First Hand Traveling Tips w/ Sheila Cluff

* Planning:
      Allow enough time for yourself and your family members to efficiently shop for the best deals!  Planning months in advance may be time consuming for many, but in the long run you are planning for a stress free-relaxing-FUN vacation.  Whether you are planning for a weekend get-away, or a family outdoor exploration; booking hotel rooms, day spa arrangements, or even a few days at the theme park, why hassle with last minute booking?  Not only will it save you & your family money with great package deals, but knowing everything is planned for is relieving just in its self.   Gathering some research prior to your trip may also be very helpful.  Fitness facilities, salons, local tours/hikes, restaurants, or even museums may be an interest to you.  This will ensure you pack the proper items needed for those specific activities and or adventures.

     Once your traveling arrangements and appointments are made, why not begin a mini-shopping spree for any necessary personal toiletry items or whatever other items you may need.  Nothing wrong with a little bargain shopping prior to your trip so you can splurge that much more later on!

* Packing:
    Now here comes the fun part, PACKING- everyone’s favorite chore!  Many may find it challenging to only pack one or two suitcases, depending on the length of the trip.  Making sure items such as razors, nail clippers, crocheting needles, scissors, etc. are stored away safely in luggage that will be checked in.  Packing hand wipes or baby wipes may also come in handy for your trip as well.  Baby wipes are great for removing recent stains off of your clothing or even cleansing your hands or face for a more refreshing feeling.  For a carry on item, it may of interest to you to pack a small container of mineral water to spritz your face every half an hour.  Ensuring that you are completely relaxed, cool, and stress-free during the extent of your flight.


 Last Minute Check List:
- Confirm any bookings, restorations, and scheduled appointments.

- Make sure to pack light & smart, especially where prescription products are concerned.  Always
   carry your medications in their original containers and take them onboard with you. 

- Print out airfare tickets in advanced & be sure it’s legible to read.

- Place all ID’s, passports, & itineraries in a safe place for easy access.

- Be kind to your body, get the sleep you need, and drink plenty of water.

- Choose foods that your body likes and use plenty of common sense.  It’s great fun to sample exotic
   foods, but if you have allergies or have health concerns, be careful.

- Get acclimated.  If you’re hiking or sightseeing at high altitudes, you’ll want to increase your
   activity level slowly.

- Watch the sun and heat.  Always use a sunscreen, even underneath clothing.  Apply sunscreen 30
   minutes before going into the sun and do so in the shade.

* Making Your Trip Comfortable: A Suitcase Full of Fit Travel Tips

- Loose fitting clothing should be taken into consideration when traveling, while keeping comfort in
  mind.  Avoid a bra with a hook in the back.  Sitting with the hook jabbing into your spine is
  unpleasant. Front hooking bras are a travelers dream.

- Fool your body clock by eating 5 or 6 small meals the day before you cross time zones.  You will
  feel more energetic and then you can splurge on delicious exotic cuisine when you reach your
  destination without any hint of guilt.

- Want to feel fresher when you arrive to your destination?  Here are some of my favorite in-flight
  exercises that are the secrets of staying healthy while away from home.   Feel free to use them
  and share them with others:

      1. Lace your fingers and raise your arms above your head. Hold for a count of 15, and then relax.
           Repeat with arms straight out from the shoulders then pushing your hands down to the floor        
           of the plane.

      2. While sitting, bring your feet up to your buttocks and hug your thighs, rounding your back.  
           Hold for a count of 30 and relax.

      3. Take a walk around the plane as often as possible, hunching your shoulders, straightening
           your posture, contracting your abdomen, rotating every possible joint in your body.

- And lastly, pack your healthy lifestyle and you'll stay fit for life!