Ways to Work With Travel Anxiety

Travel anxiety can hinder anyone at any age and can seriously affect your trip — if you can even get yourself out the door. Sometimes it doesn’t matter the size of the group you’re traveling with, trip duration or even distance, struggling with anxiety and stress is all too common in our society. Beyond seeking medical attention, there are a few active and simple ways to try and ease you or your family’s travel anxiety before your next trip.

Did I Leave the Coffee Pot On?

Answer this question for yourself by going through the house taking photos of your electronics and various concern areas. By taking the time to go through your house or apartment checking each individual location and taking photos, you will take that extra step to ease your internal concern and even have the back-up photos to remind yourself you did it.

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Nervous Flyers

Make sure you download any podcasts, audiobooks, movies, shows and music you want before getting on the plane. Take some time a few days before your flight to go through your library and fill in any holes you notice well in advance of your trip. This way, you aren’t stressed last minute and boarding your flight without your entertainment back-up. Double-check pre-loaded entertainment and try to avoid any mentioning travel disasters. It may be an extra step, but the further you keep disaster from your mind, the better.

Type-A Planners

Researching your destination and creating a detailed itinerary can ease your mind. The more you know about your trip, the more prepared you feel to handle anything. Take screenshots of your most important documents, directions, hotel and flight confirmation and anything you need in case you don’t have internet access. Keep your most important items with you and separated into two different bags. Don’t check everything you need in one bag as you will feel much more in control if you have important items with you.

For The “What If?” Worriers

Just keep in mind even the best laid plans can go off course. Think of your itinerary as a list of options and try to keep to you and your family’s favorites without overwhelming everyone with overstimulation. Some aspects of travel cannot be controlled and it will be easier and more enjoyable in the long run if you go with the flow.

Take Some “Me” Time

Whether it’s waking up early to go for a run or finding a quiet corner to do a few breathing exercises, having some alone time can ease stress and anxiety instantly.

Upgrade for Comfort

You can always spring for PreCheck to cut TSA lines, or opt for first class on trains and planes when available. The added comfort, space and service can ease anxiety and elevate the trip.