In Australia. July/August, is called Christmas in July. The reason we call it Christmas in July is because it is cold, Australians can drink egg nog and really enjoy what christmas should really feel like in the northern hemisphere. In England, August is the month to travel, where Londoners pretty much “evacuate” this town.

When we travel we often make the most of the “carry on” only option as airfares are cheaper.
Patients can often come into the clinic with acute lower back pain or feeling that their body “feels twisted” from carrying bags on one side. Or patients can often experience neck and shoulder pain after two weeks of carrying a massive 15 – 20 kg backpack.

In my opinion and from my experience traveling, the worst thing one person can do is to carry a duffel bag (10kgs) on the shoulder, throught the tube from the house to the airport to the hotel. Second worst option is to carry a backpack constantly for 2 hours, without rest breaks.

My tips on traveling over the summer:
If you are carry 10 – 12kgs – invest in a wheelie suitcase, especially ones with 4 wheels. (Yes you have to carry them up and down stairs, or even better, use the lift), but your shoulders and neck will thank you for it. Make sure you brace your abdominals when lifting the suitcase.

If carry a backpack – make sure you set it down regularly (beware of thieves)

If you carry a duffel bag, regularly swap sides. A heavy duffel bag can place stress on your shoulder joint and the neck if carried on one side for a prolonged period.

These are my tips and pointers as a physiotherapist from traveling across europe. I hope you enjoy your August break y’all!

SAM LING – PHYSIOTHERAPIST – WIMPOLE ST