If you’re like me, you’ll spend some time on the road or in the air this month. While I love traveling to see family and friends ““ and maybe a quick trip to the Caribbean! ““ luggage always weighs me down.
It can be especially difficult when my husband insists there are no circumstances in which checking baggage is appropriate. Whether I’m dragging my wheely bag through the airport or jamming everything into a shoulder bag, my back needs a break.
Here are nine tips I use to make sure my luggage doesn’t create back pain before I arrive at my destination:
- Purchase a sturdy, light piece of luggage with wheels and a handle.
- Pack lightly. When possible, pack items in a few smaller bags instead of one large luggage piece. Many airlines restrict carry-on luggage weighing more than 40 pounds.
- Stand next to your bag when you pick it up. Bend at your knees (not your waist), lift with your leg muscles, then grasp the handle and straighten up. Once you have lifted your luggage, hold it close to your body.
- Lift your bag onto the top of the seat before putting it in the overhead compartment. Then place your hands on the left and right sides of the suitcase and lift it up. If your luggage has wheels, make sure the wheel-side goes into the compartment first. Once the wheels are inside, put one hand on top of the luggage and push it to the back of the compartment.
- Avoid twisting your body when lifting or carrying luggage. Instead, point your toes in the direction you are headed, and then turn your entire body in that direction.
- Move carefully and purposefully when lifting or carrying a suitcase. If the bag is too heavy or an awkward shape, get help.
- Avoid carrying heavier pieces of luggage for long periods of time. If it is too heavy, check luggage when traveling rather than carrying it on ““ despite your spouse’s protests!
- Use a backpack with two padded and adjustable shoulder straps. Choose one with several compartments to secure various-sized items. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder does not allow weight to be distributed evenly, which can cause muscle strain.
- Carry ““ don’t drag ““ your luggage when climbing the stairs.
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