Traveling can be a perfect way to make amazing memories. I enjoy getting out of our routine and exploring new places. I’m a sucker for a pretty view and can watch the hills and mountains roll by for hours. Sometimes the only way to get my kids to stop fighting is to get to a campsite with a gentle stream. It’s magic!
Road trips can be stressful though, especially when you throw kids or pets into the mix. Also, don’t sneak your dogs into a hotel; they will just bark all night. UGH. Just don’t do it, unless you are running away from a flood like we were and you have no choice. Still, not pleasant. That’s why its important to be prepared, and map out kid and pet-friendly hotels before you go if you can.
I’ve put together a list of must-have products and essential oils for traveling that cover pretty much all the bases and keep everyone content away from home.
Essential oils can be diffused, used topically, or even ingested*. I usually make diluted roller bottles and have small bottles of blends for diffusing. There are several styles of diffusers that work in the car, like personal diffusers similar to this sonic diffuser that is easy to use while on the move: https://www.discoverlsp.com/catalogsearch/result/?cat=0&q=car+diffuser or a car vent diffuser similar to this which requires no water: https://www.youngliving.com/en_US/products/car-vent-diffuser?al=car%20vent. You can also DIY a vent diffuser by using a wooden clothespin or gluing a cotton ball to a clothespin away from the clip. Drip 2-3 drops of one of the oils onto the clothespin or cotton ball and clip to your car’s a/c vent. Um, don’t just stick a cotton ball in the vent with oils on it - ask me how I know that and if that cotton ever came off!! No, it didn’t. ;)
We also bring a full-sized diffuser for the hotel rooms.
The "never leave home without 'em" oils:
Thieves / Thieves vitality– It freshens the air and keeps the car an anti-germ zone. This blend also contains oils that oxygenate and stimulate but don’t agitate. (I had to rhyme there). *We also love a drop in our coffee with a splash of half and half every morning.
StressAway– For when you run into traffic, detours, or speeding tickets. Also for when your kids are screaming at each other that someone “crossed the line in the seat” and are now “TOUCHING ME!” I need StressAway just thinking about it.
DiGize– I keep this in my purse at all times and use it whenever tummy troubles arise. Either rub on belly or feet, or *pop a drop in your mouth for seemingly instant relief.
Peppermint / peppermint vitality– Along with its refreshing scent, it can also soothe minor aches and tame issues caused by motion sickness. Is also helps with staying awake towards the end of your trip. *I like to put a drop in my mouth for energy or tummy support.
En-R-Gee– This is an invigorating blend. We use it to keep alert during long drives, especially at night when peppermint isn’t enough. I rarely diffuse this one though, because… kids.
Purification— This is a must for bugs and for helping your lymphatic system which can get sluggish when sitting still too long. It also helps with odors in the car or hotel rooms.
Notice I don’t have any calming oils? Other than StressAway I steer clear of calming oils that might relax the driver too much. Nobody wants a sleepy driver. If we are driving long distances without a hotel stop I’ll use a Lavender lip balm or lavender oil on my chest before catching some ZZZ’s in the passenger seat. That way I get the calming and relaxing properties of the lavender without it affecting Chief or whichever teenager is taking a shift.
Travel Products for a healthier, enjoyable trip:
Thieves products – I bring the trifecta of Thieves spray, Thieves wipes, and Thieves hand sanitizer. Traveling can be a messy and germ-infested business.
Seedlings wipes– These baby wipes are used for everything from cleaning up messes, wiping off makeup, or even a mini bath if the kids (or adults) have made a mess while eating snacks or the campsite showers are too busy.
Cool Azul pain cream or Deep Relief Roller– Perfect for slathering on stiff and achy joints and muscles from all those hours in the car or pushing yourself on the long hike.
NingXia Red singles – NingXia Red is an awesome antioxidant drink and gives you a pick me up. These singles are perfect for traveling and drinking on the go. Stay healthy while away from home!
Lavender Lip Balm – Say no to chapped lips and keep this on hand. Perfect for soothing dry skin, redness, and scrapes. It’s also great for applying before a nap because of Lavender’s calming properties.
Thieves Toothpaste – My favorite product. You need toothpaste anyway, right? It has none of the junk, and a bunch of things that improve oral health. It doubles as a deodorant in a pinch. Just use a pea-sized amount and divide between your armpits. It will be minty tingly but keep you from getting stinky (your car companions will thank you).
We are looking forward to our travels to North Carolina this summer! Anyone have a favorite activity there that you want to share?
Where are you headed to for your next vacation?
Oily travels,
Christy
