Protect Your Feet During Holiday Travel: Tips from a Podiatrist

Holiday travel often involves long lines and a lot of walking through airports or transit centers. These activities can leave your feet sore and achy, but there are ways to keep them feeling their best. Try these tips for foot pain.

Now that the holiday season is officially here, you’re probably planning for upcoming travel. Visiting loved ones is a lot of fun, but long lines and days filled with walking can take a toll on your feet, especially if you have plantar fasciitis, bunions, or other underlying issues.

The good news is that foot pain isn’t something you have to accept. A few simple tips can keep your feet happy and pain-free, regardless of your holiday travel schedule.

Drs. Edward Buro, Christine Peterson, and Rosario Saccomanno at Mayfair Foot Care in Commack, New York, specialize in foot pain management. Here, they offer their top tips for keeping your feet healthy and comfortable during travel.

4 Ways to keep your feet happy during holiday trips

If you’re worried about travel-related foot pain, follow these simple tips:

1. Wear comfortable, supportive shoes

It can be tempting to wear your most stylish shoes when heading to the airport, but high heels or flats don’t provide adequate support for long days of standing and walking. While these styles may look fashionable, they often crowd the toes or lack padding, increasing the risk of blisters, calluses, and pain.

We recommend wearing breathable sneakers or walking shoes that provide plenty of cushion. This makes long days on your feet more manageable and reduces the risk of issues like arch and heel pain. If you need to bring a pair of dress shoes, pack them in your luggage and change when you arrive.

2. Keep moving (especially on long trips)

Long car and plane rides can affect circulation and increase swelling in your feet and ankles. Every hour or two, stand up, stretch, and, if possible, move around. If that’s not an option, try seated exercises. For example, ankle rolls or toe stretches can increase blood flow to your feet and reduce the risk of pain and cramping.

3. Pack smart

If you have a medical condition, such as diabetes or arthritis, we recommend packing a small bag for foot care. Items like blister pads, compression socks, moisturizing lotion, and nail clippers can help keep your feet comfortable, regardless of holiday plans.

Continue following your foot care routine at your destination. Inspect your feet daily for blisters or sores, keep them clean, and apply lotion as needed to prevent dryness and cracking.

4. Don’t ignore foot pain

Long days on your feet often lead to soreness or discomfort, but lasting pain isn’t normal. If your symptoms continue for more than a few days or occur alongside stiffness, redness, or numbness, get in touch as soon as possible. Prompt treatment can prevent the underlying issue from worsening and support your mobility.

We can help prepare your feet for holiday travel!

If you frequently experience foot pain during travel, we can help you prepare for the holiday season. After an exam and discussion of your symptoms, we can make personalized treatment recommendations to support your upcoming trip. Contact Mayfair Foot Care in Commack, New York, today to schedule an appointment or book your visit online.