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Writer's pictureTanya Louise

Travel: Ten Causes Of Travel Stress and What You Can Do About Them





If you're like me, you're probably dreaming of a holiday.


.We imagine the people we’ll meet, the exotic foods that we’ll taste, and the warm sun on our faces. Although travel is definitely a lot of fun, it’s so much more than that. Going on holiday is also a great way to relieve stress, allowing us to escape everyday life and the worries that come with it, even if only for a short time.


Despite these positive effects, travelling can take a toll too, how many times have you come back late at night, tired from traveling, leaving you feeling drained and anxious.


If you want to enjoy your next adventure, then tackle these ten causes of travel stress.

1. Planning The Trip


Planning a trip away is no small or simple feat. There are many elements, including flights and accommodation, that need booking as early as possible, as well as others factors, like insurance, or medication that people tend to forget. The easiest way to approach this huge task is to break it down. Start by creating a checklist that needs completing and then work through it point by point. Booking through a travel agent or asking travel buddies to help would also simplify the process.


2. Satisfying Companions’ Needs


I don't actually mind travelling alone and just chilling or exploring, it's part of the adventure, but for some travelling alone is definitely a daunting experience, but it does make planning a holiday a whole lot easier. After all, when you go away by yourself, you have only your own expectations and needs to take into account. When travelling with friends, however, you have to consider theirs too. Because of this, you should invite those going away with you to help you with the planning. This would mean that everyone gets a say in what the holiday itinerary is going to look like.

3. Travelling By Air


Planes may be one of the quickest and most convenient modes of transportation, but they can be quite scary for some too. This is why air travel is such a common fear, even among frequent holiday goers. There are lots of things about air travel that make it unappealing, but there are also many ways to make it less stressful. You should wear comfortable clothes, for example, or bring a book to distract you, watch a film or listen to music. If none of these work for you, then you could always travel by car, boat, or train instead.


4. Missing A Flight


As much as you might dislike air travel, missing your flight is so much worse. I nearly did it once on a trip to Egypt after getting stuck in traffic and just getting there as the gate was closing. Regardless of whether you’re flying out or heading home, turning up late to the gate can ruin your trip, as well as land you with some pretty huge unexpected costs. Although there’s no way to guarantee that you’ll make your flight, arriving at the airport early is a good idea. I always think that once you're checked in your holiday begins. Some people even choose to book a hotel right near the airport so that they don’t have far to travel the morning they fly out.


5. Covering The Costs


A holiday can be expensive no matter where you go. If you’re struggling to cover the cost of your trip, therefore, you might want to put it off for a while to allow yourself time to save up. When this isn’t an option, you could instead borrow the money. A guarantor loans calculator can give you some idea of how much money you would need to pay back each month. You can also cut the cost of your trip by travelling during off-peak season or going self catering.


6. Losing Important Belongings


It’s impossible to leave all of your valuables at home when you travel. Even if you don’t take flashy technology and expensive jewellery, you will still need your phone and passport, as well as cash and a few other important things. If you were to lose any of these items, especially your passport, it could cause a lot of problems. Because of this, you should keep your valuables close to you at all times or use a hotel safe. You should also purchase insurance to cover the cost of replacements.


7. Navigating Unfamiliar Places


Getting lost in an unfamiliar place can definitely be nerve-wracking. Instead of allowing yourself to panic, however, you should think of the situation as an adventure. As long as there are people around that you can ask for help, then you’re not in any real danger. Plus, you can always use your phone to find your way back to the hotel or purchase a map from a souvenir shop. Most locals would also be more than willing to show you the way back or call a taxi to collect you.


8. Concerns For Safety


All travellers worry about their safety abroad, especially when heading off alone. That being said, despite what some horror films might tell you, going abroad is no more dangerous than wandering the streets back home. Although there are definitely some areas that pose more of a risk than others, this can be said for any country in the world. As long as you buy travel insurance, learn a few safety tactics, and use your common sense, it is possible to stay safe.


9. Worries About Home


Going on holiday is an opportunity to get away from the stresses that plague your life back home. The trouble is, even when travelling, some people still struggle to let go. You might worry about your pets, the security of your home, or the work piling up at your job. I've often taken work with me. While it is normal to be concerned, you shouldn’t allow it to overwhelm you and take over. Asking someone that you trust to take care of things can give the peace of mind that you need to truly relax while you’re away.


10. Unfulfilled Holiday Expectations


People often spend weeks or months daydreaming about their holidays before they eventually roll around. In this time, it’s easy to build up unrealistic expectations of how the trip is going to turn out. The moment you begin to believe that your holiday will be perfect, you set yourself up to fail. Nothing in life will ever go exactly to plan and expecting it to only leads to disappointment. Because of this, you must remember to roll with the punches and prepare for a few mishaps.


Going on holiday can be stressful at times, but, if you follow the advice above, you can make travel a much more enjoyable experience.


Love Tx


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