Christina (aka Tinx) and I have been friends for years — we first connected over Hashimoto’s and have run into each other ever since at countless NYC and Hamptons moments. She’s smart, funny, and always moving. Since we’re both constantly on the go, it only made sense to sit down and talk plane snacks, hydration, and staying balanced while traveling.

We compared what we actually pack for flights — I played big sister, steering her toward cleaner swaps and away from the daily Diet Cokes. From electrolytes (too sweet for me) to coffee routines and what to skip in the airport aisle, it’s about small choices that make travel feel better — not perfect, just better.

WHAT WE PACKED

• Crunch: good chips (potato chips, tortilla, plantain), seaweed with olive or avocado oil.

• Sweet: organic dried mango — nothing added.

• Backups: BTR Nation or Jones bars, quality meat sticks.

• Heat: mini Tía Lupita hot sauces — clean and perfect in a bag.

• Hydration: water, always — filtered or glass when possible. I skip the sweet electrolyte mixes.

MY TIPS

• Skip sparkling waters and drinks with “natural flavors.” They cause bloat and cravings.

• Stick to filtered or glass water — clean and simple.

• Morning routine: alkaline greens or lemon water, then coffee with marine collagen, coconut sugar, and cinnamon.

• No dairy for me (Hashimoto’s), but do what works for you.

• Choose additive-free tequila over sugary cocktails — moderation wins.

• Tinx loves Diet Coke; I’m pushing lemon water first.

• Pack something clean so you’re not stuck mid-flight.