04/24/2025
Travel Smart: How to Lift and Carry Suitcases Safely 🧳
Planning a trip? As doctors who have been caring for spines and nervous systems for over 38 years, we've seen firsthand how travel-related injuries can sneak up on people — especially from lifting and carrying heavy luggage. Here are our top tips to keep your back safe while traveling:
✅ Lift with your legs, not your back
Bend your knees, keep the suitcase close to your body, and engage your core as you lift.
✅ Avoid twisting
Pivot with your feet instead of twisting at the waist when placing luggage in a car trunk or overhead bin.
✅ Use both hands
Distribute weight evenly and use two hands when possible — especially with awkwardly shaped or heavier bags.
✅ Pack smart
Choose lightweight suitcases with wheels and avoid overpacking. It’s easier (and safer) to handle two manageable bags than one oversized one.
✅ Stretch it out
Long flights and car rides tighten your muscles. Stand, stretch, and walk every hour to keep your body moving and reduce stiffness.
Your health shouldn’t take a vacation when you do. If you experience back pain, muscle tightness, or discomfort after traveling, We're here to help you feel your best — so you can get back to the life you deserve. ✈️
