Summer’s calling… and your body? It’s logging miles, hiking trails, chasing kids, and maybe… regretting that last rollercoaster. Whether you’re hitting the beach, the mountains, or Main Street USA, don’t forget your recovery gear. We’ve rounded up 5 MVP tools that travel well and keep you moving all summer long. Without further ado, lets get into our top 5 muscle recovery tools for travel!
Our Considerations
When choosing our top muscle recovery tools, we decided to keep a few things in mind. We wanted to consider versatility, size, weight, and price. Keeping that in mind, we have a pretty well rounded group of recovery tools that will help you make the most of your travel this year and for years to come!
1. Normatec Go
Portable compression sleeves for tired legs
These are game-changers for anyone flying, hiking, or walking all day.
Pros:
✅ Super compact—fits in your carry-on
✅ Rechargeable and wireless
✅ Calf-only design = targeted relief
✅ Great for post-hike legs or long flights
Cons:
❌ Only works on calves (no quads or hips)
❌ Pricey if you’re just dabbling
❌ Needs charging after 3–4 uses
Our take:
If your summer plans include marathons, long flights, —or marathon theme park days—these are worth their weight in gold! Plus if you’re a little worried about DVT for long flights, these are an excellent way to help boost circulation in your lower extremities.
2. Hypervolt Go 2
Mini massage gun with major impact
This is the tool we throw in the bag without even thinking. That being said if you’re used to bigger and heavier percussion therapy instruments it might not pack enough punch!
Pros:
✅ Small but mighty
✅ Quieter than most massage guns
✅ Multiple head attachments
✅ Great for full body
Cons:
❌ TSA may inspect it (it looks like a power tool)
❌ Not great for super tight spaces (like mid-back)
❌ Can feel bulky in an already full backpack
Our take:
Perfect for road trips, hotels, or winding down after standing in 3-hour lines.
3. Sidekick Echo Muscle Scraper
Muscle scraping that fits in your pocket
This is our smallest but most versatile tool that can come anywhere with you.
Pros:
✅ Lightweight and flat—super travel friendly
✅ Feels amazing on just about everything
✅ Easy to clean, no batteries or apps
✅ Durable metal—no worries about it breaking
Cons:
❌ Takes a little practice
❌ You’ll want emollient or lotion to use it
Our take:
This is our go-to for travel days, hiking legs, and sore feet. Small but mighty.
4. Lacrosse Ball
Simple, cheap, and always effective
Old school but still a classic.
Pros:
✅ Costs less than a latte
✅ Fits in any bag
✅ Amazing for feet, glutes, traps, and calves
✅ No batteries. No screens. Just pressure.
Cons:
❌ Can roll away mid-use (hello hotel room chase)
❌ Not for people who hate deep pressure
❌ Hard to use on your own back
Our take:
It’s so simple, light, and cheap. If it gets lost you won’t be that sad… Bonus: you can use it while waiting for your flight.
5. Venom 2 Back by Hyperice
Heat and vibration for your low back
This one’s for road warriors and anyone who spends too long sitting.
Pros:
✅ Soothing heat + vibration = back bliss
✅ Adjustable fit
✅ Works well in cars or on planes
✅ Great for back spasms or tension
Cons:
❌ Bigger than you’d expect
❌ Needs to be charged
❌ Pricey, especially if you only use it occasionally
Our take:
Back pain on vacation is the worst… This helps prevent it before it ruins your plans.
Preparation is Key!
Summer travel doesn’t have to mean stiff joints and sore muscles. Bring the muscle recovery tools that support your adventures! Proper recovery is what lets you keep saying yes—to hikes, rides, and “just one more hour.” Need help figuring out which tools are best for your kind of trip? Send us a message or pop by the office! We’ll help you pack smarter, move better, and recover faster—no matter where summer takes you.
