4 METHODS TO COPE WITH TRAVEL ANXIETY

More and more people are getting vaccinated, and we see signs that the travel industry is recovering.

Business travel, too, is moving forward in a post-vaccine world, and that may feel stressful to those that are not quite ready yet. Traveling for business in 2021 may feel overwhelming, especially when looking at the rising cost of travel, not knowing whether you will need a negative Covid-19 test, or being aware of ever-changing travel restrictions. Even though you may have prepared for upcoming business travel, traveling may still create added anxiety.

If you feel this way, know that you are nowhere near alone. A recent poll, including both vaccinated and non-vaccinated respondents, showed that half the individuals felt uncomfortable with face-to-face interactions. There are many methods to help manage travel anxiety as we enter a post-vaccine world.

Begin gradually.

An excellent start to help manage travel anxiety is to slowly expose yourself to tasks, experiences, and outings that you have not done during the coronavirus. Take a short getaway with friends, family, or co-workers to help feel more comfortable with in-person interactions. Dodge any stressful meetings or business travel in your preliminary post-virus trip. Be sure to become comfortable in places that are typically more crowded slowly. For example, if you have avoided restaurants during the pandemic, you may want to visit one before traveling. Planning a few practice outings will help you become comfortable being around people while remembering to follow all safety measures that may be in place. However, do not start too quickly and pan well ahead of your first planned trip. Doing so may increase your travel anxiety. Planning short outings and small tasks may also help when easing into activities.

Create plans.

Disruptive passenger behavior has been on the rise since the beginning of 2021. Increased reports of disorderly passengers making headlines have led to push back from other travelers regarding safety advice. Since travel numbers have been rising, we may see cause for further delays and uncertainty. It is important to note that not everything will be under your control, and honestly, that is OK.

Concentrate on what you can control. First, you can control appropriately wearing your mask throughout the travel process and follow handwashing routines. Additionally, most of us have the luxury and or influence to choose what travel medium we use.

For example, if you plan to fly or take a train, it may be possible to prebook your seating assignment to avoid a crowded row. If the idea of a crowded hotel makes you nervous, you might think of an alternative option and book an Airbnb. Or, likewise, if you are not comfortable dining in a crowded airport restaurant, maybe bring food, or check prior for alternative options. One of travel’s most difficult experiences post-pandemic has been with rental cars as there has been a shortage as of late. Take control by booking a rental car well in advance of your scheduled travel. There are so many variables when traveling as not everything may be as smooth as in the past; additional time is prudent. Think through your travel process well in advance. Prepare comfortable clothes and pack your carry-on items to be easy to move through security lines and protocols. Always bring several different styles, masks, sanitizers, or even anti-bacterial wipes for the armrest, tray table, and other areas of your surroundings. We have all had to adjust to unexpected changes before traveling or otherwise, and we can do it again.

Focus on the positives.

One approach that may ease travel anxiety is to find something positive to focus on and the opportunities that may present themselves. Your focused positives should not be work-related either; at least they do not have to be. Simple things such as a change in the weather or scenery can be a game-changer and something to look forward to. Also, make a list of positive thoughts that you can easily access while traveling and read through them if you start to feel stressed.

Give yourself a break.

Before the pandemic, travel could quickly become a stressful experience with canceled flights, rental car mishaps, weather issues, and so many other uncertainties. Recognize you may take more time to feel comfortable, and that is simply fine. Preparing at your speed can ease managing stress when travel is on the horizon. However, if you feel that you need it, put some thought into seeking additional mental health support for help. Guidance from a professional can make the shift to traveling in the coming months a bit calmer. The past year has changed many elements of our lives. Justifiably, anxiety and stress will exist for many people as life begins to open up once again.