Getting ready for a trip? Whether you have a diagnosed heart condition or you’re just health-conscious, it’s important to stay on top of your heart health during your travels. Use this quick checklist to help you pack items that support your heart health while traveling.
- 1. Snacks
It’s easy to let your diet fall to the wayside while you travel. Come prepared with some heart-healthy snacks that you can reach for in a pinch. Food like trail mix with nuts and seeds, apples and oranges (no refrigeration needed), and whole grain crackers are great snacks to pack in your carry-on or glove compartment.
- 2. Kardia personal EKG
Unfortunately arrhythmias don’t wait for the doctor’s office. Common travel habits like increased caffeine and alcohol consumption, higher stress levels, and poor sleep are known to trigger arrhythmias like AFib.1 Traveling with a personal EKG can help you check in on your heart on the go. Kardia devices, especially KardiaMobile Card, are small, light, and easy to pack in your purse or wallet.
- 3. Water Bottle
Dehydration is common during travel. There’s a lot going on, and we simply forget to drink water sometimes! Unfortunately, dehydration is a common trigger for AFib.1 Pack a reusable water bottle with you to help keep your body hydrated.
- 4. Walking Shoes
Traveling takes you out of your routine, and sometimes that means exercise goes out the window. Pack your walking shoes and try incorporating a quick walk each morning to stay active and keep your heart happy—even if it means jumping on the hotel treadmill.
- 5. Headphones
Travel can be stressful, which may put strain on your heart.1 Pack your headphones and download some calming music, a guided meditation, or an audiobook. Tuning out the travel noise and disruption can help you manage stress levels.
Traveling doesn't have to mean taking a vacation from your heart health. By thoughtfully packing a few key items like heart-healthy snacks, a Kardia personal EKG, a reusable water bottle, walking shoes, and headphones, you can stay proactive about your well-being on the go. Prioritizing these simple steps can help you enjoy your adventures with greater peace of mind, ensuring your trip is both memorable and heart-healthy.
Kardia personal EKGs do not check for heart attack and do not replace regular health checkups with your physician. Seek medical attention if you are experiencing any concerning symptoms or if you are having an emergency.
1. michiganmedicine.org/health-lab/7-common-afib-triggers-may-surprise-you
