Travelling can be a great way to unwind and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. However, for yoga enthusiasts, travelling can sometimes disrupt their daily yoga routine. To keep up with your practice while on the go, it's essential to invest in a travel yoga mat that is lightweight and portable. In this article, we'll explore whether travel yoga mats are worth it, the factors you should consider when buying your next travel yoga mat and all other things to know about travel yoga mats.

Are Travel Yoga Mats Worth It?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's needs and preferences. Travel yoga mats are designed to be lightweight and portable, making them easy to pack in a suitcase or carry-on bag. They also provide a clean and comfortable surface for practicing yoga, even in unfamiliar settings. However, if you only travel occasionally or practice yoga infrequently, a travel mat may not be worth the investment. On the other hand, if you're a frequent traveler or a dedicated yogi, a travel mat can be a worthwhile investment to maintain your practice while on the go.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Travel Yoga Mat

1. Thickness: A thicker mat provides more cushioning for joints and is more comfortable for longer practice sessions. However, thicker mats tend to be heavier and less portable.
2. Material: Look for a mat made of lightweight materials like rubber, cork, or PVC. These materials provide good grip and are easy to clean.
3. Size: Choose a mat that is small enough to fit in your luggage but large enough to provide enough space for your practice.
4. Weight: Look for a mat that is lightweight and easy to carry. Mats made of natural materials like rubber and cork tend to be heavier than those made of synthetic materials.
5. Durability: Look for a mat that is durable and can withstand frequent use and travel.
6. Price: Travel yoga mats can range in price from $20 to $100. Consider how often you will use the mat and how important it is to have a high-quality mat when making your purchase.
7. Eco-friendliness: If you're environmentally conscious, look for a mat made from sustainable materials like cork or natural rubber.

A travel yoga mat can be a valuable investment for frequent travelers or dedicated yogis. When choosing a travel mat, consider factors like thickness, material, size, weight, durability, price, and eco-friendliness. With the right travel mat, you can maintain your yoga practice no matter where your travels take you.

Let’s discuss how to store and clean a travel yoga mat, whether folding a yoga mat during travel causes wear and tear, how to fold a yoga mat for travel, and if you can take a yoga mat on a plane.

How to Store a Travel Yoga Mat

Storing a travel yoga mat can be easy if you follow some simple tips. Firstly, avoid storing your mat in damp or humid areas as this can lead to mold and mildew. Instead, keep your mat in a dry and cool place. Secondly, roll up your mat and store it in a bag or cover to protect it from dust and dirt. Some travel yoga mats come with a carrying bag, but if yours doesn't, you can purchase a separate bag. Finally, avoid storing your mat in direct sunlight as this can cause the material to deteriorate.

How to Clean a Travel Yoga Mat

Photo: NYT

A travel yoga mat can quickly accumulate dirt, sweat, and bacteria from your travels, making it essential to clean it regularly. Cleaning your travel yoga mat not only helps to maintain its longevity, but it also ensures proper hygiene during your yoga practice. Here are some steps to follow when cleaning your travel yoga mat:

1. Gather cleaning supplies: You will need a cleaning solution, a sponge or a cloth, and water. You can either make your cleaning solution or purchase a pre-made yoga mat cleaner. If you're making your cleaning solution, mix water and a few drops of dish soap or white vinegar.
2. Lay out the mat: Place the travel yoga mat on a flat surface and unfold it entirely. Ensure that the mat is free from any debris or dirt.
3. Apply the cleaning solution: Spray the cleaning solution evenly across the mat's surface or apply it with a damp sponge or cloth. Avoid using too much water as it may take a long time to dry.
4. Scrub the mat: Using the sponge or cloth, gently scrub the mat's surface to remove any dirt, sweat, or bacteria. Pay special attention to the areas where you place your hands and feet, as these areas are more prone to collecting sweat and bacteria.
5. Rinse the mat: Rinse the mat thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining soap or cleaning solution. Ensure that all soap residue is removed from the mat.
6. Dry the mat: Wipe the mat with a clean, dry cloth or hang it up to air dry. Avoid exposing the mat to direct sunlight, as this may cause the mat's material to degrade.

Some Tips to Consider When Cleaning Your Travel Yoga Mat

• Clean your mat after every use to maintain proper hygiene.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as bleach, on your yoga mat as it may damage the mat's material.
• If you're using a pre-made yoga mat cleaner, read the manufacturer's instructions before use.
• If you don't have a cleaning solution, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the mat's surface.
• Avoid using a washing machine or a dryer to clean your travel yoga mat as this may damage the mat's material.

Does Folding Yoga Mats While Travelling Cause Wear and Tear?

Folding a yoga mat while travelling does not necessarily cause wear and tear if done correctly. However, folding your mat the wrong way can cause creases and damage the material over time. To prevent this, fold your mat gently and avoid folding it in the same spot repeatedly. Alternatively, you can roll up your mat and secure it with straps or a bag.

How to Fold a Yoga Mat for Travel

If you're a yoga enthusiast who loves to travel, you know how challenging it can be to carry a bulky yoga mat around. Fortunately, there are travel yoga mats that are lightweight, portable, and easy to pack in your luggage. And when it comes to packing your yoga mat for travel, folding it properly is key to ensure it stays in good shape and takes up minimal space in your luggage.

Step 1 - Clean Your Yoga Mat: Before folding your yoga mat for travel, it's important to clean it thoroughly to get rid of any dirt, sweat, or bacteria that may have accumulated on it during your yoga practice. Use a gentle yoga mat cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar to wipe down your mat with a clean cloth. Allow it to air dry completely before folding it.

Step 2 - Roll Up Your Yoga Mat: Start by rolling up your yoga mat as you normally would, with the top of the mat facing out. Make sure it's tightly rolled to avoid any bulges or creases.

Step 3 - Fold the Mat in Half: Once your yoga mat is tightly rolled, fold it in half lengthwise, so that the two ends meet. You may need to gently press down on the fold to get it to lay flat.

Step 4 - Fold the Mat in Half Again: Next, fold the mat in half widthwise, so that the two folded ends meet. Again, you may need to gently press down on the fold to get it to lay flat.

Step 5 - Secure the Folded Mat: Finally, use a yoga strap or a piece of string to secure the folded mat. You can tie it tightly around the middle of the mat to keep it from unfolding during travel. Alternatively, some travel yoga mats come with their own straps or bags for easy transport.

How to Travel with a Yoga Mat

Travelling with a yoga mat can be easy if you plan ahead. Firstly, choose a lightweight and portable travel yoga mat that fits in your luggage or backpack. Secondly, pack your mat in a carrying bag or cover to protect it from damage. Finally, check with your airline if you can bring your mat on the plane as a carry-on or if you need to check it in as luggage.

Can You Take a Yoga Mat on a Plane? 

Yes, you can take a yoga mat on a plane. However, whether you can bring it as a carry-on or checked-in luggage depends on your airline's policy. Some airlines allow yoga mats as carry-on items, while others require them to be checked in as luggage. Check with your airline's baggage policy before you travel to avoid any surprises at the airport.

In conclusion, travelling with a yoga mat is easy if you follow some simple tips. Store your mat in a dry and cool place, clean it after each use, fold it gently to prevent damage, and pack it in a carrying bag or cover. Remember to check with your airline's baggage policy before you travel to ensure that you can bring your mat on the plane. With these tips, you can maintain your yoga practice and stay relaxed while travelling.