How to reduce stress when travelling

Jetting off on holiday ought to be a time of great excitement. The thought of the sun on your face, the food and drink you’re going to taste, and the promise of a new adventure should all have you tingling with anticipation.

But it’s also true that travelling often comes with its own set of stressors, from crowded airports and delays to managing itineraries and stepping into the unknown.

Thankfully, there are several ways you can reduce stress and make sure all your holidays live up to your wildest dreams. Below are some practical tips to help you.

Plan ahead and stay organised

Preparation is key. Creating checklists can help ensure that you pack all the essentials and avoid last-minute panic. Start by making a note of everything you’ll need, from travel documents to personal items, and mark off each one as you go.

And organising your passports, boarding passes and hotel reservations into a single folder, whether digital or physical, can save you time and prevent mishaps at crucial moments. We recommend keeping paper copies of important documents as a backup, especially in case of technical failures like low phone battery​.

Practice relaxation techniques on the go

Travelling can trigger anxiety, particularly during long flights or busy airports. Incorporating simple relaxation techniques into your journey can help. Breathing exercises, meditation and mindfulness apps are great tools to reduce anxiety while on the move. Many people now rely on these methods to stay calm, especially if they have a fear of flying or feel overwhelmed by large crowds​.

Allow extra time for travel

Rushing through airports or train stations is one of the biggest causes of travel stress. To avoid this, allow yourself plenty of time to get to your departure point.

Arriving early means you’ll have time to handle unexpected delays, such as long security lines or traffic, without panicking about missing your flight or train. For international flights, arriving two hours early is generally recommended, but for those prone to anxiety, giving yourself even more time can offer peace of mind.

Pack light and smart

Heavy luggage can add unnecessary stress, both physically and mentally. Packing light not only reduces fatigue but also makes navigating through airports and public transport easier. Opt for versatile clothing that you can mix and match, and stick to essentials.

Packing smart means considering how to organise your belongings for quick access – keeping travel documents and items like headphones or chargers in easy-to-reach places, for example​. This way, you’re less likely to be scrambling to find things when you really need them.

These strategies will help you arrive at your destination feeling calm and ready to enjoy your holiday, making for a more enjoyable and fulfilling experience overall.