A Guide to Maintaining Your Yoga Practice While Traveling
Whether you're off to a sun-drenched retreat, exploring a new city, or simply navigating your daily commute, your yoga mat is more than just a piece of equipment—it's a vital tool for centering your mind. However, it defeats the purpose if it becomes a burden to carry.
Here's how to pack what you need effortlessly and smartly.
Step 1: Choose the Best Mat for You
Not all yoga mats are suitable for travel. Whether you plan to fold it into a suitcase or carry it over your shoulder, it's essential to choose a mat that firmly supports your yoga practice while naturally blending into your daily life.
Fortunately, we offer four types of travel mats to suit various needs.
Our Recommended Lineup:
- PRO Travel Yoga Mat: A compact version of the classic PRO series. Despite its portable size, it offers excellent stability and durability (backed by a lifetime guarantee).
- eKO Superlite Yoga Mat: Features a non-slip surface, comfortable for use alone or layered over a rental mat. Perfect for minimalist travel.
- Shala Yoga Rug: A soft, easy-to-roll, traditionally hand-woven yoga rug that can be easily carried anywhere.
- GRP Travel Yoga Mat: Non-slip even when sweaty, offering grip from the first use. Ideal for hot yoga on the go.
Find the perfect travel mat for you.
Shop Travel Mats Here >>>
Step 2: Clean Your Mat Before Packing
Before you take your mat on a trip (and after you return), take a moment to reset it. Especially after a class, gently wipe your mat with a mild cleaner and a cloth. After a sweaty practice, it's crucial to let it dry completely before putting it in your bag. This will prolong your mat's life, prevent odors from lingering in your luggage, and ensure you can practice clean and comfortably as soon as you arrive.
Shop Mat Care Products Here >>>
Shop Yoga Towels Here >>>
Step 3: Fold or Roll as Needed
How you store your mat depends on how you carry it and its intended use. Manduka's travel mats can be either folded or rolled, so choose the method that suits you best. In both cases, the key is to store it as simply as possible.
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Fold into a square to fit into carry-on luggage or a backpack
This keeps it flat and compact, making it easy to carry. -
Roll tightly from top to bottom
Roll with the practice side (top) facing outwards to help the mat lie flat easily when unrolled.
Step 4: Prepare Useful Accessories
If you have extra space, it's a good idea to bring a towel and a strap. These small items can significantly enhance your comfort while traveling.
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Yoga Rugs/Towels:
They help prevent slipping and absorb sweat, and can also provide extra cushioning when used over rental mats or unfamiliar floors in studios. Additionally, they are versatile enough to be used as beach towels or face towels, so you won't have to worry about overpacking.
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Yoga Straps:
Useful for carrying your mat and also as a support tool to deepen your poses on the go. They can also help consolidate small items in your bag or keep an outfit together.
These are small items that contribute to your comfort, helping you maintain a stable rhythm wherever you are.
Step 5: Unroll Your Mat and Reset
Once you arrive, unroll or unfold your mat and let it sit for a while. After a few minutes, any creases or wrinkles should naturally smooth out. Just like your body, your mat needs time to adjust to its new environment.
Then, take a slow, deep breath.
You've made it here safely. And now, your yoga practice can begin.
Summary
No matter where you're headed, your yoga mat isn't just something you carry; it's a sanctuary you can always return to. With a little mindfulness and proper preparation, your yoga practice can move freely with you, always ready to begin!
