For some individuals, sleep gets elusive in the days that precede travel. This is one of the major symptoms of pre-travel anxiety. Other symptoms of pre-travel anxiety include muscle tension, headaches, and stomach upset. Some people even lose appetite and others stress eat. If you have difficulties dealing with pre-travel anxiety, here are some of the ways you can ease the symptoms.
What you’re afraid of regarding the trip? Once you’ve figured out what makes you anxious about travel, determine whether you have a real fear. Even when the worst-case scenario can be something catastrophic, determine if there is a likelihood of the occurrence outweighing the severity.
Did anything that is making you anxious now happen during your previous trips? If yes, how did you handle it? If you managed to get over the challenges you faced during your past trips, it means you are a resilient and effective problem solver.
Strategize Your Travel
Maybe the reason you have pre-travel anxiety is that you are over-planning or making long lists that might not help you. Remember that people have different ways to prepare for a trip. Therefore, don’t conform to the plans of other travelers. Instead, strategize your trip your way.
Don’t spend all your time planning your upcoming trip. Instead, slow down and take a breath. You can even use an app that helps you plan your trip while relaxing. It’s not a must you plan everything at a go. You can start planning the trip a few days earlier to avoid doing everything at the same time.
It’s easy to think that you are facing a time crunch a few days before the trip. However, this is not the case. To avoid the anxiety that such thoughts can bring, take time to engage in self-care activities like exercise. Engaging in physical activity is a great way to deal with stress.
No matter how tight your schedule is, these tips can help you ease pre-travel anxiety. Follow them to avoid unnecessary stress and anxiety before you travel.