My Pre- & Post-Trip Routine

Small Rituals That Keep Travel Running Smoothly

Julia here—sharing the checklist I’ve honed after countless flights and family adventures. A bit of prep on the front end (and a few smart moves once we’re home) saves time, energy, and sanity.

Before We Go

Fresh pedicure
One of my non-negotiables is getting a fresh pedicure before a trip. Between sandals, beach days, and lots of walking, I want to feel polished and put together. I had my go to spot near our last house but would love a Charleston recommendation if you have one.

Return run-through
Anything destined for a return label gets handled before we head out. Clearing those packages means I don’t come home to cardboard chaos.

Snack strategy
We load a tote with gluten-free staples: dried fruit, protein bars, and electrolyte powders (watermelon is our family’s favorite). Every trip we bring a couple different bags of Catalina Crunch. It keeps everyone’s blood sugar—and mood—steady from gate to gate.

First-aid refresh
We go through our travel first aid kit, refreshing Band-Aids, face and body sun protection, and medicines. It's a small thing that ends up being a lifesaver when you need it.

Supplement stack
I'll double down on my vitamins (multi, omegas, creatine, aminos) and keep up with my Seed probiotic daily. Staying consistent before, during, and after travel helps keep digestion and bloating in check.

Deadline sweep
Anything with a hard deadline gets tackled before we leave. There's nothing worse than trying to enjoy yourself while stressing about unfinished tasks.

Dawn workouts
5:30 A.M. workouts wrap before business hours, preserving the entire day for deadlines, content reviews, and last-minute packing.

Sakara Level II Detox
A few days before the trip, I like to do Sakara’s Level II Detox. It doesn’t feel anything like a cleanse— it’s fulfilling, organic, plant-based meals that keep me energized without needing to plan every meal. Plus, it clears up my schedule and my mind so I’m not scrambling at the last minute. You can use my 20% off discount code (JULIABSAKARA) at Sakara.

Once We’re Back

Grocery order, in-flight
Usually on the flight home, we’re already placing a grocery delivery order. Having essentials waiting for us means one less thing to worry about when we land.

More Sakara
After trips, especially if there’s been more indulgent eating or drinking, having Sakara’s meals on hand is huge. It's healthy, easy, and exactly what my body needs to reset without extra effort.

Suitcases empty by sundown
Everything gets sorted—laundry started, dry cleaning bagged, suitcases stashed—within 24 hours. Future-me is always grateful.

Early lights-out, early alarm
I slide bedtime up and book my usual 5–6 A.M. workout. A familiar rhythm fights jet lag better than any supplement.

Calendar buffer
The first two workdays stay meeting-light so I can triage inboxes, photo edits, and creative planning without feeling buried.

Travel should recharge, not derail. A few deliberate rituals—before and after—keep the adventure at the center and the chaos at bay.

x Julia