10 Travel Anxiety Tips: The Anxious Traveler's Guide

Planning: Thorough planning can significantly alleviate travel anxiety. (For dorks like me, it’s also fun!) Research your destination, safety tips, cultural norms and local customs. Familiarize yourself with transportation options, accommodations and healthcare resources. Having a detailed itinerary can help you feel more prepared.

Pack Light & Get Organized: Not having your luggage get lost by the airline is just one less thing to worry about. I travel only with my carry-on. Make a packing list and prioritize essential items such as travel documents, medications and comfortable clothing. Invest in packing cubes, lightweight luggage and versatile clothing to streamline packing.

Stay Informed: Stay updated on current events, travel advisories and weather for your destination(s). Sign up for travel alerts from government websites to receive timely information about any potential risks or disruptions that may affect your trip.

Practice Self-Care: Traveling can be physically and emotionally taxing, so it's essential to prioritize self-care. Get enough sleep and stay hydrated. Incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga to reduce stress and promote overall well-being during your travels.

Have an Onboard Strategy: Experiment until you find what works for you. Plane yoga, listening to relaxing meditations, your favorite music or doing breathwork can all help, especially if you have flight anxiety. (My personal choice is some red wine, a movie and a sleep aid.)

Get & Stay Connected: If you don’t know if your phone will work in another country, call your provider and get the detailed steps you need to ensure service. You may need to purchase an additional or temporary plan for coverage. Share your itinerary, contact information and emergency procedures with loved ones.

Trust Your Instincts: Listen to your intuition and trust your instincts when navigating unfamiliar environments. If a situation feels unsafe or uncomfortable, don't hesitate to remove yourself from it and seek assistance from local authorities or trusted individuals. You can’t put a price on safety!

Learn the Language: Learn basic phrases and greetings in the local language. I have found that being able to say “please,” “thank you,” “Where is the restroom?” and “two beers please” can get you through most trips.

Pace Yourself: Traveling can be hectic, so it's essential to listen to your body and take breaks when needed. Pace yourself and don’t overload your itinerary with too many activities or sightseeing tours. Allow yourself time to rest, recharge, journal or just reflect on the best parts of your day.

Be Flexible: Embrace the unexpected and be open to new experiences and opportunities that arise during your travels. The challenges and setbacks you encounter along the way are part of the journey, and they often lead to some of the most memorable and rewarding moments of your trip.