We always look forward to vacations. Having that special trip a few months away can help you get though some of those long, tough days at work. One secret we've discovered to making vacations so enjoyable is to nail a few of the basics. Below are a few tips that we've learned (the hard way) to help ensure your special getaway is wonderfully successful.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate - If you're anything like us, there's a tendency to drink less water when traveling than you do at home. We're here to encourage you to do the opposite. This is extra important when you're spending time outdoors in the sun or if you are in areas with low humidity like the Southwestern U.S. When you're dehydrated, you'll suffer and your skin will suffer. Spending extra time in the sun or sweaty? Try a hydration booster like Liquid IV or LMNT.
Use Sunscreen Galore - Julia grew up putting sunscreen on at the beach but otherwise, not so much. It's a hard habit to change, but it's recommended to always wear sunscreen when you'll be exposed to the sun. PBS Newshour just ran a story about protecting your skin and suggested always storing sunscreen in a cool environment (think in the cooler if you're at the beach). Keep whatever sunscreen you'll use - mineral, chemical, stick, powder. Julia picked up some Colorescience Sunforgettable powdered sunscreen. It just brushes onto the face and can easily be carried in a purse for reapplication as needed.
Moisturize your skin (all of it!) - Although you should be moisturizing frequently, it's extra important after time in the sun. After showering and while your skin is still damp, apply a light layer of body oil. Of course, if you overdid it in the sun, aloe is always a good option. One area of the body that is all too often neglected are the heels. We've been taking many long walks, so Julia is now in the habit of applying a small amount of salve to her heels before putting her socks on before our walks. Small choices like that will help your heels be ready to shine in open backed shoes.
Rest - Traveling can be so exciting but it can also be exhausting. On more than one occasion we've returned from a vacation and thought, "We could sure use a break!". Schedule time for additional rest (a.k.a. power naps) to compensate for the stress of travel, increased activity level, change in time zones, etc. Try to keep your sleeping routine the same. Wayne uses an eye pillow to help get to sleep at home and it is the first thing to go in the suitcase when we travel.
We hope these few tips from our own experience help you have a more enjoyable and fulfilling vacation. We wish you safe travels and would love to hear about your own travel hacks.
Be Well,
Julia & Wayne