Holistic Hacks for Travel: How to Create a Travel Remedy Kit

Some of you may, or may not know but TONIGHT I am leaving to Thailand for 3 weeks. I haven’t been overseas since I was 21 years old. So, we’re talking over a decade now. (Hint: to my age). Traveling isn’t the same for me as it was 10 years ago. I pack quite differently and my mind is more focused on immune boosting supplements, digestive enzymes, and activated charcoal (what’s that? I’ll tell you below!) It can happen, when traveling to distant or foreign places your intestines and gut may be wondering what’s up and need some extra support. (Yes, I am talking bowel movements too!) I tend not to take any chances and pack the support I may or may not need.  Below is a compilation of my travel remedy kit that will keep me feeling healthy, so I can enjoy my vacation and come home feeling more refreshed!

Probiotics

This is at the TOP of my list. I will not travel to foreign countries without bringing along a well-sourced, good quality probiotic. Probiotics help balance the friendly bacteria in the digestive system and can reduce the risk and severity of diarrhea from a number of different causes. I do take the approach of eating fermented foods over taking a supplement as fermented foods contain more diverse bacteria strains than the supplement. However, while traveling (or after a row of antibiotics) it’s always a good idea to supplement.  

Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is super popular for good reason. One of the most popular activated charcoal uses is for the safe and effective treatment of drug overdose and poisoning. It’s used in emergency trauma centers around the world. I bring it traveling with me as it is also used to reduce bloating and gas, AND even prevents hangovers. 

*An important note: when taking activated charcoal it’s imperative to drink 12 glasses of water per day. But hey, that would also help a hang over. 

Digestive Enzymes

Digestive enzymes prevent nutrient deficiencies and support gut health. You always hear the saying “you are what you eat”, but the truth is you are what you absorb, and digestive enzymes are important to both better digestion and nutrient absorption. These enzymes help break down large molecules found in the foods we eat into smaller molecules that our guts are capable of absorbing. I am talking about protein, carbohydrates and fats. While I typically follow a whole foods, Paleo approach I realize that this might not be entirely possible while traveling over seas. In the event where I am faced with foods that I know might be more difficult to break down, or any sort of digestive distress, digestive enzymes will help break down those macro nutrients and still allow me to absorb the nutrients from the food I am eating.  

Gaba

This is a new one for me. Gabba is a chemical that is made in the brain. It is a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. When taken orally it helps to relieve anxiety and improve mood. In recent years I have become a nervous flyer (currently digging into my why behind this), so taking this is going to help me relax during flights, so I’m not such a nervous nelly. Interesting fact: low levels of Gaba are linked to anxiety and mood disorders.

Coconut Oil

Okay, so living in Edmonton this is a MUST for dry skin. When it comes to traveling Coconut oil is an essential due to its versatility and many practical uses. Traveling by plane often causes the skin to dry. Coconut oil works as a great skin moisturizer, AND a great shaving cream for women and men. It also effectively gets rid of makeup (no more panda eyes). It helps treat cuts and wounds. It can happen while traveling that you incur some cuts and wounds. By dabbing an ample amount of coconut oil onto them, a protective barrier is created, keeping the wound moisturized and preventing germs and bacteria from causing further infection. Finally, coconut oil increases energy levels. You always need energy when you’re on a trip! It also curbs hunger and improves fat burning. Don’t believe me? Just eat 1-2 tbsp. of coconut oil. 

Peppermint Halo Extract by Sage

I actually always have one of these on me. It’s a great herb that soothes and comforts with a cooling effect on the skin and head. If you have a headache coming on this is great to rub on the temples, skin and hair for a refreshing, therapeutic approach.

What products or supplements do you pack when traveling?