5 Essential Oils for Travel

Taking a trip is often an exciting time to explore new places and things, and one that you and your family have planned and looked forward to for some time. To get the most out of your trip, it’s important to prepare for the unexpected. Consider adding a little ‘trip insurance’ to your already overstuffed bag by packing a mini essential oil kit. Keep reading for my top 5 oils to include.

Sunburn, bug bites, and fatigue are common experiences when traveling. A small collection of inexpensive essential oils can provide great relief from these vacation-derailing events. Using the oils is simple. There’s no special equipment needed - you can inhale the oil from a tissue or cotton ball, or even add a few drops to a warm bath for quick and gentle relief. (Bonus points if you travel with a small spray bottle - this can be used to spray your room, your linens or even yourself.)

1. Peppermint Oil

Peppermint is one of my go-to oils when I need a mental or physical pick-me-up! Its uplifting scent is just what the doctor ordered if you are looking to supercharge your energy, your spirit, or your day. 

For a morning eye-opener (or any time you need an energy boost), mix equal parts of peppermint and eucalyptus oils. Placing just a drop or two on a cotton ball in the car or near your seat will release the aroma into your surroundings. It can be energizing to a tired driver or passenger. Inhaling peppermint oil when you feel nauseous has also been shown to improve symptoms and have you feeling better quickly. Just be careful not to get it on any sensitive areas of the skin, such as directly under the nose, or near the eyes, as this can cause serious irritation. 

2. Lavender Oil

Lavender has been called “a medicine chest in a bottle” due to its wide range of effects. Placing a few drops on a tissue or cotton ball can help reduce travel anxiety by relaxing the mind and body. It can even be used in combination with peppermint and eucalyptus oils to help relieve jet lag.

Lavender is also useful for bug bites and stings, as well as treating surface scrapes because of its anti-inflammatory, mild antibacterial, and skin-regenerative properties. Just place a little undiluted oil on the affected area, or mix in equal parts with tea tree oil and place on a band-aid to help ward off infection.

Lastly, lavender comes in handy at bedtime. Simply add a few drops to a bath or dilute with a carrier oil (such as coconut, almond, olive or jojoba oil), for a bedtime massage.

3. Bergamot Oil

Bergamot is one of my favorite oils. It is an awesome oil for relief if you are feeling nervous, down or stressed. It’s uplifting, energizing and smells amazing making it perfect for freshening up a stuffy room. Bergamot also has antibiotic and disinfectant properties which can come in handy while traveling.

Bonus: Add a couple of drops of bergamot oil to the toilet bowl before doing your 'business' to keep the room fresh (you’re welcome! ). 

4. Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus has a great range of uses as well. It can cool the body when too hot, and protect it when too cold. It is found in almost all formulas used to relieve congestion, can support circulation, and bring lightness to a travel-weary head.

Eucalyptus oil can be used like peppermint to uplift and invigorate during long periods of travel. It can be added to a cool bath or used on a cold compress in cases of heat exhaustion and used in a similar manner to reduce fever.

To relieve congestion, add 1 drop of eucalyptus, 3 drops of bergamot and 2 drops of tea tree oil to a warm bath. Soak and breathe deeply, or simply add a few drops to a steaming bowl of water and inhale.

5. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is perfect to use if you find yourself suffering from sinus or congestion of any kind. Beneficial properties include anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antimicrobial to purify indoor air quality. It’s perfect for insect bites, sunburn, cuts and scrapes as well. Doing any outdoor activities on your travels? Tea tree oil is one of the best essential oils that works as an mosquito repellent.

Bonus: Sage Oil 

Sage has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. But just like you may burn sage at home, you can cleanse your space while away (and without the mess). Add a few drops to a spray bottle filled with distilled water. The spray can be used to freshen your linens, yourself or the air. You can also place a damp cloth or towel on the heating unit or fan to diffuse throughout the room. 

These are just a few examples of ways to make your travel experiences more enjoyable with aromatherapy. With a little effort, you can expand your knowledge of these oils, discover other ways to use them, and discover other oils that work well for your needs.

Summary of uses

• Energy/jet lag: Peppermint, Lavender, Eucalyptus, Bergamot
• Nausea: Peppermint 
• Allergy/congestion: Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Tea Tree
• Fever/heat exhaustion: Eucalyptus
• Bug bites, cuts, scrapes, sunburn: Lavender, Tea Tree 
• Insect Repellent*: Tea Tree, Lavender, Eucalyptus, Peppermint
• Air freshener: Lavender, Bergamot, Sage
• Relaxation: Lavender

At Elevated Calm, we offer 100% pure therapeutic grade essential oils, selected for their exceptional aromatic profiles, as well as their quality and purity. 

The information provided is general and should not be taken as medical advice. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician before using. Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas.