Traveling can be a relatively stressful experience especially if you're unprepared. Transport delays, increased security, and lost luggage can cause tension and emotional turmoil. Whether you've traveling abroad or having a staycation, the following tips can help make your travel plans a lot easier to handle.
1 | Take Care Of Your Body
Before you travel make sure to get quality sleep, eat well, stay hydrated, take vitamins, and learn a few stress relieving techniques. Taking care of your body should be a priority especially when traveling, which can put a stain on your body and mind. Nothing is more stressful during travel than coming down with an illness right before the big day. Invest in self-care, take care of yourself, and you'll find you'll be in a more positive mental space when it comes to dealing with travel stress.
2 | Save Important Details
Figure out your travel plans to and from your destination ahead of time; save maps and directions to your phone, and photograph important documents such as your passport and insurance documents as back-up copies. If you're taking a camera, photograph your contact details in case you lose it; whoever finds it may use those details to return it to you. Having all your important travel plans and documents stored together and backed-up will give you peace of mind while traveling.
3 | Write A Packing List
Don't try to commit to memory everything you need to pack for your vacation. Write a master list of every item you want to take from clothing and accessories right down to electronics and toiletries. Having a packing list makes prepping for a holiday so much easier and almost entirely stress-free. You can use the list as a reference check off items you've already packed, and it will remind you of any last minute items you need to include. Save it to your phone and you've got a checklist for the return journey.
4 | Do An Idiot Check
An 'idiot check' is one last sweep of each room to make sure everyone has everything they need. The most obvious necessaries can easily to overlooked in the anticipation and excitement of holiday preparation. When you're preparing to travel there are a few items, like keys, wallets, and phone, that often get left out of your bags; going back for a last minute thorough check will make sure you don't leave without them.
5 | Think Positive
Delays happen and mistakes occur. If you encounter a bump in the road, remember that being optimistic and thinking positive will make dealing with these issues a whole lot easier. Having a few quick stress relievers on hand can deescalate a situation if you feel yourself becoming stressed and emotional. Try breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, hold a comforting object, get fresh air if you can, and keep hydrated. If you're in an overcrowded airport, your flight is delayed, or you've forgotten something; breathe deep, find a solution, and stay positive.
6 | Don't Rush
Travellers are often in a rush to get to and from their destination as fast as possible, which can make the whole experience stressful and tense. Give yourself plenty of time either side of your travel plans to grab a drink, eat some food, or have a little down time. Don't leave everything to the last minute, like arriving at the airport, so you can take things slowly and go at a more comfortable pace. It will make your entire journey far more enjoyable.
