Here are some tips to help prevent pain and injury while you are packing, loading up the vehicle and traveling to your destination.
Use a back support for the natural curve of your back while sitting in the car, your knees should be at the same level or higher than your hips
When loading the car with luggage, avoid twisting your back to put luggage in, make sure your feet are facing the direction you are lifting.
Bend your knees when you are bending to pick up travel needs, avoid bending at the waist with your knees straight
Hold luggage close to your body with your arms bent while carrying them
Make a pit stop every hour to stretch your legs, do standing back bends 5-10 times to help counteract the effects of sitting
If you are a passenger, use a neck pillow to support your neck while reading or sleeping
Happy Travels!!!
References:
North American Spine Society. 10 Tips for a Healthy Back ( 2016)
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Spine Conditioning Program PDF ( 2016)