How to Manage Symptoms Through Summer Travel and Events
Don’t let a getaway set you back—here’s how to stay resilient on the move (written 06/08/2025)
As we move into summer and the season begins to shift, many of us are starting to think about travel—whether that’s a weekend getaway, a longer vacation, or simply spending more time out and about near to home.
But if you're living with a chronic condition, travel and an increased social schedule can bring a whole set of added challenges. It’s hard enough to manage your energy, nutrition, and routine when you're home and in a steady rhythm. On the road? When times get busy? That control can feel like it slips right through your fingers. Travel itself is taxing, on top of that, you are often pushing yourself to your limits - taking advantage of fun activities and spending time with friends or family.
So what do you do when you're not in your usual environment—but you still want to enjoy the moment without crashing afterward?
Good news: you can make travel work for you. You might still experience some symptom flares (that’s normal), but using these tried-and-tested tools will help you bounce back faster and stay more resilient throughout your trip.
ThriveNinety’s Travel Tips for Increased Resilience
These are the same strategies Andrea used to stay in peak condition while racing and traveling to the Olympics—and Katie still leans on to keep travel fun while keeping symptoms to a minimum:
1. Pacing Is Everything
Travel days are long. Exploring a new place, meeting up with loved ones, navigating airports—it adds up fast and taxes your system.
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Build in micro-breaks, even 5 minutes of stillness can recharge your system.
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Reduce your exposure to toxins like synthetic scents, cleaning products, or processed foods where possible.
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Give yourself buffer time—before, during, and after busy parts of the day.
You know your system will be taxed more than usual. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s creating just enough space to absorb that extra load while keeping symptoms to a minimum.
2. Unse Joint Mobilization to Boost Energy
A few minutes of gentle joint mobilization each day can help you feel more energized, aligned, and resilient—especially after long car rides or flights.
Even doing a few minutes in the morning or before bed can make a big difference.
Need a reminder? Check out our favorite mobilization → Three Free Tools
3. Stay Hydrated + Don't forget Food that Limits Inflammation
Make a little stash of travel-friendly, options that also help limit inflammation:
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Carrot sticks + hummus
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Boiled eggs
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Mixed nuts or trail mix
When food choices are limited or your schedule is unpredictable, having these on hand can help you stay steady, prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes (that can mimic Long COVID symptoms), and reduce inflammation.
Whether you're heading somewhere tropical, driving to see family, or just shifting into a more active season, we’re cheering you on - and here to help you be able to do more of what you love.
And if you’ve got a travel tip that helps you stay resilient and well, hit reply—we’d love to hear it.
Warmly,
Katie & Andrea
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