Traveling can be magical, but it can also be stressful. We've all had trips that didn't go as planned. If planning vacations overwhelms you or navigating airports feels like a nightmare, we're here to help. We've compiled a list of foolproof strategies to make your future vacations enjoyable, taking the stress out of traveling.
Table of Contents
Travel Tips
Choosing the Right Destinations
The world may be your oyster, but when choosing a location to visit, some destinations may be more suitable than others. Whether you're going for a weekend, a vacation, or an extended adventure, it's wise to think carefully about where to go. Consider how much time you want to spend in transit, how much money you can afford to pay, and what you want to see and do.
Set a budget, research journey times and transportation options, and determine how you want to spend your time. For example, if you only want to take a short flight, you can rule out long-haul destinations like Easter Island from the outset. Suppose you don't fancy airport transfers, long bus rides, train journeys, or island hopping by seaplane or boat. Those preferences will restrict your options to more easily accessible destinations.
Deciding what type of vacation you want is an excellent way to narrow your options. You have the freedom to choose. Are you desperate to go on a Hollywood-style road trip?
Do you want to explore cultural treasures, or are you eager to escape it all and spend as much time as possible soaking up the rays on a deserted beach?
Are you keen to combine sightseeing and going to the beach, or is an adventure holiday more your cup of tea? The possibilities are endless, and each is a new experience waiting to be discovered.
Once you know what you want to do, you can research cities, regions, and countries to get inspiration. You can choose a destination that covers all bases or plan a multi-stop tour.
If you're on a budget, consider a lower-profile destination. For example, the famous city break locations may be much more expensive than lesser-known gems. If you can't afford a luxury trip to New York City, Rome, London, or Paris, check out Budapest, Lisbon, Ljubljana, Riga, or Valencia. Rest assured, there's always a destination that'll fit your budget.
For beach vacations, avoiding tourist hotspots can save you money. Look for hotels outside the main tourist areas or for less popular destinations. The Greek Islands, for example, are incredibly popular. If prices are too high or hotels are full, why not head to Croatia or Montenegro to enjoy the sunshine?
Making Travel Plans: Getting from A to B Seamlessly
A UK survey revealed that baggage collection, going through security, and waiting for transfers were the most stressful elements of going on vacation. Other common stressors included rushing at the airport, delays on the way to the airport, flight delays, and making connecting flights.
Going away is supposed to be relaxing, but for many, getting to the final destination can cause anxiety. Preparing for or avoiding delays and disruptions is sometimes impossible, but there are many ways to minimize stress.
The most important rule is to give yourself enough time. Nothing is worse than getting stuck in queues, trying to weave through crowds, and having to sprint to the gate in time. Give yourself ample time to get to the airport and pass through passport control and security so you can walk to the gate.
Book parking or airport transfers in advance. Remember that in some airports, you may have to take a shuttle to the terminal or walk 15—or even 30 minutes to your gate. If you plan to eat before you fly or are a fan of airport shopping, leave more time. Watch departure boards and listen for updates.
Packing Made Simple
Most of us will have been in situations where we've needed to chuck things in a backpack or luggage at the last minute because we've not been organized enough. Packing can be stressful, but only if you leave it until late. If you have plenty of time and have everything you need, packing a suitcase should be a breeze.
Write shopping and packing lists a couple of weeks before your trip. Buy everything you need before you travel and start packing items you won't need before your vacation.
Put essentials and valuables in your carry-on luggage and check restrictions. For example, ensure you have larger bottles of fragrance, sunscreen, and other toiletries and cosmetics in your checked bag. Keep smaller items in a clear bag in your carry-on bag. This will save you time at the airport and ensure nothing gets confiscated at the last minute.
Packing light is critical if you only take carry-on luggage or want to avoid extra luggage charges. Create a capsule wardrobe for your trip, share toiletries with your partner, friends, or family members, and use packing cubes to save space.
Enjoying the Journey
If you dread getting to your destination, try to adjust your mindset. Embrace the adventure and take steps to turn it into a positive experience. Prepare in advance, get organized to prevent airport stress, and seize the opportunity to relax, catch up with TV shows you've missed, chat, or have fun playing games or watching movies during the journey.
Many of us don't have enough time to chill out. If you've got a long flight ahead, try to see it as a chance to sleep, watch a movie, listen to music, start a new box set, or hone your Minesweeper skills. Enjoy your time with your family or friends, or chat with fellow travelers.
Read books and magazines, download some podcasts or audiobooks, or do some work to help relax. Keep yourself busy so that time passes quickly, or grab the opportunity to kick back and recharge your batteries.
Creating a Customized Itinerary
Going on vacation or planning a trip should enable you to spend time doing things you love or going to places you want to visit. When organizing your itinerary, ensure it reflects your interests, passions, and travel objectives. Research local tours, attractions, and excursions get ideas for activities and list interesting places to discover.
Reading travel guides and blogs and getting ideas from reviews is helpful, but chatting with the locals is also beneficial. While you may need to book some tours or attraction tickets in advance, leave time in your schedule for spontaneous activities or trips.
Plan your itinerary based on what you want to see and do. If you're going to spend all your time relaxing on the beach, don't feel pressured to draw up a schedule that includes all kinds of cultural experiences or action-packed activities.
Likewise, suppose you want to see different areas or immerse yourself in the destination's culture and history. In that case, you don't have to make time for relaxation by the pool just because others are doing it.
Tailor your plans to suit your preferences. If you're traveling with others, ask for input so that your itinerary suits everyone, or set aside times for doing different activities in smaller groups.
Avoiding Arguments with Travel Partners
Going on vacation or backpacking with your partner, kids, friends, or relatives can be incredible. Still, arguments and clashes are a common source of travel-related stress. If you're living with other people or going on long journeys together, you might feel like you're on top of each other. Minor issues can spiral.
To combat these problems, involve everyone in planning the trip, ask people to give honest opinions and share ideas, and make sure everyone has space and time for themselves. This is particularly important if your friends or family members have different interests or prefer a different vacation style. Respect everyone's preferences and understand that you don't have to go everywhere or do everything together.
Tackle minor issues before they escalate. Focus on having fun and creating memories. Don't sweat the small stuff. It's essential to make the most of valuable opportunities when you've been looking forward to a trip for ages and are in a beautiful place with people you love.
Staying Safe Overseas
Following a few basic rules can help you prevent travel stress and stay safe overseas. Start by ensuring you have comprehensive travel insurance. Avoid taking risks you wouldn't at home, and use recommendations from locals and other travelers to find safe routes and reliable activities.
Plan your tours carefully, and rely on trusted sources to connect with reputable local agencies, operators, and guides. Keep your money safe by avoiding large cash withdrawals, and protect your online security by using secure websites and not sharing sensitive personal information.
In Summary
Traveling can be life-changing, but it can also be stressful. Many people find that planning trips and getting to their destinations causes anxiety. Issues may also arise during vacation. You can reduce these risks by planning, staying organized, and identifying everyday stressors.
Give yourself ample time to pack, get to the airport, and board your flight. Check your travel documents and insurance, and enjoy the journey. Plan a tailored itinerary based on your interests and travel goals, relax, and take advantage of the opportunity to explore new places and enjoy quality time with friends or family. Don't let minor arguments spiral. Follow simple steps to stay safe. Stick to secure areas, take advice from locals and other travelers on board, and don't take risks you wouldn't entertain at home.
_____
This story is published in partnership with 24/7 Games LLC.
