Many of us become nervous before traveling. For some people, it’s just a mild feeling. However, others fall physically ill at the thought of traveling, whether it’s their first time traveling or not. Though some people resort to taking medicine as a fallback plan, there are more natural ways to ease your travel anxiety.
Traveling should be a pleasant experience, however, some people get knots in their stomachs when the feeling of traveling arrives. Whether its packing bags, leaving loved ones behind, thinking about the destination, or even worrying whether they might miss their flight, such people find a lot to worry about.
The good news is that you are not the only one who gets anxiety when you are about to travel. Thankfully, there is also a solution to this. In this post, we will show you some tips to help you overcome anxieties and fear before traveling.
Keep Your Mind On What Is Ahead
It’s quite easy to focus on the dog or spouse or children that you are leaving behind, but this does more harm than good. Instead, focus on what’s ahead. If you are going for a vacation, think of the beautiful things you are going to see and the memories you will create. Better still, download a book or a travel guide about your destination. This will help take your mind off what you are leaving behind and focus on what is yet to come.
Tell Friends About Your Travels
Have you ever noticed that the more you tell people about something, the more real it becomes? Some might question your decision, but this also gives you a perfect opportunity to defend your choice to travel. In other words, by doing so, it gives you the confidence to face your fears and take a leap.
Do Research About Where You Are Going
We can never stress this enough: traveling without a plan can turn out disastrous. As such, always make a list of the things you plan to do during your trip. This will help you reduce the risk of fear, and even the feeling of culture shock because you will have prepared your mind well in advance for what is to come. Furthermore, as you plan your travel, always pack at least a few days before your trip. This will help you avoid the last-minute rush.
Keep Reminding Yourself Why You Are Traveling
There is a reason why you have decided to travel, keep reminding yourself of this often. And by the way, it is never that serious; you need to keep telling yourself that in case of anything, your family and friends are only a flight away. If you feel you can’t handle the pressure, you can always come back, it is never that serious.
Identify What Exactly Is Causing The Anxiety
Is it your family that you are leaving behind? Is it a long flight? What is it that’s causing this anxiety? After identifying the reason, go back to the drawing board and make a plan. If it is leaving your family, make plans to facetime them when you get to your destination and check in often. Every time this bad felling crops in, remind yourself that you are going to have fun, and nothing can stop that.
Learn To Step Out Of Your Comfort Zone
Start slowly and step out of your comfort zone. Whether it’s just going for a solo hike, taking an overnight trip, or camping in the rain, do something out of your routine. Think of something you hate doing on your own and just do it. This will help prepare for what is ahead. It also helps you learn to face specific challenges head-on alone, thus preparing you for your trip.
Remember To Breathe
While this might sound cliché, it’s a valid point to consider. After everything is said and done, take some time and breathe before you step out. Take your time and never feel pressured to do anything. If you are still worried, which is healthy by the way, take time, and reflect on your past experiences when you felt this way. Then, think about what happened after that? Reflect on how you have overcome situations in the past.
Make Connections
Do you have old friends in the area you are traveling to? Do you know a friend of a friend who can take you around and offer logistics about the place? Locals always know the perfect spots and they always come in handy in case you are stuck. Having a connection in the area may help ease your anxiety about traveling.
Do What Makes You Happy
If you are not comfortable sleeping in a hostel, then don’t do it. Instead, look for an affordable hotel. There is no need to force habits that will later make you regret your decision or even make you uncomfortable during your trip. Take your time until you feel ready to step out of your comfort zone. You can start by signing up for a tour; this will help you get to meet other travelers and build your confidence in the long run.
Bottom Line
If you have anxiety issues before traveling, we hope you find these tips helpful. Don’t be hard on yourself and always remember to take one day at a time. Regardless, we wish you a safe trip.
