Travel Anxiety Can Happen To Us All, How Should You Deal With It?

When you really think about it, travel anxiety should be considered one of the most normal conditions in the world. Getting out there into the big wide world, no matter how safe the country you’re going to is, will be a brand new experience and it’s always different to what you expect, or at least took from the travel brochures.

Travel anxiety can happen to veteran explorers, and so you shouldn’t feel like there’s something wrong with you if it rears its head this time around. However, if the anxiety is hard to manage or could impact your enjoyment of the trip, it’s important to address it. Heading to a doctor is your first bet, and talking honestly about your difficulties.

However, you may also find that with some care, attention and focus, travel anxiety can be soothed and you’ll soon be able to focus on the love of exploration again. Here’s what we’d recommend, though keep in mind this advice isn’t a direct prescription:

Travel Insurance Does Matter

If you know that you’re covered for lost luggage, medical emergencies, or last-minute cancellations through a service like Generali, you can travel without worrying about huge financial loss or a possible lack of accessing the services you need. At the very least this can take a weight off your mind before you even leave home. The peace of mind it brings is mostly based on the reassurance that if something goes wrong, you won’t be stranded or at a loss of what to do. Skipping it might save a few dollars upfront, but the stress of dealing with an unexpected crisis without backup isn’t worth it, and will only make things worse. This way you can focus on your enjoyment and the trip you’ve worked so hard to put together.

Breathing Exercises

Anxiety often comes when you allow your breathing to be shallow and rapid. Slowing it down can help. One method is inhaling deeply for four seconds, holding for four, then exhaling for six, which can work well if a plane is taking off, for example, as repeating this a few times tells your ody that there’s no immediate danger, and that helps tamper down the fight-or-flight response. It’s simple, but that’s the point. Better yet, you can do this anywhere. You can also consider mindfulness focus if you need a little break.

Trusted Companions

Traveling alone can certainly be fun, especially if you’re used to it, but if anxiety is a persistent issue, having someone familiar alongside you can be lovely and calming when you need that most. A trusted friend or family member who knows how to keep things light, distract you, or hold your hand until the moment passes can help you dela with anxiety with care. Even if they’re not around for the whole journey, knowing you’ll meet up with them at some point can ease the tension you might have felt too. It’s a healthy way to treat your anxiety and feel less alone in it.

With this advice, we hope you can more easily deal with anxiety without feeling like you have to cancel your trip.