Long-Haul Warriors
Wherever the destination, these three picks were made to go the distance.
Long-haul travel can be brutal. Your body has no idea where you are and it’s as if up is now down and left has become right. But there’s no denying the wonderful people, places and things waiting on the other end of your trip make it well worth the messed up internal clock or wonky tummy.
As international travel starts up again in certain parts of the world, it’s time to think about what to pack after so much time away from the tarmac. The three products featured this week have taken care of me before, during and after flights of up to 14 hours, making them worth bringing along for your next faraway excursion. They can’t prevent jet lag (for that I say skip the in-flight booze), but they can definitely make the journey more comfortable.
Travel is a privilege. Be kind to the people who help you make it possible.
1. Dr. PAWPAW Original Clear Balm (£3.95 to £5.20)
One balm to rule them all. A multipurpose balm is a travel essential. My lips always feel dry when I have a long flight, because despite my best efforts, I always get dehydrated. Launched in 2013, the key ingredients in Dr.PAWPAW’s award-winning balm are pawpaw fruit, aloe vera and olive oil. Dab it anywhere your skin is feeling dry or irritated (hands, elbows, knees, etc.). It can even be used on your hair. Available in a variety of tinted options, this balm can also be applied to your cheeks in lieu of blush, helping you further streamline your packing. I’m a big fan of the red version.
2. FRESHME Handmade Cotton Sleep Mask (£12.99)
I’m not a big fan of sleeping masks. As a side sleeper, they always move around and wake me up. And with acne-prone skin, I get nervous wearing the same one night after night. But this mask from FRESHME was a game changer. More of a face wrap, it’s super soft, ergonomically designed and lightly padded all the way around, so it won’t dig into your ears or slide around. The velcro makes it easy to tighten for blocking out every bit of light and also for a bit of soothing pressure on your eyelids. The organic cotton means you can wash it as often as you like without worry.
3. Dream Water Sleep Shot ($26.99 for 12)
Whenever I have trouble sleeping—be it jet lag or anxiety—I reach for one of these Dream Water shots. I have been using them for more than a decade and always have some on hand for traveling or restless nights. The three sleep aids in this formula—gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), L5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) and melatonin—are ideal for short-term use to reset your sleep cycle or calm a busy mind every now and then. I fall asleep within 20-30 minutes and never wake up with a hangover. Also available as a powder (UK readers can get it here) or gummies.
*Editor’s Note: I am not a doctor, nutritionist or dietician. You should always consult your preferred medical professional before adding any supplements to your routine.
Something to think about …
Many of us are traveling further and further away from home now, ready to experience new cultures. That makes this the perfect time to revisit this post from National Geographic on how to be a “good traveler.” Follow this advice to get the most from your business or leisure adventures without pissing off any locals.