Traveling can be stressful At the best of times. Now add in the high level of anxiety that seems baked into everything. holiday season And it is clear that it will help travelers calm their tired nerves.
Travel pros say there’s a lot you can do ahead of time to make your holiday trip happier and less stressful.
Create a list and check it off
A week before you leave, write down what to bring and what to do before your trip.
“This includes not just simple tasks like cleaning out old food from the fridge or watering the plants, but also essential tasks,” said Jess Feldman, Special Projects Editor at Travel & Leisure This includes packaging items.” “The key is to cross off your to-do list all week before you leave. Crossing things off throughout the week makes you feel much more prepared and less stressed each time.” It will be done.”
Carry your comfort zone with you
Noise-canceling headphones can go a long way in blocking out noise while traveling, but if you use them, you’ll need to keep an eye on your board or cell phone for flight or gate changes.
Sites like Spotify and YouTube offer music playlists with names like “Relaxing, Relaxing and Calm Music for Airports” and “Perfect – Music Travel Relaxation.” Or try Music for Airports, the groundbreaking album that started the ambient music genre in 1978.
Just in case, it’s a good idea to carry extra medication, a change of clothes, a toothbrush, and a cell phone charging cable.
This article is part of AP’s Be Well coverage, which focuses on wellness, fitness, diet and mental health. Read more Hope you are well.
Bringing snacks and sandwiches from home gives you peace of mind and is a great alternative to expensive airport offerings.
“I tend to pack for the worst-case scenario, such as a delayed or canceled flight. Of course, this includes bringing things to do, like multiple books, knitting supplies, and extra downloaded movies. ,” says Feldman. If I’m traveling long distances, I sometimes bring my meals in Tupperware containers.
Stay hydrated
Bring an empty water bottle to deal with the dry air on the plane (fill it after departure) go through security ) and a small pouch containing lip balm and travel-sized moisturizer.
Harry Gould, editor-in-chief of beauty care site Birdie, recommends making sure your skin is hydrated before your flight. That means drinking extra water and applying moisturizing skin care products to boost hydration and cover your base inside and out. ”
And don’t forget about your hair.
“Just as the low humidity on a plane can dry out your skin, it can also dry out your hair. If possible, use a deep conditioner before traveling,” says Gould.
Get the app and know the rules
“Each airline has different requirements when it comes to check-in, prepaying for awards, seat upgrades, etc.,” says Feldman. “It’s best to understand all of the above before you get to the airport to avoid any surprises.”
I have an airline app Learn about gate changes, flight delays, and cancellations sooner, and find alternative flights and connections faster if needed.
Give yourself the gift of extra time
Security lines may be much longer and take longer than expected. The same goes for walking through large airports. Therefore, giving yourself enough time can reduce stress. A general rule of thumb is to arrive at the airport two hours before departure for domestic flights and three hours before departure for international flights.
If it’s too early, you can always explore the airport’s shops and lounges or settle down with a good book somewhere.
“I always check ahead of time to see if there is a lounge available at my departure gate,” says Feldman. But even if you don’t have access to a lounge, “I want to know what the restaurants and waiting areas are like near the gate,” she says.
Try to identify the cause of your anxiety
“Knowing why you’re stressed can help you find ways to reduce that stress,” says Lynn F. Bufka, director of practice at the American Psychological Association. “So if you’re feeling overwhelmed, is there anything you can outsource? Is there someone in your family who can help with some of the planning?”
Realize that you cannot control crowds, bad weather, and flight cancellations.
Also, some people don’t like traveling far or flying.
“If it’s a fear, like a fear of flying, it’s important to know that it can be treated and that treatment can really improve your quality of life,” Bufka says.
get ready to go home
If you take a little extra time to tidy up your home and stock your freezer or pantry with easy-to-prepare foods, you’ll be more likely to give back in kind.
“Before you go on a trip, be sure to clean your space. After a long day of travel, you’re bound to feel depressed. Coming home to a disorganized space can make your mood even worse. “I do,” Feldman says.
Wash the sheets, take out the trash, put away the clothes, and clean the countertops. “There’s no better homecoming than coming home to a tidy and tidy space, especially after being away for so long,” she says.
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AP Business Writer Dee-Ann Durbin contributed to this report from Detroit.
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