When preparing for a flight, packing can be a challenging task. Passengers often focus on the essentials, such as clothes, toiletries, and entertainment.
However, one item that many people overlook is a simple tennis ball. Carrying a tennis ball in your carry-on luggage can offer various benefits that enhance your travel experience.
Why you should put a tennis ball in your carry-on luggage during flights?
It can help you relieve stress
Traveling can be stressful, especially during long flights. It can serve as a great stress-relief tool. Squeezing and rolling the ball in your hands can help release tension and provide a calming effect.
This simple exercise can distract you from any anxiety related to flying and help you feel more relaxed during your journey.
This small object can relieve muscle
Sitting in one position for an extended period can lead to muscle stiffness and discomfort.
A tennis ball can be used for self-massage to relieve tight muscles in your back, neck, and shoulders.
Physical therapist Peter Allan Schmitt recommends using a tennis ball during flights.
He states that it is the “perfect size” with just the right firmness for massaging different areas of the body.
A fitness trainer even suggests using two tennis balls, placed in a sock and positioned on the back to help release tension in the middle back.
According to Laura Coleman, this targeted massage can be very beneficial for those who are seated for long periods, especially on airplanes.
The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) has also released a guide on using tennis balls for trigger point release exercises to alleviate muscle tightness, such as in the calves.
Tennis balls can be small toys for kids
If you’re traveling with children, a tennis ball can be an excellent source of entertainment.
Kids can play catch with it in the airport or during layovers.
They can also serve as a fun toy during flight, keeping them engaged and reducing the likelihood of boredom.
When children are entertained, it makes the travel experience more enjoyable for everyone.
A tennis ball can enhance focus and concentration
This object can be a useful tool for improving focus and concentration, especially during long flights.
When you feel restless or unfocused, taking a few moments to toss the ball in the air or perform simple hand-eye coordination exercises can help refocus your mind.
This can be particularly helpful if you plan to read, watch a movie, or work on your laptop during the flight.
It is a cost-effective solution
It is an inexpensive item that offers numerous benefits.
Unlike specialized travel gadgets or expensive stress-relief products, a tennis ball is readily available and affordable.
You can easily find one at a local store or even borrow one from a friend.
Including it in your carry-on luggage won’t break the bank, making it a practical choice for travelers.
It is easy to pack
Another advantage of carrying a tennis ball is that it is lightweight and easy to pack.
You can simply toss it into your carry-on luggage without worrying about it taking up too much space.