Tips for traveling by plane and staying in top form

Stuck on a plane, mid air, with a bunch of strangers, lots of germs and thin air. How are we suppose to survive all of this at the height flu season? Traveling and flu season can be disastrous for everyone, especially if you have to perform as soon as you land/arrive. To make it worse, some of us use their voice as their instrument and they can’t really mess around.

Here are some great tips from the Wellness Survey for Singers that I conducted a couple months ago. Singers are PROS when it comes to travel tips so… here they are:

• Take vitamins pre-flight

• Sleep the whole way if possible (some like to take Ambien or other light sleeping pills like Advil PM)

• Hydrate (before, during and after the flight)

• Have hand sanitizer with you

• Use a nasal spray if feeling congested

• Drink orange or tomato juice for an extra Vitamin C kick

• Bring an eye mask and ear plugs to keep out unwanted sounds (and nose plugs for the smells if you are daring!)

• Wet wipe everything, especially before you eat on you folding tray 

• Avoid coffee and alcohol

• Wash hands whenever possible 

• Bring a big scarf to help you stay warm and cozy, even if coming from a warm climate (extra socks too!)

• Eat a healthy and substantial meal before the flight

• Pack healthy snacks with you so you don’t end up eating the things you shouldn’t. There are always delays and unexpected events. 

• Focus on eating protein and whole grains. It helps the body recover from the travel lag

• Stretch before your travel (and during the travel if possible) 

• Wear comfortable clothing

• Avoid touching your face

• Have eye drops with you in case your eyes get dry

• Get your favorite seat, even if it costs extra $
  

  ** Many singers also mentioned using a humidiflyer. I haven't tried one but it sounds like a great investment!