Whether you’re a coach heading to a weekend seminar or an athlete travelling to your next big competition, travel is part of the job—but it can also be one of the most physically and mentally draining parts. Long drives, inconsistent meals, lack of sleep, and gear logistics can throw off performance if you’re not prepared. The good news? A few smart travel habits can help you stay focused, energised, and ready to go.
In 2023, the UK sports tourism industry contributed over £6.5 billion to the economy, with athletes, trainers, and instructors regularly travelling for competitions, workshops, and training camps. Whether it’s a solo trip or a full team journey, the way you plan and pack has a direct impact on how you perform when it counts.
Here’s how to travel smarter and show up at your best—on and off the mat, field, or stage.
Pack With Purpose
If you’ve ever dug through your bag looking for a charger or forgot your training shoes entirely, you know that packing without a system is asking for stress. The key is to pack light but strategically, so you’re ready for anything without hauling unnecessary gear.
Your travel checklist should include:
- Training clothes for each day (plus extras for sweat-heavy days)
- Layers for changing weather or cold venues
- A refillable water bottle and travel-friendly snacks
- Supplements or meds in labelled containers
- Resistance bands or massage tools for warm-ups
- A spare towel, notebook, and extra socks
Use packing cubes or labelled bags to separate clean from used gear, and don’t forget a small laundry bag so you’re not stuffing damp clothing back into your luggage.
Protect Your Gear and Vehicle
If you’re driving with valuable equipment or storing gear overnight in a car park, protecting your vehicle and its contents is essential. Your kit isn’t just expensive—it’s vital to your work. Whether it’s pads, mats, uniforms, or instruments, theft or damage can throw off your entire trip.
For those driving to events, especially with branded or easily recognisable vehicles, covering your car can help deter theft and shield it from weather damage. The Car Covers Factory offers vehicle covers that are water-resistant, UV-protective, and ideal for extended parking situations. A high-quality cover also protects your interior from overheating if you’re parked in the sun for hours during all-day competitions or events.
Other smart protection tips:
- Don’t leave gear visible through windows
- Use a steering wheel lock or tracker
- Park in well-lit areas or secure hotel garages
- Back up important documents or media to the cloud before you go
These small precautions can save you major stress (and money) down the line.
Stay Fuelled and Hydrated
Travel often means inconsistent eating—and for athletes and instructors, that can quickly lead to low energy or poor performance. Gas station snacks and fast food are convenient but can leave you feeling bloated or sluggish.
Keep your energy steady with:
- High-protein snacks like jerky, protein bars, or mixed nuts
- Electrolyte packets or tablets for long days in the sun or on the mat
- Instant oatmeal cups or shakes you can make with hot water
- Pre-portioned supplements or powdered greens
It’s also easy to forget hydration on travel days, especially when flying. Bring a large water bottle and make it a goal to refill it at least twice throughout the day. Your body (and brain) will thank you when it’s time to compete or teach.
Prioritise Rest and Recovery
Sleep can be elusive when you’re on the move—new environments, early starts, and long event days make it harder to get the rest your body needs. But recovery is non-negotiable for performance.
Recovery travel tips:
- Bring a neck pillow, sleep mask, and earplugs for flights or noisy hotels
- Use a sleep app or calming playlist to wind down at night
- Avoid caffeine too late in the day, even if you’re tired from travel
- Stretch or foam roll for 10–15 minutes before bed to ease tension
Schedule your downtime just like you would your training. Even a short 20-minute nap can reset your nervous system and keep you sharp for the next round.
Final Thoughts
Travelling as an instructor or athlete isn’t always glamorous, but it doesn’t have to be stressful either. With smart packing, gear protection from tools, and intentional recovery habits, you can stay ahead of the game—even when you’re miles from home.
The goal isn’t just to arrive—it’s to arrive ready. And when your travel is dialled in, you’re free to focus on what really matters: delivering your best performance, every single time.
