The daunting prospect of a long-haul flight or a long car journey can be ...painful… The seats in cars, trains or planes are not comfortable for journeys that are longer than one hour. Sitting still for an extended period of time can lead to pain in the back or neck. Which is why I’ve come up with five tips tha will help lessen or avoid the chances of straining our back while travelling.
Be Smart with Luggage
Be smart with moving your luggage. If needed, move and pivot with your feet so your whole body moves instead of just twisting your back. Better yet, avoid lifting altogether. You wouldn’t want to strain your back more than you have too! In fact, ask a flight attendant or a random stranger to help you out!
If you’re as introverted as I am and don’t want to hassle anyone, pack light! Rather than use one heavy bag, use two or three smaller bags. Especially if you’re the one responsible for lifting out of and into cars, taking them off baggage carousels or putting them in overhead compartments.
Bring your Own Back Support
Trains, cars, planes, buses..they don’t support you..or your back. Bringing your own support pillow will help make your ride more comfortable. I feel like I should have this as a warning: This is not the same as bringing a support animal. If you don’t have one or forget it, a rolled up jacket, sweater or blanket will work as well.
P.S If you don’t have a support pillow, pop into Camira-Springfield Chiropractic and our friendly staff will be more than happy to help you out!
Pack Light
Heavy bags are an inconvenience, to just about everyone. Pack less. Make your journey easier for yourself. As previously mentioned instead of packing one heavy bag, you could instead, use two or three. If you’re catching a flight, why not consider checking in any heavier bags.
This also applies to when you arrive at your destination. Arrived early to your hotel? Check in your bags and only carry a light backpack. Plan on exploring the city or country? Consider travelling with a small backpack that distributes weight evenly.
Better yet, play the “I’m older than you” or the “I’m the parent card” This always works...usually...
Make an Effort to Move as Much as Possible
Unless you plan to pass out for the entirety of your trip, it’s a good idea to move around a bit. Sitting too long can cause stiffness and pain. Doing simple stretches even before you board your flight, train or car can help relax your body. If you want to know what stretches work the best- check out this article from Smarter Travel.
Practice Good Posture
Make your journey as comfortable as possible. Make sure you sit upright and the headrest is supporting the middle of your head. Your shoulders should be kept straight and not hunched forward. If you’re driving make your seat is a comfortable position to avoid reaching for the wheel.
And that’s it! My five tips to travelling with back pain. Of course, these tips won’t stop you from back pain. But by thinking ahead and using these tips. You can help lessen the chances of straining your back and ultimately ensure your journey is more pleasurable.