There is really nothing like travel, enjoying new experiences, cultures and memories. But not all journeys to your destination are going to be relaxing. By recounting stories of flight delays to poor packing mishaps, you will soon learn how stress is a sure way to ruin your dream vacation. Luckily, there are a number of simple steps you can take to keep yourself chill and healthy amidst the chaos so that your trip is as carefree as it should be.
Embrace The Power Of Preparation
The backbone of stress free travel is preparation. But before you even step on the road make sure to plan some of these things before you start. Make a packing list specific to your destination that includes weather appropriate clothing, travel documents, and medications, plus anything else that you can’t travel without. This small step will ensure it’s one less thing to forget the night before.
Try to make use of technology. You can use apps to schedule your itinerary and track flights, and even look for health processes nearby. You also need to ensure that all your accommodation and transportation arrangements are confirmed far in advance. Knowing these things puts you in a position to relax and enjoy the journey.
Practice Mindful Packing
Adding more to your bag than you need can weigh down your trip. Bring along a heavy suitcase and you’ll find yourself physically tiring yourself and eventually getting frustrated when you need to queue for too long at crowded airports or train stations. Try wearing versatile clothing and travel with everything you need in a carry on bag with your essentials close by. Traveling light is free to move with ease and helps you prevent losing your luggage.
Packing essentials to make your journey more comfortable will guarantee a stress free journey. A neck pillow, snacks, a reusable water bottle, and good noise cancelling headphones will make for a much more comfortable travel experience both mentally and physically.
Prioritize Your Health
For stress free travel it is important to keep good health. Not only can long hours on planes and exposure to new environments disrupt your routines but your immune system will also become weakened. To combat this, hydrate yourself and eat right. Bring healthy snacks such as nuts, dried fruit or protein bars with you so you don’t depend on what’s available in an airport or convenience store.
If you are on a long flight or road trip, try including movement in your journey. Circulation and stiffness can be improved with simple stretches, walking down the airplane aisle, or stopping at rest stops. If you’re crossing time zones, try to gradually shift your sleeping schedule by a little bit each couple of days prior to departure to slash the impact jet lag will have on you. When looking for entertainment during your travels, platforms like Tube can offer a convenient way to unwind and enjoy a moment of relaxation.
Manage Stress With Mindfulness
Travel is often unpredictable, and disruptions are not uncommon (delayed flights, unpredictable weather, reservations lost). You can’t control these events, but you can control your reaction to them. Mindfulness is an incredible tool for keeping grounded in your day as challenges arise.
Breathing itself can do wonders when you feel stressed. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, do a few deep breaths: inhale for four counts and exhale for six. This practice calms your nervous system and helps you get your focus back. For travel, guided meditation is the way to go. Apps such as Calm or Headspace offer guided meditations that are perfect for travel and help you find a moment of peace, even when it seems crazy out there.
Cultivate Flexibility And Patience
As a traveler, one of the best things you can give yourself is the ability to adapt to change. Unexpected changes or delays on a trip are frustrating travel. By cultivating patience and flexibility, these challenges can be turned into opportunities for growth.
If your flight gets delayed, do something interesting at the airport, read a book, journal, or whatever! If your plans fall through, be reminded that a detour can take you on a chance adventure. Accepting the uncontrollable of travel can make for a much more compelling journey and something to talk about for years to come.
Stay Connected And Supported
Traveling can be lonely — especially if you’re many miles away from home or if you’re traveling by yourself. Being able to connect to loved ones can be comforting and security. Tell someone you trust your plans, periodically check-in, and when you need support, don’t hesitate to ask.
If you need any more peace of mind, be sure to invest in travel insurance. It’s an expense but it’s invaluable if you ever get sick, lose your things, or get your trips canceled. Being covered can take away a huge stresser.
Conclusion: Enjoy The Journey
Traveling stress free doesn’t mean you won’t have to deal with any challenges, it means you have the tools to deal with them stress free when they arise. With a little preparation, lighter packing, a focus on helping your health and your mind, it is possible to go with the flow and ride out the ups and downs of travel with some calm and grace.
The journey may be as important as the destination. Spend time really taking in the small things, like the big of a sunrise when you look out the window of your plane, how something tastes, and how someone shows you kindness. If you choose the proper mindset and methods, travelling could be stress free and genuinely transformative.
