the Highly Sensitive Traveler
Navigating the world with heightened sensitivity has taught me so much, especially when it comes to traveling. Nowadays traveling feels a bit savage on my nervous system.
Embarking on a journey, whether for exploration or relaxation, demands not just packing but mindful preparation. It’s about bringing along not only what we need but also what comforts us in unfamiliar places.
I’m happy to share with you my must-have packing list that caters to both necessities and comforts, especially crafted for those of us with a neurodiverse or highly sensitive approach to life.
Begin with the Basics: What You Need and What Comforts You
Travel is more than moving from one point to another; it’s about maintaining our inner equilibrium in new environments. Here’s my personal list of essentials for any trip:
Extra Large Hoodie: This isn’t just any hoodie; it’s a specially chosen, oversized comfort garment designed for air travel. Its generous size allows you to wrap yourself up cozily or even pull the hood over your face, creating a private, snug haven right in your airplane seat. This hoodie is a key ally in keeping you warm and giving you a touch of privacy in the too-close comfort of a flight.
A Face Mask: An indispensable travel companion, perfect for those moments when you doze off especially if you are a mouth breather. Adding a few drops of essential oil turns it into a source of pleasant, soothing scents, enhancing your travel environment. I used face masks before Covid days.
Scarf or Shawl: Versatile and multifunctional, it can be a blanket, a pillow, or a piece of familiar comfort away from home.
Essential Oils: Lemon, Orange, Peppermint, and Bergamot are my go-tos for a refreshing scent in the cabin air. A drop on your hands, followed by a gentle sweep near the air vent, can work wonders. Peppermint is particularly good for combating nausea, added to water.
Rose Water or Herbal Hydrosol: A spritz can freshen you up in an instant, and when infused rescue remedy, it helps soothe travel-induced nerves.
Lotion: To counteract the drying effect of cabin air, a good moisturizer is essential. It keeps your skin hydrated, making you feel more comfortable and refreshed.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Freshening up after a long flight is a small but significant act of self-care that can make a big difference in how you feel.
Facial Wipes: An essential for instant refreshment during extended flights. These wipes offer a swift and easy solution to revitalize your skin, sweeping away the fatigue of travel and leaving you feeling clean, refreshed, and ready to enjoy your journey. Ideal for a quick pick-me-up without the need to navigate the airplane restroom. You can also use them to freshen up your private areas too.
Hand Sanitizer and Wipes: Choose options with mild or no fragrance to avoid the strong chemical smell, and use them to wipe down your seat area for a cleaner and more comfortable travel space.
Snacks: Select snacks that you enjoy and that make you feel good and bring you a little joy. Make sure they are snacks that make you feel good too. I often travel with cut carrots, celery, apples, baby bell cheeses and gluten free pop tarts.
Noise Canceling Headphones: This is for obvious reasons!
Eye Mask: I love having an eye mask for the airplane.
When I get on the airplane, I have the bag for under the seat ready to go so I can easily grab the wipes, wipe down the area I will be in, add essential oils to my hands and out my hand up to the vent to help with the smell of the plane and creates space for me to feel a little more relaxed.
Mindful Packing for Peace of Mind
In my carry-on, I include essentials for the first few days, preparing for any unexpected detours my luggage might take. And, to keep a watchful eye on my checked bag, I secure it with an AirTag, offering reassurance that, should we part ways, we’ll be reunited soon.
Tips for Low-Stress Traveling
We are all neurospicy in our own ways. So follow the way that works for you. I am a personal advocate for packing in advance— I begin often weeks or even months ahead, depending on my trip length. This is great plan if you have any animal companions, it helps them to understand that you are going to be taking a trip and helps them get used to it as well.
This method not only eases travel anxiety but also allows for a thoughtful selection process, ensuring that every item packed serves a purpose. Especially for long trips or solo travels, feeling at ease with what you carry is paramount. For me, the key to a harmonious journey lies in preparation, it helps my nervous system feel relaxed and not overwhelmed.
I have a treasure trove of tips still to share, and I can’t wait to delve into more ways to make our travels as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Stay tuned for further insights and ideas to enhance your travel experiences.
Share in the comments below, what has worked for you when traveling and why! I would love to hear!
Here’s to embracing the journey with open hearts and minds. Happy travels, my loves!
