So you’ve decided to go on a trip! Maybe you are escaping the bustle of Manhattan for the calm of a peaceful seashore or perhaps you are taking a business trip to pitch your newest marketing plan to the corporate office. Either way, the last thing you want to be worrying about is foot problems. By planning ahead and being prepared, you can travel comfortably and focus on your trip, not your toes. Following these simple tips can help you take care of your feet when traveling.
Proper Shoes
Proper footwear is always important, but even more so when you are traveling. Long flights, layovers, and hours on your feet can be brutal. Think ahead about how long you anticipate being in the same pair of shoes, and choose travel-day shoes that are comfortable, supportive, and easy to slip on and off.
Pro tip: if you have to remove your shoes for airport security, wear socks so that you don’t walk that floor with bare feet.
Of course, the type of trip will determine what type of shoes are appropriate. For a business setting, wear professional shoes that you are already used to wearing. This will help avoid blisters and calluses from breaking in a pair of new shoes. Going on vacation? Enjoy your sandals, but think about what kind of support your feet need if you are doing more than lounging on the beach all day. And don’t forget the sunscreen! Burns on your feet can be very painful.
Packing Tips
Seasoned travelers know the trick to packing light is to bring as few items as possible. The problem comes when we forget or intentionally leave behind the essentials. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you pack.
Your Foot Health
Do you suffer from chronic foot problems such as corns, bunions, or fallen arches? Definitely throw in your orthotics or corn footpads. If you have a history of bursitis or other painful conditions, you may want to include an over-the-counter pain medication that has worked well in the past.
Packing Light
Try to pack shoes that can do double duty: a supportive flat that can be worn at the office and out to supper; boots that can get wet but also wear well for a long day traveling. This will enable you to be prepared for multiple situations without transporting multiple pairs of shoes. If your trip is long, consider two pairs of shoes so that you don’t have to wear the same pair every day. This will cut down on constant irritation from the same pair of shoes, reducing your risk for calluses.
Time to Relax
One of the hardest parts of traveling is the long days away from the comfort of your home. A small bag of Epsom salt and your favorite lotion or cozy socks can provide the comfort and relaxation you need at the end of a long day.
Be cautious of spas and salons that you are not familiar with. Especially if you are traveling overseas, get reliable confirmation that the places you are going have high standards of hygiene and ethical practices. You may also find the need to wash your feet more frequently, especially if you are in a dry or dusty climate.
Wherever you go, we at Best Foot Doctor NY, Manhattan look forward to serving you when you return home. We hope these tips are helpful for taking care of your feet when traveling.