Seasoned travellers are bombarded with advice on what to pack, from travel pillows to hand sanitiser. But one UK expert claims a simple, sporty item is the ultimate secret weapon for in-flight comfort.
The Surprising Carry-On Essential You Need
Xander Evitts, a personal trainer and osteopath with a master's degree, exclusively told the Daily Mail that he never boards a plane without a lacrosse ball in his hand luggage. This hard rubber ball, typically used in sport, doubles as a powerful self-massage tool to alleviate the stiffness and discomfort common on long journeys.
"I myself travel with a lacrosse ball," says Evitts, who has over 15 years of experience in fitness and pain management. He criticises many massage balls sold online, noting, "They're made of plastic and the problem with that is it doesn't grip your skin." The rubber construction of a lacrosse ball, however, provides the perfect grip to target tight muscles effectively.
Why Foam Rollers Don't Make the Cut
Evitts explains that while popular, foam rollers are impractical for travel. "First, it's not practical because it's humongous," he states. "Secondly, it's so big that when you try and release muscles that are smaller, you end up bumping into bones, and it's uncomfortable."
In contrast, the compact lacrosse ball is ideal for on-the-go use. "A little rubber ball is really handy to stick in your bag, especially if you know that you're prone to stiffness and tightness," Evitts advises. He uses it mid-flight to massage areas of discomfort, arguing that "being still" is the core problem during travel, not posture.
Other Non-Negotiable Items in His Bag
Alongside the lacrosse ball, Evitts has two other essential items. He always packs ibuprofen, calling it "an absolute no brainer" for its affordability and usefulness abroad when pharmacies might be closed.
His second key recommendation is Montmorency cherry juice extract in travel pouches. "Cherry juice is really good before bed. It's one of the most studied natural remedies that mimics the pathway of ibuprofen and anti-inflammatory," he explains. He highlights its benefits for reducing muscle soreness and aiding sleep, adding it's affordable, easy to find, and "really effective."
Evitts concludes by urging travellers to listen to their bodies and incorporate movement, comparing the need to move to feeling hunger pains. For those seeking comfort in the skies, his expert advice points to simple, proven solutions over gimmicks.
