Equestrian Travel Abroad: 5 Tips for a Smooth Ride
By Jessica Abrahamse
Traveling to another country on a riding trip is an exciting adventure, however it can feel overwhelming. In this blog, I'll share my travel experience as someone who has done extensive traveling overseas to ride, and offer some helpful tips for adventure seeking riders.
1. Time zone changes and preparation: Do your research in advance of traveling to a new destination to understand how much of a difference there will be. Consume electrolytes the day before traveling as air travel is notorious for being dehydrating. I recommend traveling a day or two in advance prior to starting your riding experience, as your body will need a few days to adjust to the new time zone. If you can walk outside barefoot on some grass, this has a grounding effect and can help your body adjust to the new time zone. For the flight, download your favorite podcasts, grab a few good books, and an airline pillow and eye mask. Pro tip: carry some hand lotion to combat the dry air on the airplane.
2. Pack appropriately: Look at the seven day weather forecast in advance for the area, and google what weather is typical for that time of year. Pack several pairs of breeches, socks, base layers, and a few just case items, like a rain jacket or really warm sweater - this will save you if unexpected weather shows up. Find out in advance what will be provided and what won't in terms of tack and equipment so you can be prepared. If you can, a large backpack with space for a helmet is a great space efficient way to bring your gear without taking up a ton of space and being fairly easy to transport. Wearing your paddock boots on the plane and packing half chaps also saves space.
3. Find out about the food situation: If you have any food restrictions, strong preferences etc. it is good to do a Google search of the area your will be visiting and get a sense of the types of food that will be available. The venue should have some idea of the foods that will be served. Pro tip: bring protein bars or food items that travel well that can provide quick sustenance should you get hungry outside of meals - for example if you are doing more exercise than you are used to.
4. Make no assumptions: It is important that even if you have a particular idea about the weather or food in a certain area that you take time to research and learn the facts so you can adequately prepare yourself for the environment. Also find out if you need specific shots and if there are any regional diseases to be mindful of. Bringing pain relievers and antacids are a good idea in case you need them.
5. Don't forget to stretch: After spending several hours in a plane, then preparing for rigorous activity, it is important to help your body by stretching before and after activity. Stretching will get your circulation working effectively, and by warming up your muscles it can help to prevent injuries. You still may feel some soreness from riding horses that are different than the ones you usually ride.
