Not Your Average Travel Kit
If you follow me on Instagram you know that I am blessed to be able to travel quite often. As glamorous as it may seem, no one really talks about the hurdles that come with flying. Whether you’re in economy or first class, an airplane is still ultimately a small pressurized compartment that is a breeding ground for bacteria. Not to mention, being up in the air for an extended period of time causes dehydration, dry skin, headaches, bloating, swelling, aches, pains and anxiety. Then once you’ve reached your destination you may experience jetlag, constipation, insect bites (depending on where you’re traveling, of course) and so on and so forth. Navigating through these challenges can seem overwhelming, whether you're an anxious infrequent flyer or a bon vivant. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered for the basics! Have the following on-hand you should be good to go!
Travel Wipes
Once situated in my seat, I take out these wipes and sanitize anything I’m likely to touch—most commonly the arm rest, table, and screen. Don’t worry about looking like “that” germaphobe. At the end of the day you don’t want to be sick upon reaching your destination do you?
Ingredients
2 Drops Lavender
2 Drops Ginger
4 Drops Thyme Linalol
4 Drops Lemongrass
2 Drops Tea Tree
5 Dampened Paper Towels
Method
Combine essential oils and store in small dark bottle. Use 2-3 drops of the blend per paper towel and seal in a resealable bag.
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Insect Detterent
Did you know there are over 3,000 species of mosquitoes? Each of which are attracted to different bodily chemicals. I used to be the reigning queen of bites, as I would generally be the only one in the group attacked. For instance, I left a trip to Costa Rica in 2015 with over 30, the most I’ve ever had to-date. I still have some scars to prove it! After that trip I vowed “never again” will I go anywhere tropical unprepared. This blend has widely helped keep my numbers to single-digits, if any at all. I not only spray this on my skin, but also in the window sills, over the bed, the cracks of the door, and on a few pieces of wood half an hour before putting them on a fire outside (glamping) or if there’s a fireplace.
Ingredients
4 Drops Thyme Linalol
8 Drops Lemongrass
4 Drops Lavender
4 Drops Peppermint
2 Drops Tea Tree Oil
Method
Combine essential oils and store in a small dark bottle. It is suggested to multiply this recipe at least by 5.
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Disinfectant Cleanse
If an insect was able to get by the deterrent and bite you, this blend is extremely effective.
Ingredients
10 Drops Lavender
20 Drops Thyme Linalol
10 Drops Eucalyptus
1T Apple Cider Vinegar
Method
Combine drops in a bowl of room temperature water, use a towel to gently wipe down effected area.
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Headaches, Swelling, Anxiety, and Jetlag Relief
This blend is a one-size-fits-all of sorts; however, the method of application varies. With that said, the amount at which you will have to make ahead of time really depends on your personal needs. Quite simply, it requires equal parts of lavender and geranium oils, whether it be 1 drop each or 10.
Ingredients
Equal parts Lavender Oil and Geranium Oil
Method
For Headaches and Jetlag: Rub on temples
Swelling: Rub on effected area
Anxiety: Apply 1 drop each to a tissue and hold to your nose and inhale