave explorations, there are an enormous amount of animal sanctuaries to explore. In Australia, try out Featherdale Wildlife Park or Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary, or in New Zealand, try out Zealandia.

kangaroos

In Japan, the island of Tashirojima has become not only a sanctuary for cats but a paradise for them as well. Cats are fed and taken care of by locals and visitors alike on an island that celebrates their quirks and usefulness. To this day, people still pray at the local shrine dedicated to a former feline resident of the island.

On a different island in Borneo, Indonesia, Tanjung Puting acts as a national park and prominent orangutan sanctuary. Various species of plants and other animals are protected here from deforestation. The park is open to the public and serves as an educational hub for the local environment. Guests can spot rare birds and unique plants, as well as feed orangutans. 

Travelers stopping in Croatia will discover numerous national parks, each offering a different experience. A few of these island parks require a boat ride to access them. While there aren’t many opportunities to interact directly with the protected wildlife here, exotic animals such as zebra and elephants can often be spotted on safaris around the parks.

How You Can Help

When animal lovers see a furry, scaly, or feathered friend in need, their instinct is to help. However, this is a task that should be left to the experts who understand the effects that one touch can have on an animal. 

horse

Rescues are proof of this. But in order to maintain quality care, many sanctuaries rely on donations and the volunteer efforts of locals and travelers with a soft spot for animals. 

For those with wanderlust and philanthropic tendencies, there are several volunteer destinations that allow you to travel the world and lend a hand to elephants, sea turtles, and everything in between. Volunteers can assist with cleaning, feeding, and other helpful services benefitting the sanctuary’s animal population.

For recuperating animals, a healthy diet is important to improve an animal’s well-being. Whether it’s man’s best friend or nature’s fiercest predator, nutrition is vital—especially in rehabilitation cases. Proper funding provides the necessary resources needed for the animals in their care. 

Participating in animal tourism and donating are just two options that allow you to support animal sanctuaries. Whether you’re handling these animals or watching them from afar, it’s important to leave things as they are. Tread lightly during your visits to some of the most beautiful and exotic animal sanctuaries around the world. The animals there will thank you for it.


Editor's Picks, Travel Tips

How Long Flight Travel Affects Your Health

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Air travel is taxing on the body even on the best of days. What happens to your well-being onboard an airplane isn’t always pretty. A combination of cramped spaces, pressure changes, low-humidity, and higher exposure to germs make it much easier to fall ill while you’re on the move. Travelers on long-haul flights may experience strange sensations, dehydration, and difficulty falling asleep — a recipe for vacation disaster.

So before you navigate through the TSA Checkpoint and hop aboard your next marathon flight, learn some of the effects of long flight travel on your health. With a few simple tricks, you can combat some of the top culprits that can ruin your holiday plans. Luckily, a little bit of prevention can go a long way for frequent fliers!

Problem 1: Slow Circulation

Poor circulation is one of the most common health problems air travellers experience on a long distance flight. With only a few inches of space in front of your knees, keeping the blood flowing on board is difficult. For travellers who fly more than four hours, the chance of developing a blood clot increases. The risks are even higher for certain groups of travellers: women on birth control, travellers who have undergone recent surgery, or senior citizens are especially at risk.

Sitting with feet flat on the floor for hours on end can lead to the blood pooling in your veins and cause problems like deep-vein thrombosis.

Solution: Swollen feet and lower limbs can be prevented by following these helpful in-flight routines:

  • On longer flights, get up and move around at least every two hours.
  • Step aboard armed with compression socks to help promote circulation and keep your feet feeling fresh.
  • Drink plenty of water and wear loose clothing during the flight.

Other on-board techniques like the “flex and point” exercise can help your feet stay active, even in a stationary position. It’s simple: point your toes like a ballerina and then flex them back. Repeating something as simple as this while you sit in turbulence can decrease the symptoms of poor circulation.

Problem 2: Catching Colds

Another unwelcome result of air travel is the increased likelihood of catching a common cold. Studies show that your likelihood of catching a cold after air travel increases drastically. With so many passengers huddled together in close quarters, all the sniffling, coughing and wheezing is hard to avoid.

Solution: Come prepared with some immunity-boosting supplies and prepare to take a few preventative measures en route.

  • Make sure to put a small container of hand sanitizer in your carry-on luggage.
  • Stock up on daily vitamins before, during, and after travel.
  • Keep your distance when you can. There’s no need to rush into that crowd ready to disembark if you don’t have to!

Another useful trick? Keep baby wipes on hand and wipe down that airplane tray before you put food on it. Avoid touching surfaces that you don’t need to touch. Other common sense rules go without saying: wash your hands frequently, eat healthy meals full of fruits and vegetables, and get plenty of rest.

Problem 3: Sleep Disruption

Speaking of getting plenty of rest, sleep disruption is another health-risk that you can definitely avoid when you travel. Being tired or jet-lagged can decrease your immunity meaning that making sure you feel well rested makes for a more pleasant (and healthy!) journey.

Solution: There are a few simple steps you can follow to help enhance your sleep on a plane.

  • Grab a few comfort items such as a compact travel pillow, cosy travel wrap, or warm slippers.
  • Make sure you invest in some noise-cancelling headphones. Prepare yourself with some relaxing music to accompany the flight.
  • Try natural supplements like melatonin to get you in the mood for rest.

Sometimes, it’s worth planning ahead and thinking about your seating. If paying a bit more for a choice seat or extra leg room will help you rest, the investment will pay off when you feel more refreshed upon arrival.

Problem 4:  Dehydration

Drinking enough water before take-off is tricky business. It’s hard to find the middle ground between drinking too much water and having to get up out of tight quarters multiple times to use the restroom (and expose yourself to more germs!).

Solution: Our best advice is to begin your hydration process a few days before.

  • Reduce or avoid coffee and alcohol altogether.
  • Find portable drinkware that is functional and clips to your backpack or carry-on.
  • Before take-off, grab a bottle of coconut water.

If you’re worried about bringing your full bottle of water through security — don’t. There is always a dumping station nearby, and you can always refill your water on the other side. Don’t forget to hydrate your skin too. Marula oil is a multi-purpose product that works wonders to combat that dry and flakey feeling in the air and can be used to smooth hair frizz as well, and Korean sheet masks are also great to carry onboard, and will keep your skin feeling fresh and hydrated while being mess-free.

Problem 5: Pressure Changes

That ear-popping feeling is all too common amongst travellers. Although it’s more of an annoyance, air pressure changes can really have an impact on your health. Gas expands at high altitudes, so if you’re feeling a bit more bloated than normal, it’s not just in your head.

Solution: Here are some things to avoid and keep in mind before you fly.

  • It’s best not to indulge in that huge buffet before departure. Stick to lighter meals instead.
  • Keep some gum on hand to combat that annoying popping in your ear.
  • Avoid carbonated drinks and stick to plain water.

Air travellers have also reported feeling sore teeth while traveling which is the result of your fillings expanding at higher altitudes. All the more reason to make sure you have some great movies on standby or other onboard entertainment to distract you from all those weird feelings linked to pressure changes!

Despite the health risks of a long-haul flight, cross-country travel is now becoming more common and more economical for travellers. With the world’s longest flight now taking almost 19 hours (from Singapore to New York City), learning how to combat the effects of a long-haul flight is now more important than ever. Prepare yourself today for your next trip!