Experts predicted that travel would be hectic this summer and fall, and boy, they weren’t kidding. Whether vacationing or resuming business travel, you’ve had to deal with high gas prices and delayed, if not entirely canceled flights, among other stressful issues. Check out these FSA, HSA, and LSA eligible expenses that can help ease travel stress.
1. Pack Those Medications
Do you have enough prescription medication with you to treat existing conditions if you get stranded somewhere? How about health issues that can pop up, like digestive distress, muscle strains, and headaches? Use your FSA or HSA account to refill prescriptions and stock up on OTC medications before leaving on your trip. It’s also a good idea to keep prescription information on hand in case of an emergency.
2. Bring a First Aid Kit
Taking along a basic first aid kit can help take care of small accidents, especially if you have kids. Include a supply of bandages, antiseptic ointment, and pain relievers. First-aid kits, digestive aids, and similar products are FSA- and HSA-eligible.
3. Pack some PPE
COVID-19 is still prevalent and if you visit a high-risk area, you may have difficulty finding personal protective equipment (PPE) in local stores. Be sure to pack some face masks and hand sanitizer, both of which are eligible expenses for FSAs and HSAs.
4. Stay Active
Even on a pure-relaxation vacation, making time for simple exercise like morning or evening walks will help you feel your best. Make sure you have a good pair of walking shoes or sneakers. They may be covered by your employer-sponsored wellness benefits or Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA).
5. Fight Off Jet Lag
Is your destination in another time zone? Your body may need to adjust to the new hours. With your usual sleep pattern disturbed, you may also need help to get back on track. Use your FSA or HSA for eligible expenses such as sleep aids, eye masks, ear plugs, and OTC medications. Some LSAs cover sleep apps, too.
6. Block Those Rays
The summer sun is very strong and you already know how important it is to wear appropriate sunscreen. But did you know that protecting your eyes is also very important? Use your FSA or HSA account for sunscreen and prescription sunglasses.
7. Stay Calm and Relaxed
Travel issues like flight cancellations or getting lost in an unfamiliar location create lots of stress. Some people can benefit from using meditation apps or visiting a yoga or meditation studio in these situations. Check to see if these expenses are covered, at least partially, by your employer-sponsored wellness benefits or LSA account.
Travel can be a wonderful experience, but the stress that may come with it is not! Put your benefit accounts to work for you to help ease common travel woes by leveraging eligible expenses for your FSA, HSA, or LSA accounts.
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