Nasai

(1) In this narration, there is an error in the chain of transmission; that is, narrating it from Sa‘id ibn al-Musayyib as mursal is a mistake. The correct version is with the mention of the Companion.

(2) This narration is brief, therefore there could be a misunderstanding that perhaps fasting while traveling is not good, whereas the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) himself used to fast during travel. The noble Companions (radi Allahu anhum) also used to fast in his presence while traveling. In reality, this narration has a specific context, and that is when fasting becomes extremely difficult for the traveler and the fasting person becomes a burden and hardship for others, so that others have to look after him and his tasks—then such a fast is indeed not a virtue. However, if the traveler finds it easy and the fasting person can bear it, manages his own tasks, and does not become a cause of trouble or burden for others, then for such a person, fasting while traveling is not only permissible but superior. There is an indication towards this in the next chapter and hadith. In short, whichever situation is easier and more comfortable for a person, adopting that is superior. For further details, see: (Dhakheerat al-‘Uqba Sharh Sunan al-Nasa’i: 21/134-141)