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The Ultimate Guide To Stress-Free Travel: 20 Tips on How To Avoid Travel Anxiety

Social media makes traveling look perfect: it’s all incredible views, oversaturated sunsets, and the perfect hotel breakfast. But what isn’t shown is the stressful process to get there and live out that dream vacation. Everyone stresses about travel at one point or another. Our high expectations for dream trips, plus having so many interactions jam-packed into one day, can make even the smallest things so stressful! Don’t succumb to the little things any longer: discover the best tips for stress-free travel so you can start enjoying the journey.

The key to stress-free travel is preparation. Save the spontaneity for when you arrive at your destination! Throughout the travel process, the easiest way to overcome stress is by being prepared for the kinds of situations that cause you stress!

To help you nail travel preparation, I’ve created a printable pre-travel checklist, available in The Travel Library, which covers all the steps you should take to prepping yourself, your family, and your home before your next trip.

Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through that link, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full disclosure !

Travel is stressful! But by printing the free Stress-Free Travel Checklist and checking off one-by-one the things you can do to reduce travel stress, you can make it less so! The checklist includes tips on this list plus extra actionable items and details to make traveling worry-free.

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Stress-Free Travel Prep

From travel planning to leaving for the airport, these are steps you need to take to eliminate travel stress.

1. Review Travel Entry Requirements and Travel Documents

At the closing of 2021, while I’m writing this post, there are still many travel restrictions in place to enter certain countries. If you’re traveling internationally, read up on the latest updates on entry requirements and understand completely if tests are required and what kinds of tests are valid.

Also review your passport; most countries require you to have a certain amount of blank pages and an expiry date of later than 6 months from the end date of your stay in that country.

For all things international travel prep, check out my international travel checklist post, which also includes a printable checklist.

2. Print Everything

Having everything available on a mobile device nowadays is super convenient, but can turn into a nightmare if you run out of battery without a charger or you have no signal to access certain apps.

To always be safe, I request a printed boarding pass and I print just about any other relevant documentation from home to bring with me. Keep a folder with you to store all documents, including copies of birth certificates and vital records if you’re traveling long-term.

3. Prep Your House for Travel

One of the most stressful parts of vacation is having your mind wander to “what’s happening at my house?” If you take the time to do a once over before traveling, rather than skimming the house in a hurry as you’re about to leave for the airport, you’ll avoid all the unnecessary panic that something is going wrong at home.

The best you can do to protect your house is take prevention steps. Leave a few lights on. Unplug all devices. Lock all doors and windows, load luggage into your car in the garage or with the trunk facing the garage, and hold mail.

All the tips for prepping your house for travel are also in the stress-free travel checklist , so you can use it as a resource for completing your final tasks and checks.

4. Pack Early

It’s tempting to put off packing your suitcase until the last minute, but it causes a lot less stress when you’re looking for items you want to bring last minute. Start packing ahead of time so you can wash dirty clothes you want to bring, evaluate how much you can fit in your suitcase, and buy items you’re missing, like travel-sized toiletries, for example.

In need of other resources to take the stress off of packing? Check out my guide to avoiding airline baggage fees and my packing checklists in The Travel Library.

Extra tip: Consider packing carry-on only to travel as light as possible. Not checking bags relieves you of the worry that they could get lost and of tugging around large luggage in the airport and at your destination.

5. Buy Travel Insurance

There’s actually no more direct way to rid yourself of travel stress than buying insurance for your trip. Lost luggage, canceled flights, personal emergencies, you name it, there’s coverage for it.

For travel insurance that is flexible and can be customized to suit your needs, I recommend World Nomads. You can buy insurance ahead of your trip or while you’re traveling and still be covered.

If you’re just starting to look into travel insurance, start with a quote to get an idea of what kind of coverage suits you and how much plans cost.

6. Create A “Final Check” Checklist

I don’t know if you can tell yet, but I’m a girl who loves her lists. Having things written down is proven to help us remember better! And it keeps us organized.

So, before you walk out the door and head on your adventure, complete your final check in peace, in an organized way and with no stress , because you’ve followed all of the previous tips!

The “final check” checklist will be part of the printable checklist available for download, but here are the main categories:

• Once-over around the house
• Packing list check before closing the suitcases
• All documents all in one place
• Essentials are accessible

Good to know: Check-in online before your flight. Airlines usually allow you to check in 24 hours before your first departing flight and this will allow you to skip waiting in line at the airport, at least if you don’t have to check bags. That being said, also download in advance your airline’s official app ! When I traveled recently with Delta, I got notifications to my phone about every update to my flight – from gate changes to when it was boarding time.

Stress-Free Suitcase Packing

Packing at the last minute = stress. Landing in a foreign country missing something you needed = stress. Messy, disorganized suitcase = stress. Eliminate all of it with these tips!

7. Create a Packing List

Sometimes the simplest things are the tasks we overlook to actually make good on. A packing list, whether printed from my collection of resources, another corner of the internet, or scribbled down on a piece of paper, gives you organization, structure, and reminder regarding the important things to bring along with you while you travel.

8. Stay Organized

A messy suitcase is just an added annoyance that could be easily taken care of. My packing sidekick will forever be my favorite Veken packing cubes that keep everything organized, easily portable, and actually help me fit more into the suitcase.

It can be frustrating when what you want or need to bring doesn’t fit in your suitcase. Use these tips for maximizing space in your luggage to pack like a pro.

9. Review TSA Guidelines

I don’t know if I’m the only one, but I get a bit freaked out if I consider bringing a snack in my carry-on or question if I can put liquid makeup products in my purse.

Ease your mind about the items you can and can’t bring and about which suitcase certain items must be packed in by reviewing TSA guidelines . The resources are out there to avoid stressful situations – take a few minutes to spare yourself the stress later!

10. Currency

While you won’t necessarily be packing currency, it is something you may wonder if you should bring with you before traveling or worry about when you get to your destination.

I would recommend exchanging at least some money – enough to cover an airport transfer at your destination and one day’s stay – into foreign currency. You can typically find the best rates at banks (but not every bank exchanges currency) or places like shopping malls, but you’ll definitely find the highest rates at airports.

Keep currency on you, either in a money pouch or an anti-theft backpack. I use this money pouch when traveling, which keeps currency and documents like my passport out-of-sight and inaccessible.

Or more likely these days, I’ll put these items into a secret pocket on my WANDRD PRVKE Backpack that inconspicuously lays flat against my back. This backpack is more designed for photographers, although you could definitely use it for general travel or even backpacking, so it’s more expensive.

For a more affordable yet durable option, I recommend PacS a fe .

11. Portable Charger

My best worry-free essential is my Anker Portable Charger . There’s nothing worse while traveling than getting into a situation where you don’t have access to your phone to contact someone or find directions.

I never leave for a trip without it and neither should you.

12. Put Valuables In Your Carry-On

The final packing tip for stress-free travel is to keep all of your valuables in your carry-on, with you at all times. Leaving things to chance in checked baggage is a risky game, especially when traveling with connecting flights. Don’t play the game – keep everything sentimentally and physically important to you in your carry-on!

Stress-Free Must Dos on Day of Travel

13. get enough sleep.

No one likes to be stressed and tired. Agree on a departure time from the house beforehand and go to bed accordingly!

14. Dress Smartly & Comfortably

It’s important not only to be comfortable while traveling, but especially when flying, to dress smartly.

Try not to wear a belt or other items you know you’ll have to take off for security; or at least where the easiest to remove items of these kinds (maybe not shoes with 100 laces!)

Wear shoes with socks so you don’t have to walk through the security area barefoot!

Layer your clothes so you can easily adjust to differing temperatures while traveling. Use jackets to double as pillows on flights!

Thinking ahead and planning out a comfortable and smart travel outfit will spare you those brief moments of stress that add up throughout the day.

15. Skip Security

Or, you could just skip the long and tedious security check all together and eliminate that stress!

Consider purchasing TSA PreCheck to enter an expedited security line and skip taking off clothing and removing items from your bag during security.

Another option is to purchase Clear , a service that allows you to skip the normal line for getting your ID and boarding pass checked and go straight to the security line.

Clear is less widely available than TSA PreCheck and costs more. This article can help you decide which one is better for you.

16. Consider Lounge Access

Nothing says stress-free travel like relaxing in the spacious, serviced airport lounge as opposed to the crowded gate areas.

You can pay for the upgrade through your airline, at the airport, or you could see if the Priority Pass is a service that fits your needs. The Priority Pass allows you to pay a membership fee and have access to airport lounges around the world.

17. Create An Airplane Survival Kit

How to fall in love with flying instead of being anxious about it?

Be as prepared as possible for the journey.

Have music downloaded to your phone and a pair of wired headphones to watch the in-flight entertainment instead of worrying how the plane is flying! Bring comfort items like slippers and lip balm.

Create your very own airplane survival kit to keep your focus on the things you like and less focus on the things you that make you worried and stressed.

Check out some of my favorite things to do on long flights to get some inspiration on how you can keep yourself productive and entertained.

If you’re new to this and that’s why you’re anxious, read my tips for first-time flyers.

Enjoying Your Vacation Stress-Free

18. make arrival as smooth as possible.

To avoid stress when arriving at your destination, it does help to imagine the worst to understand how to prepare. Example situations include lost luggage, a phone’s dead battery, or not knowing the address of your hotel.

These situations can easily be dealt with ahead of time. Make sure your luggage tags have correct information or try to avoid buying a flight with one or more stops. Bring the portable charger along and print the address to your accommodation so you don’t have to rely on your phone.

Some situations are extraordinary and can’t be prepared for: weather, for example. Do your best to take everything one step at a time and rely on all the preparedness you’ve gone through to get to your destination – you can do it!

19. Organize A Little, Be Spontaneous A Lot

I love to plan. It is ingrained in my being to plan absolutely everything possible so I’m prepared and not met with unexpected surprises.

But, there’s an exception.

And that’s traveling.

I still love to organize an itinerary and create a list of must-see places, but I have always found the best experiences and memories made are in the moments you didn’t plan for!

So, I suggest you organize enough of your trip to leave room for spontaneity. Picture this: you’ve organized every stop down to a tee. You have high expectations for how everything is supposed to go. And then, like it always happens, things come up during travel. Missed exits,

20. Journal

How many times have you stressed about something that hasn’t happened yet? I’ve got my hands up. This kind of stress and anxiety doesn’t benefit us in any way. What it does is affect us in the present moment – it actually completely takes our mind from it.

But you’re traveling to enjoy the present moment!

So, what I find has helped keep me in check is write a bit about my day while on a trip. It doesn’t have to be a lot, but just something to reflect and remind me that everything isn’t so bad and that I should be present for the memories I’m about to make. Hopefully journaling can help you in this way too!

If you’re looking to give it a try or you’re a seasoned pro seeking new ideas, check out my post dedicated to travel journaling , with some cute, printable travel journal prompts.

Final Thoughts

The golden rule of stress-free travel: prepare! Hopefully the tips and various linked resources, as well as the printable checklist I’ve created, will help you master the secret to stress-free travel.

It’s not easy to travel without getting stressed or anxious. If you’re someone who’s anxious about flying, I can completely relate to how scary it feels to travel and just think about all the things that could go wrong.

Hold onto something in those moments – whether its the happy memories you’ve created while traveling, whether its facts that make you feel less nervous, or its you looking back at how much you’ve grown and all the challenges you’ve overcome so far while traveling.

Of course, not every stressful travel situation requires such deep spiritual and mental exercising, which is what all the other actionable tips on this list are meant to help.

Taking even the tiniest of these actions will relieve travel stress little-by-little which will contribute to an overall more relaxing journey and happier you!

Which stress-free travel tip are you implementing immediately? Tell me in a comment!

Save these tips to Pinterest!

As stressful and nerve-wracking can be sometimes, you are so much stronger than you think. You can go the distance!

Michela is a travel writer and photographer living in northern Italy. She is passionate about helping people make the most of their travels by sharing advice gained from her personal experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations and time-saving quick itineraries. Browse her top articles or have her help you plan your itinerary to your dream destination!

Find me on: Web | Instagram

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The beis luggage review you need to read before you buy: worth ….

Thank you so much for your article! Very helpful information for me. I am just a master of getting into stressful situations.

Me too! I figured since I’m so good at get4ting into them, I’ll share my tips for how I get out of them! Glad you enjoyed the post 🙂

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My tech secrets to stress-free travel: 9 essential gadgets and how I track everything

Leaving, on a jet plane... don't know if I'll see my luggage again!

Unless you're particularly chilled, or spend most of your time on planes, trains, and automobiles crossing borders, travel has its stressful moments. For many people, the main pinch point is getting to a port -- whether by air or sea -- and boarding their chosen mode of transport. There are passports and paper or digital boarding passes to juggle.

I've been working on streamlining this process as much as possible. Based on how my last few trips went, my approach seems to work well. Here's the kit I use and how I pack it.

Also:  Smartphone overheating? Here are 3 ways to cool it down fast (and what not to do)

I divide the kit I carry into two categories:

• The essentials I don't want to lose

Everything else

Let's dive into these two categories.

The essentials

• AirPods Pro
• 5,000mAh magnetic wireless charging power bank
• Backup 10,000mAh power bank in case of delays
• Charging cables (for my phone and Apple Watch)
• Universal adapter  
• Folding toothbrush
• Magic compressed washcloths
• Chest/shoulder sling bag  

These are things I must have on me when traveling -- passport, smartphone (lots of tickets and boarding passes are now digital, not to mention credit/debit cards), my essential keys (I thin down my keys as much as possible before travel, so there's less to carry and lose), wallet,  earbuds , any medications I need, a power bank (I generally find that I have space for a  5,000mAh magnetic wireless charging power bank  for charging on the go and a  backup 10,000mAh power bank  in case of delays),  charging cables  (for my phone and Apple Watch), and a  universal adapter .

If I'm traveling with a laptop or drone, these devices also come with me, along with any specific chargers.

Keep tech as simple as possible. Remember, you'll get your kit out for X-ray trays at security points. The less your stuff looks suspicious, the quicker you'll be through security and on your way.

Also: Don't forget these 5 gadgets when you travel this week

If I have space, I'll throw in a folding toothbrush and a couple of those magic compressed washcloths  -- just in case.

I also attach (hidden, if possible) an AirTag to the bag I'm carrying my stuff in, and I have a modified AirTag in my wallet , for if I get separated from my stuff.

When it comes to carrying my stuff, I recently switched over to those chest/shoulder sling bags  that you can find on Amazon and other online retailers. 

These sling bags are roomy and comfortable to wear.

These bags are comfortable, have several pockets to keep things organized, and are water-resistant against showers. I have no idea about the origin of these bags, as the market is filled with companies selling the same thing. I went with a bag from a company called Waterfly because the reviews were good. Thankfully, the bag has lived up to those reviews. I modified the bag by cutting off the pullers on the zips because they rattled, and replaced them with cords with glow tags on the ends .

My Waterfly chest/shoulder sling bag.

The idea with this bag is that I'll be OK if I end up in a foreign country with only the clothes I'm standing in and the bag I can take on board. I'll have my phone and can keep it charged to make plans.

• Dyneema bags
• Peli Air 1535 case for short trips
• Peli Air 1615 case for longer trips
• Reflective tape
• TSA-compliant lockable latches
• Trace Me tag

This category covers literally everything else -- clothes, toiletries, and more. It's all the stuff made in factories every day that is easily purchased and isn't essential to my travels. I don't want to lose this stuff, but once it's been handed over to staff to be put in hold, it's out of my control.

All my toiletries are in tough Dyneema bags (these bags are super thin, feel like paper, and are tougher than Kevlar). I even have a spare one for dirty laundry.

Also:  The best travel gadgets of 2024  

I have AirTags in my luggage to keep track of things.

As for luggage, I have replaced my bags and suitcases with Peli Air cases. I have the smaller Peli Air 1535 for short trips, and break out the bigger, beefier Peli Air 1615 for longer trips. Both cases are watertight, dustproof, and crushproof, are kitted out with wheels and comfortable retractable handles, have locking points with stainless steel protectors, and tough double-throw latches.

My trusty Peli Air 1535 case.

Both my 1535 and 1615 are bright orange and are plastered with reflective tape and stickers. They're easy to spot among all the drab black and brown cases at collection points. Their distinctiveness eliminates misidentification and puts off thieves grabbing them.

I've also modified my cases by replacing the original latches with TSA-compliant lockable latches (less to do with security, because all TSA-compliant locks are garbage, and more about preventing accidental opening), hiding an AirTag inside the retractable handle, and swapping out the stock wheels for smooth-glide versions from a company called ColorCase .

Also:  This ultra-thin power bank I tested is a must-have travel gadget

Each case has a removable card holder. In there, I have a Trace Me tag that should help me become reunited with my bag if it goes missing.

These cases are about as tough as luggage gets. Yes, there's a weight penalty (the Peli Air 1535 and 1615 weigh 8.7 and 14.1 pounds, respectively), but this is an acceptable tradeoff for me.

Final thoughts

Remember, these are personal recommendations based on my experience and preferences. It's important to customize your travel essentials based on your own needs and destination.

Additionally, have a good think about what you can leave at home. Sure, it's comforting to think that you have everything packed and ready, but I'm amazed at how often I return from a trip and find a load of stuff I didn't touch.

Then there are the things you should leave behind -- knives, fireworks, and more. 

Also, every time you travel there's a risk of something being lost, stolen, or damaged, and if you have to travel with expensive stuff, it's a good idea to ensure it's insured. 

Don't forget these 5 gadgets when you travel this week

I never go to the beach without these 4 gadgets, the best macbook accessories you can buy: expert tested.

15 Stress-Free Travel Tips (how I keep travel carefree)

I’m a laid-back traveler. Stress-free travel is my default state.

I don’t care if it rains or if my luggage gets misplaced. I stay chill when flights get delayed and when I miss the last train.

I’m a happy nomad and I really don’t stress about much. This means I enjoy everything else tenfold.

So I’m stoked to share this travel style with you.

This is my guide on laid-back traveling. Below are my top stress-free travel tips for more carefree exploring and chillness.

Let’s get to it!

Table of Contents Show

What Is Stress-Free Travel?

Stress-free travel is traveling with the intention of relaxation, carefreeness and keeping things chill. And it becomes a feedback loop.

Travel supports a relaxed mindset – but at the same time, a relaxed mindset supports more carefree travel.

Exploring the globe should improve your carefreeness and chillness in life. But sometimes it becomes stressful and uncomfortable.

Becoming a laid-back traveler is a way to reset and control things.

So let’s look at some more of the benefits.

Why Be A Laid-Back Traveler? (the benefits)

Travel on its own is already awesome. But stress-free travel is even better.

Being a laid-back traveler means you can enjoy your time more fully, have more fun and take full advantage of adventuring around.

Here are some awesome perks of carefree traveling:

Have more memorable and positive experiences

Live more “in the moment” and enjoy your time more fully

Be a more flexible and resilient traveler

Improve your health and wellbeing

Make travel decisions easier and with more clarity

Handle obstacles and issues better

Inspire other travelers to be more carefree

How to Be A Laid-Back Traveler (15 stress-free travel tips)

Palm trees from a recent Hawaii trip I took :]

Ready to join me and be a more chill traveler? Epic.

Here are my favorite moves.

1. Set the Intention

Setting the intention to be more carefree and staying aware is step one.

For this, it helps to get clarity on why you want to be a more laid-back traveler. Consider these questions:

How would you define laid-back traveling?

What are your goals for carefree traveling?

Why do you want to be more chill with your traveling?

What is your current traveling style like? Is it stressful? How come?

Recommended: Types of Travelers (which one are you?)

2. Don’t Plan So Much (be spontaneous)

A great way to experience stress-free travel is to keep things loose and not plan so much.

This means putting away the perfectly scripted itineraries and being more spontaneous. Talk to locals, leave room for intuitive exploring and go off course.

Traveling is all about adventure, new experiences and throwing routine on its head. This can feel uncomfortable – but that’s what traveling is for.

Of course, this is easier if you’re a solo traveler or exploring in smaller groups. But whatever your situation is, try adding some spontaneity and exploring into the mix.

Recommended: How to Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

3. Make Time for Nothingness

Besides putting away the itineraries to make time for spontaneity, it’s helpful to also make time for doing nothing.

Laid-back travel is all about relaxation, stressing less and just going with the flow . So a great way to do that is to do absolutely nothing and not feel bad about it.

Here are some ways to do nothing while traveling:

Try slow traveling

Just walk around with no destination in mind

Go to a cafe to read, write or do what makes you happy

Do things based on mood and intuition

4. Love the Weather (rain or shine)

A laid-back traveler doesn’t care if it’s sunny, raining, warm or cold.

So even if you have a weather preference, accept everything and just embrace it. This gets rid of stress and disappointment.

It can help to have backup plans for things to do if it rains (like museums or inside stuff). But either way, try to look forward to both situations with equal excitement.

This takes practice, but it’s a great way to stay carefree.

5. Be Flexible

As my favorite quote says, “ let go or be dragged. ”

Flexibility means you stay chill, no matter what surprises pop up while traveling. Since life isn't always in our control, being able to adapt and pivot keeps you carefree.

So here are some tips to stay flexible while traveling:

Keep your expectations and plans loose

If things fall apart, let them fall apart

Make backup plans

Don’t rely on any one thing

Don’t attach your trip’s success to things that can be canceled or changed

Have an adventure mindset with everything (even obstacles or problems)

6. Avoid Serious Stressors

Avoiding stressors is a great way to stay chill while traveling.

Because while it’s helpful to keep a carefree mindset, some things are just too important. For example, avoid these stressors to stay chill while traveling:

Running out of money abroad

Staying in dangerous areas

Missing your flights

Forgetting important documents or medications

7. Travel Like An Artist (have a project)

Traveling like an artist makes you more curious and creative.

For me, this always translates to more carefreeness.

My favorite way to travel like an artist is to have some creative project. This adds artistic purpose to your travels and distracts you from “normal” stresses or concerns. It makes the whole adventure feel more intuitive, free-flowing and engaging.

For example, you could make a travel video or put together a cool photo collage.

Or if you’re a musician like me, writing adventure-inspired songs while you travel is an awesome creative project.

Alternatively, simply doing more artsy things and having an artistic perspective will reframe things as interesting creative points (which is always more carefree for me).

So what artistic thing or project could you focus on while traveling?

Recommended: How to Create A Travel Project

8. Do What You Want (not what you “should”)

Traveling takes time, money and planning.

So when you’re off visiting epic new places, you might feel like you need to do everything, explore all the local gems and see all the “must-see” recommended spots.

If this feels more like a travel obligation (not what you genuinely want to do), it can cause stress. So let’s put carefreeness back into your travel experience.

Because if you truly don’t enjoy doing something, then don’t do it.

Vacations and holidays should be a time to indulge in all of your guilty pleasures and doing stuff that brings you closer to chillness.

Of course, I’m all for pushing your comfort zones , but not all the time or every single day.

So if you want to just stay in some nights to binge watch your favorite shows, then do it.

Recommended: How to Have A “Guilty Pleasures” Holiday

9. Travel With Chill People

I’m as good as the company I keep.

So if you want to be a more laid-back traveler, then spend more time with chill travelers.

While it’s not always possible to travel with who you want to, there are plenty of ways to meet people while abroad.

Here are some tips for finding more chill people to travel with:

Stay at a share house to meet locals and other travelers

Use apps to meet other travelers

Recruit your chill friends

Use social media

10. Keep Your Super Important Stuff Close

There are some things while traveling (especially overseas) that are super important.

And losing them is going to be stressful – even for the most chillest of travelers.

So, in the event that your luggage gets lost, theft or something similar, it’s a lot easier to stay chill if you still have all your critical stuff (like your passport) with you.

You can also make copies of important documents and have multiple credits cards or methods of payment.

This is part of travel planning. Preparing things so you don’t have any single point of failure is a great way to stay chill.

You can read my checklist on the most important international travel essentials here for more info!

11. Go to Chill Places + Do Chill Stuff

Want a more stress-free travel experience? Then go to stress-free places and do more stress-free things.

Makes sense.

Unless your goal is adventure travel, planning a slow trip is a simple (obvious) way to stay chill.

For example, my favorite chill things to do include:

Self care stuff (like yoga)

Nature (hikes, parks, beaches)

Snowboarding

Spending time in cafes (especially chill ones)

12. Be A Minimalist Traveler

Being more minimalist means you have less to worry about.

This is a great segue to more stress-free travel.

Travel minimalism means you focus on the things that are either most essential or most important to you.

For example, a few of my non-negotiables are my guitar and music production equipment. But for someone else, these would obviously be unnecessary.

So narrow down your non-negotiables and prioritize those. And be honest with how much you actually need to bring.

Less is more (carefreeness).

Recommended: My Minimalist Travel Strategy

13. Travel More

Traveling more makes it a regular part of your life.

This helps you become a carefree traveler because you’ll feel less urgency to try and make everything perfect (more trips = less pressure to make each one “perfect”).

For example, if you only take one vacation per year, there’s added pressure to “make it good”. This can have the opposite effect of relaxation and chillness.

So learning how to change your lifestyle, budget differently and plan for more travel is a great way to become a more carefree adventurer.

Here are some quick tips:

Explore closer or cheaper destinations

Travel during shoulder seasons

Find remote work or way to make money while traveling

Earn travel rewards with credit cards

Recommended: How to Travel More In Life

14. Get Travel Insurance for Peace of Mind

Travel insurance protects you against financial windfalls, injuries, lost baggage and other emergencies.

And know that you’ve got some protection on your side gives you peace of mind and helps make things less stressful. So if you haven’t picked up travel insurance before, it may be a good idea to research your options.

There are plenty of flexible options, but choosing the best policy depends on your trip duration, goals and budget (among other things).

I recently wrote a whole article on the best long-term travel insurance options, which you can read in the recommend link just below!

Recommended: The Best Travel Insurance (+ what I use)

15. Practice A Chill Mindset + Lifestyle

Whether you’re traveling through a foreign city or just driving to the grocery store, carefreeness is a way of life.

So becoming more chill before you ever go traveling is a smart way to be a more laidback traveler.

This means practicing patience, present moment awareness and other stress-reduction techniques to develop a stronger chill mindset.

Having a chill mindset is a modern asset (that goes well beyond travel).

Recommended: How to Be More Chill

Travel is enjoying life to its fullest. It’s supposed to make you relax, wonder, wander and have fun.

But things can get stressful – unless you plan ahead and you’re intentional about staying chill.

For me, stress-free travel means being carefree, staying flexible, embracing the ups and downs, having creative projects, practicing minimalism and avoiding major stressor events.

Carefree travel leads to a better time exploring and a more chill life in general.

So enjoy and stay chill out there!

Want More? Okay. Here’s More.

Hey. I’m Jef — a digital nomad and the sole content creator for this site.

I’m a traveler, musician/producer, blogger, content strategist and digital creator. And I’m on a mission to inspire a more chill, adventurous and creative lifestyle.

I also spend a lot of time in Japan and love coffee.

Drop me an email to say what’s up!

11 Solo Travel Tips for Introverts (my best advice)

I hated social media, so i made it fun again (8 moves).

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Travel Tips

Five Strategies for Stress-Free Travel

Keep these tips in mind for your next trip and you’ll travel more smoothly, spend more time enjoying your destination, and maybe even relax a little more.

By Geoffrey Morrison

I travel a lot. I spend months every year living and working around the world. I’ve also fine-tuned my process so that I feel as comfortable on the road as I do at home.

But it wasn’t always this way. Like most people, I used to take once-a-year vacations, with a massive suitcase and a rigid itinerary, hopping from hotel to hotel stressed about train connections and tour reservations.

It was all unnecessary stress on the two weeks a year I was supposed to be relaxing. so while working for years as a digital nomad, I’ve figured out a few ways to minimize that stress. Here are a few of them.

I’ve spent 4 and a half months away from home with a backpack barely larger than a carry-on suitcase. I’ve met men and women that pack far less (most of my luggage bulk is work related). If you’re gone for more than a week, budget a few hours to do laundry, or a few dollars to pay for a laundry service. Being more mobile is wonderfully freeing. If you’re not sure what to leave behind, we have some suggestions .

This is another seemingly counterintuitive tip, but if you plan less you’ll be less stressed. Sure, having a per-second itinerary may seem like a gift for your future vacation self, but once there you’re going to feel rushed and anxious about making your next stop.

Sure, keep a list of things you want to do, but allow for lots of flexibility. You’re not going to see everything, so enjoy what you can and don’t rush. Less planning allows you to stay longer in spots you like, and leave early from places you don’t.

This is a hard one. It may come across preachy and I’m sorry, but cramming 15 cities into 14 days is going to make you miserable. I try to spend at least three days in each place. That gives you enough time to get the feel and decide if you want to stay, or go somewhere else. Everyone has their own best pace, but if you’re changing accommodations every other day, you’re going to be exhausted.

Keep your phone working

Turn off your work email and notifications, but keep your internet access. Google Maps, Google Translate, travel booking sites, plus messenger apps to keep in touch with people at home will all be at your fingertips.

If you have Sprint, T-Mobile, or Google Fi, your phone will probably work outside the US much as it does at home. AT&T and Verizon may not, and can be expensive to use outside the US. For tips to make the transition seamless, check out this guide to using your phone overseas at Wirecutter .

Install the right apps

I only have a handful of what I would call “travel” apps that I can’t do without. Google Maps and Translate are obvious ones. Both also largely work offline, if you download certain content ahead of time .

Booking apps like Booking, Orbitz, Hostelworld, and so on are handy too. One very useful service is Rome2Rio . The app can help you get virtually anywhere from anywhere, by whatever means available: Bus, ferry, train or airplane. It offers a far more complete look at available travel options and their costs than even Google Maps. When you’re trying to get from Thessaloniki to Dubrovnik or from Hakodate to Nagano, it’s invaluable.

Vacation Vibes: 13 Travel Tips for a Relaxing and Stress-Free Trip

Traveling is an exciting and enriching experience but can also be stressful and overwhelming. Many factors can contribute to a less-than-ideal vacation, from packing and planning to navigating unfamiliar destinations.

However, with the right strategies and travel tips, you can ensure your next trip is smooth and enjoyable. This article will explore some of the best ways to minimize stress and maximize enjoyment so you can make the most of your time away.

1. Prepare Your Home Before Going on Vacation

Preparing your home before an extended vacation or work trip is important for several reasons: it wards off burglars, prevents damage to your home, and saves money. 

• Security: Turn on security cameras, set alarms, and put lights on timers
• Access: Put away your hidden spare key or give it to someone you trust
• Refrigerator: Leave it running, but clean it out
• Thermostat: 5 degrees higher in the summer and 5 degrees lower in the winter
• Appliances: Unplug all other appliances to save on your electric bill
• Valuables: Hide your valuables or lock them up in a safe
• Mail: Use the USPS Hold Mail service (up to 30 days)

Knowing that your home is safe and secure will give you peace of mind while you’re away. 

2. Handling Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and Cash

No matter which form of payment you choose, always notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans so they can monitor your account for unusual activity and help prevent fraud. You’ll also what to inquire about foreign transaction fees if you travel abroad. 

Using a credit card on vacation can have advantages over using a debit card. First, many credit cards offer rewards or cashback for purchases, which can help offset your vacation costs.

As well, credit cards offer more protection against fraud and unauthorized charges. If your credit card is lost or stolen, you can usually dispute the charges and not be held responsible. With a debit card, if someone gets hold of your card and PIN, they can empty your checking account.

How Much Cash Should You Travel With? The amount of cash you should bring on vacation depends on several factors, including your destination, trip length, budget, and personal preferences. A general rule of thumb is to get enough cash to cover your expenses for the first few days of your trip in case your credit cards are not accepted, or there’s a problem with your account.

Keeping Your Money Safe While Traveling . Keep cash, credit cards, and essential documents in a hidden pouch or money belt worn under your clothing to keep them safe from pickpockets. Also, be discreet when using cash or credit cards, and do not flash large amounts of cash publicly to avoid catching a thief’s eye. 

3. Preparing and Using Your Mobile Device Abroad

Contact your mobile carrier to inquire about international roaming plans, data usage rates, and other related charges that may apply when using your device abroad. Here are a few tips for preparing and using your cellphone while abroad:

• Some mobile carriers offer international roaming plans that allow you to use your existing SIM card or an eSIM card while traveling abroad. These plans may include additional charges and limits on data usage.
• In some countries, purchasing a local SIM card may be more cost-effective. This can be a good option if you plan to use your phone frequently and want to avoid high international roaming charges.
• Download offline maps and translation apps before your trip so you don’t have to waste your data. 
• Make sure you have a travel adapter compatible with the outlets in the country you’re visiting, so you can charge your device.

Generally, checking with your mobile carrier and researching your options before traveling is the best course of action.

4. Get Travel Insurance: It’s Worth The Peace of Mind

Travel insurance provides financial protection in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies while traveling. 

• Trip Cancellation or Interruption: Travel insurance can cover costs incurred if you cancel or interrupt your trip for a covered reason, such as illness, severe weather, or a death in the family.
• Medical Emergencies: Travel insurance can cover medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include emergency medical treatment, evacuation, and repatriation.
• Lost or Stolen Luggage: Travel insurance can cover lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal items.
• Emergency Assistance: Travel insurance can provide access to emergency assistance services, such as help with finding a doctor, arranging transportation, and providing translation services.

Be sure to read the policy’s fine print to understand what is covered and what is excluded before purchasing a travel insurance policy.

5. Research the Destination: Safety, Culture, and Laws

Researching your destination before vacation can help you better prepare for your trip and get the most out of your experience. Here are a few travel tips to consider during your research:

• Safety: Researching a destination can help you understand the safety risks and precautions you should take while traveling. This can include information on crime rates, dangerous locations, natural hazards, and political instability. Check out the U.S. Travel Advisory website.
• Culture and Customs: Understanding the culture and customs of a destination can help you better appreciate the local way of life and avoid any unintentional cultural mistakes.
• Laws and Regulations: Researching the destination’s laws and regulations can help you understand any restrictions or requirements you need to be aware of while traveling, such as visa requirements or local laws.

6. Create a Loose Travel Itinerary

Creating a travel itinerary can help you make the most of your vacation time and ensure that you get all the important sights and activities. It can help you budget your time and money by allowing you to plan out your activities and expenses in advance. It can also help you avoid rushing from place to place or feeling overwhelmed by too many options. 

7. Make Copies of Your Important Travel Documents

One of the most important travel tips is making copies of important travel documents, such as a passport, ID, and credit cards, before going on vacation. If the original documents are lost or stolen, having copies can help with replacement or verification processes. It’s also important to keep these copies in different places. Consider keeping a digital copy, a paper copy, and leaving a copy with a trusted friend or family member.

8. Stay Organized With A Travel Packing Checklist

A travel packing checklist is a great way to ensure you remember all necessary items before and after your vacation. It allows you to make a comprehensive list of everything you need to bring and to check off items as you pack them. This can save time and reduce stress by eliminating the need to constantly second-guess yourself about what you need to bring.

Additionally, a travel packing checklist can help you stay organized and ensure you have all the essentials, such as your passport, tickets, and medications, that you’ll need for your trip. Using a travel packing checklist can also help you avoid overpacking and reduce the chance of leaving something behind, saving you money and hassle in the long run.

9. Airport Travel Tips

Airports can be stressful, but there are steps you can take to make your experience as smooth as possible. By planning ahead, packing wisely, arriving early, staying organized, and being mindful, you can reduce stress and ensure a more pleasant airport experience. Additionally, staying calm and patient can help keep things in perspective when unexpected issues arise.

Here are several airport travel tips you can use to travel a little easier:

• Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to check in, clear security, and find your gate.
• Check-In Online: Many airlines allow you to check in and print your boarding pass at home, saving you time at the airport.
• Pack Smart: Pack only what you need and be mindful of the size and weight of your luggage. Check with your airline for their carry-on and checked baggage allowances.
• Wear Comfortable Clothes: Dress comfortably for your flight and wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off for security.
• Knowing What You Can Bring: Be familiar with the TSA’s guidelines for carry-on and checked baggage and what items are prohibited.
• Stay Organized: Keep your travel documents, ID, and other important items easily accessible and organized.
• Stay Connected: Keep your phone and other devices charged, and consider a portable charger or battery pack.
• Be Patient: Air travel can be stressful, but stay patient and calm. Remember that things may not always go as planned, but you’ll reach your destination eventually.
• Research the Airport: Learn about the layout, amenities, lounges, and services available at your airport so you know where to go and what to expect.

10. Take A Guided Tour With A Local Expert

Going on a tour during your vacation can be a great way to experience a destination in a more authentic and meaningful way. A tour can provide a deeper understanding of a place’s history, culture, and customs and offer unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences that may be difficult to find on your own.

Tours are often led by local experts who can provide valuable insights and information about the places you visit. They can also introduce you to local people, customs, and traditions, giving you a more authentic and memorable travel experience.

Going on a tour can also save you time and hassle, as they often include transportation, guides, and admission fees, making your trip more efficient and hassle-free.

Additionally, tours can be a great way to meet other travelers and make new friends, especially if you’re traveling solo. They can also be a great way to discover new places and try new activities you might not have considered.

It’s important to note that there are many types of tours, from big bus tours to small group and private tours. It’s worth researching and choosing the right tour that aligns with your travel style, interests, and budget.

My go-to online tour booking platform is Viator.com . I’ve been on walking tours, mural tours, canal, and river tours, and day trips booked through Viator, and I’ve never had an issue within the US or abroad!

11. Use Public Transportation When Available

Using public transportation on vacation can be a great way to save money , avoid the stress of driving, and experience a destination like a local. Public transportation options, such as buses, subways, and trains, can be much cheaper than renting a car, taking taxis, or using a ride-share app. They can also provide a more immersive travel experience.

Additionally, many cities around the world have excellent public transportation systems that are reliable, efficient, and easy to navigate. They often offer a convenient way to get around and see the sights without needing a car, which can save you money on parking and gas.

Moreover, public transportation can also be a more environmentally friendly option, reducing your carbon footprint and supporting sustainable travel practices.

12. Relax and Practice Self-Care

Setting realistic expectations for your vacation and avoiding over-scheduling or feeling like you need to be doing something constantly. Self-care is crucial to maintaining overall well-being, and it is vital to include self-care activities during a vacation.

Self-Care Travel Tips Include:

• Packing snacks in case you have to miss a meal
• Always carry a water bottle to keep you hydrated
• Make sure that you are getting adequate sleep
• Stay active or schedule time to exercise.
• Add a few healthy meals to your diet

Taking time to rest and rejuvenate can help you return to your daily life feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

13. Use Your Out-of-Office Reply

Yes, setting an out-of-office reply is one of the essential travel tips and will ensure you can fully disconnect and enjoy your vacation. This will let anyone who contacts you via email know that you are away and when they can expect a response from you. It also can avoid the unnecessary stress and pressure of checking and responding to emails while you are away. This will help you relax and enjoy your vacation without worrying about work-related matters.

Use These Travel Tips For a Stress-Free Trip

With these travel tips, you can make your trip or vacation a hassle-free and enjoyable experience. From using a packing list and credit card rewards to using public transportation and going on a tour, these strategies can help you make the most of your time away. Remember to plan ahead, stay organized, and be open to new experiences, and you’ll be sure to have a memorable and stress-free vacation. Bon voyage!

This article Travel Tips: 10 Strategies for a Stress-Free, Enjoyable Trip originally appeared on Wander With Alex . Photo Credit: [@Rawpixel/DepositPhotos]

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alexandrea Sumuel Groves is a nationally syndicated travel writer and founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog. Her work has appeared on MSN, YAHOO!, Euronews, and FOX, ABC, and NBC affiliates across the United States. 

Alex travels to experience, eat, explore, and occasionally escape! She collaborates with destinations, vacation property management companies, and hospitality technology firms to provide her readers with exclusive insights and information.

Wander without worrying

Exploring a new city. Hiking through one of our national parks. Chilling at your favorite beach. Your vacation is your chance to leave the world behind and focus on unforgettable experiences. But whatever your vacay style may be, there’s one common challenge: creating a stress-free travel experience.

We’ve got you! Take the stress out of your vacation and enjoy tranquil travels with these awesome hacks for a smooth, serene vacation.

Plan and organize ahead of time

Stress-free travel begins early. And we mean “in the planning stages” early.

Give your vacation a smooth start by giving yourself enough time to plan your next adventure, especially flights and accommodations.

Use travel apps

Speaking of trip prep, travel apps are a great resource for planning, especially location-based ones like Yelp!

Power up devices the night before

Is there anything more stressful than watching your phone slowly dying?

Sure, most airports have outlets and charging stations available. The only problem is, everyone else wants to use them, too.

Give yourself plenty of time

You never know what traffic will be like, so give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport and make your way to the gate.

Bring snacks and water

Dehydration can cause stress, and we alllll know what it’s like to get hangry. Keep your mood light and happy and enjoy stress-free travel by having plenty of snacks and water on hand.

Join TSA pre-check

Is there anything more stressful than standing in a loooong line when you just want to get on the plane?! We don’t think so, either.

Speed up the security process and breeze through airport security lines by getting pre-approved for TSA PreCheck .

Being surrounded by visual clutter and having to rummage through a suitcase every morning? Ummm, that’s not stress-free travel!

Schedule downtime

We get it; you want to maximize your vacation days and squeeze every last minute of fun from your vacation. But if you overplan every minute, you’ll just feel rushed, frazzled, and super stressed.

Practice self-care

Prioritize self-care during your trip. Stay hydrated, stretch your muscles, and get plenty of fresh air.

Give yourself a buffer

No matter how relaxing your vacation was, when you get home you guys will have to do… stuff. Unpack, do laundry, grab groceries; you guys know the drill!

Ready to zen out on your next vacation? These stress-free travel hacks will help you relax your body, recharge your mind, and restore your spirit.

And we’ve saved our biggest tip for last! For a truly stress-free trip, ship your stuff to your hotel or Airbnb with LugLess. Skip the hassles of lugging your suitcases around, eliminate any worries about lost luggage, and enjoy your vacation from smooth start to blissful finish!

Traveling Party of Four

50 practical and simple stress-free travel tips.

• March 6, 2021
• Travel Health and Wellness
• by Jenny Bhatia

My travel philosophy has evolved over the years from my twenty-something version of “I have to see everything and wear myself and everyone with me out” to an adventurous yet more peaceful experience. I learned to slow it down, breathe, and enjoy the moment. Nowadays, when I return from vacation, I find myself rested, revitalized, and ready for what each day holds. Here are 50 practical and simple stress-free travel tips that I have learned along the way to help you find the same.

📌 Pin it for your friends . 📌

Affiliate Disclosure: There are affiliate links throughout this post. This means if you click on a link and purchase a product through that link, then I will receive a small commission for the referral. And that is kinda cool.

Stress-Free Travel Planning Tips.

Stress-free travel tips — safety edition., stress-free travel tips when you arrive at your destination., keep your mind and body at ease with these healthy tips..

What many travelers don’t realize is experiencing a stress-free vacation starts during the planning phase. Heading out for vacation thoroughly prepared will eliminate a lot of issues that cause travel stress and anxiety.

So, let’s start with these stress-busting travel planning tips.

1) Get organized. Be intentional about travel planning — here is a great start, a 50-page travel planner that includes all of the following:

• Travel journal prompts.
• Packing lists.
• Bucket list ideas.
• Travel safety tips.
• Fitness advice while on the road.
• How to stay healthy while traveling.

2) Ease your mind that your home is safe while you are gone by preparing for safety before leaving. Here is a comprehensive list of things to do before leaving on vacation.

3) Make plans for your furry friend while you are traveling. Plan for him to stay with a friend or have a friend stay with him.

4) Research your destination.  

• Learn about local tourist scams.  
• Know the emergency number of the destination where you will be traveling —  this website  provides a list of emergency numbers and calling codes literally from A to Z.
• Become knowledgeable of places that are known to be unsafe.
• Find out if the water is safe to drink.
• Learn the local laws and cultures so you don’t offend the locals.
• Check the  travel advisories  for your travel destination.   The U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs  lists travel warnings by levels, from “Exercise Normal Precautions” to “Do Not Travel.”  Check here first .

5) Notify your credit card company and your bank that you will be traveling.  

6) Make several copies of your passport. Take a picture of your passport to keep on your smartphone. Email a copy to someone back home who can send it to your emergently.  

7) Take this extra step — memorize your passport number (this helps on the flight, too, so you won’t be digging around for it when you have to fill out the paperwork). If you lose your passport, it is much easier to obtain a replacement if you have a copy.

8) Book the basics — flights, lodging, transportation, and activities. Print it all and add it to your travel journal.

9) Consider these things when choosing your room in the hotel. 

• Ensure the room is away from the elevator, laundry room, pool deck, ice maker, and gym. High rooms are quiet, too.
• The city view is fantastic, but it will come with bright lights and lots of noise.
• Read the reviews. Often, people will comment on room location, good and bad.
• And call the hotel or resort before you book and request a quiet room. Most will oblige.

10) Create a checklist for packing. Better yet, create a packing checklist for every traveling member of the family.  

11) Take your time packing; it’s an art. And pack your suitcase one or two days before you travel.  

12) Here are a few helpful packing hacks I have perfected (kind of) over the years.

• Pack as light as you can.  
• Packing cubes are fantastic for organizing your clothes, shoes, and toiletries. 
• You won’t need three pairs of jeans, ever.
• Use the space in your shoes for packing socks or breakables.
• To roll or not to roll? Roll clothes that are easily wrinkled and fold that one pair of jeans. Roll up your underwear, socks, swimsuits, and bras and tuck in last.
• Bring wrinkle release or a handheld steamer like this one to get the wrinkles out.
• Pack your heavy stuff like boots, jeans, and hoodies close to the suitcase’s wheels; it will roll better this way.
• Don’t forget travel-sized laundry products like this.

13) Pack a change of clothes into your carry-on, just in case.  

Here is a checklist of essentials to pack in your carry-on for your flight, plus things to do on a long-haul flight.

14) Don’t forget your hand sanitizer, wipes, and a mask (at least until the pandemic is over).

15) Once you have packed, weigh your luggage. It isn’t enjoyable having to pay extra cash when your suitcase is too heavy.  

16) Now plan your airplane outfit. You want to look stylish but feel comfortable at the same time. Layering is best as sometimes it’s hot and sometimes it’s cold. Plus, add a blanket scarf and use it as a blanket, pillow, wrap, or scarf.

17) Create a “soft itinerary.” Make a list of musts and maybes. Don’t overload your itinerary. No one in your traveling party will like you. And it’s stressful to try to do everything. If you miss something, it’s all good. If the rest of them are too tired to keep going, then go out on your own. But, be careful.

18) Purchase travel insurance. Stuff happens. Purchasing travel insurance will provide peace of mind that you will be taken care of in the event of an unexpected, unfortunate circumstance.

World Nomads ,  created by travelers for travelers, is one of the best choices for travel insurance, available to people in over 130 countries.  Check out the World Nomads Website here .

19) Exchange your currency before you get to your destination. It’s expensive to exchange money at an airport. And if you don’t, you will be stuck searching for an ATM or bank to help you. Get this done before you arrive at your destination.

20) Get to the airport early — this is an essential stress-free travel tip. Get there early, park, check your bags, get through the TSA interrogation, then find your gate and chill out. 

21) One more top tip about the airport — take a picture of where you parked your car so that you can easily refer back when you arrive home after your fantastic stress-free vacation.

22) Here are tips from the pros that will help alleviate stress and anxiety at the airport . And if you have a long layover , take full advantage of all of the things you can do to relax.

23) Download essential travel apps and create a travel folder on the home screen of your smartphone.  

• Most hotels have an app, and many include contactless check-in.
• Major airlines have apps that you can use to check into your flight ahead of time and skip the line.  
• Google translate is super helpful if traveling to a place with a different language.
• Download a weather app to know the weather days before you arrive so you can pack accordingly.  
• You will need a navigation app, especially if you are renting a vehicle and driving yourself. Use Google Maps, Waze, or the iPhone navigation app.
• If you are traveling in the mountains, download an altimeter.
• Uber and Lyft both have apps.
• There are many general travel-related apps you can check out, including Travelocity, Trip Advisor, Trip It, Expedia, and Roadtrippers.

24) Don’t flash your cash, literally and metaphorically. Don’t wear dazzling jewels or carry flashy, expensive bags (leave your Louis behind). You will stand out in the crowd and be an easy target for theft. If you look like money, you are fair game in many places. 

25) If there is a safe in your hotel room, use it — no need to tempt anyone by leaving out expensive goods.

26) Be aware of your surroundings at all times.  

• Trust your gut if you feel something is awry. Get out if you feel uncomfortable. Don’t ignore your instincts.
• Do your research about unsafe areas, and don’t go there, especially alone or with your children.
• Don’t fixate on your phone while walking up the street, riding a city bus, the subway, or tube. 

27) Pack a first aid kit and be prepared for minor issues. Here is what to include in your first aid kit.  

• Ibuprofen (for adults and kids).
• Acetominophen.
• Pepcid, Pepto, anti-emetic (we use ondansetron).
• Hydrocortisone cream.
• Triple Antibiotic Ointment.
• Antihistamine (for example, Benadryl).
• Bandaids of various sizes.
• Aloe or other sunburn soothing lotion.

If you love a checklist, read this and download the DIY first aid kit checklist.

28) Bring sunscreen and use it. Sunburns are painful, stressful, and increase your risk of developing skin cancer. Plus, a sunburn will speed up the aging process of your skin. You know, wrinkles?

29) Pack bug spray and use it. Mosquitoes cause so many problems; malaria, West Nile Virus, dengue, chikungunya, zika, and yellow fever. According to the  World Health Organization , mosquitoes are one of the deadliest animals in the world. So, use your insect repellent.

30) Pack hand sanitizer and wipes and use them all the time.

31) Wear a mask when in large crowds, and you cannot social distance, at least until the pandemic is over.

32) Teach your kids how to swim — one of the best life skills we can provide as parents. And it’s way more fun to be able to swim.

33) Split up your cash between you and your traveling companion. If one of you is robbed or loses money, you still have reserve cash. Plus, stash your extra cash in a hotel safe.

34) Take lots of pictures. However, don’t lose a moment because you are too involved in getting the gram’s perfect shot. Get your photos in, put the camera away, sit and take it all in.  

35) Find a market close to your lodging and stock your hotel refrigerator with healthy snacks and some treats, of course. Add portable snacks to your backpack in case someone gets hungry between meals.

36) Plan to eat breakfast at the hotel each morning. It saves money, and you will begin the day in a healthy way. Here are a few ideas for a healthy breakfast.

• Greek yogurt with granola and berries.
• Bagel with peanut butter.
• Oatmeal and bananas (if there is a microwave in your room).
• Power bars and power drinks.
• Whole-grain muffins.
• Hard-boiled eggs.

37) Stay active during the day and walk or ride a bike to the sights when you can. Only use public transportation when necessary.

38) Begin your vacation well-rested and well-fed. Get a peaceful night’s rest, eat a healthy breakfast, and if time permits, go to the gym or for a run before heading to the airport.

39) Don’t tie one on the night before you travel. Nothing worse than a travel day with a hangover, headache, and foggy brain.

40) During your vacation, stay active during the day and walk or ride a bike to the sights when you can. Only use public transportation when necessary.

41) Stick to your exercise routine. You don’t have to go beast mode; just start your day off by moving your body. Take a walk, go for a jog, hit the gym, or practice yoga.

42) Try the local cuisine; it is part of cultural immersion when traveling. But watch out for too many sweets and carbs. AND, too many strange foods may not agree with you.  

43) Hydrate all day. Keep your water bottle with you at all times, and stay hydrated.

44) Sleep Tip:   Make your room a home away from home or a relaxing spa experience. Here are a few simple ideas.

• Bring a pillow or at least a pillowcase from home—Spritz lavender scent on the pillows and around the room.  
• Set up a diffuser and create a spa-like atmosphere with aromatherapy.
• Bring a picture from home and set it up on your nightstand next to your novel.
• Consider a lavender-scented sleep mask and earplugs.  
• Use a white noise app to drown out weird sounds.  
• Turn the thermostat down to around 67.  
• Close the blackout curtains, use a clothespin to secure them if necessary. And off to sleep, you go.

45) And if you are traveling with kids.

• Keep your bedtime routine as close to the usual as possible.  
• Stay busy all day.  
• Pack security blankets and stuffed animals.  
• And keep on with the nighttime snack routine.

46) Read more sleep tips here, including how to sleep on an airplane and what to do when you can’t sleep.

47) Pack your essential oils.   Here are the three most versatile essential oils for travel.

• Ginger  ~  Helps control motion sickness from flights, boats, car travel. Travel with ginger in the form of ginger candy, tablets, or Ginger Beer. Plus, Ginger Essential Oil should be added to your motion sickness kit, as well. 
• Peppermint Oil  ~  Try Peppermint oil in a diffuser to purify the air or a drop in your muscle rub to relieve muscle tension. Blend peppermint oil with your carrier oil and rub it on your stomach for nausea and heartburn. And bugs don’t like the smell of peppermint. Purchase peppermint oil in roll-on form and use it on your temples and sore muscles to relieve headaches and hangovers. 
• Lavender Essential Oil  ~  Use lavender in a diffuser and inhale for relaxation when queasy, especially helpful if your nausea is related to anxiety or nervousness. Lavender is the most common essential oil used for relaxation and sleep. Spritz your blanket and pillow before you lie down in bed to sleep.

48) And if you want the scoop on how to travel with essential oils, read this — includes a beginner’s guide to traveling with essential oils PDF.

49) One final stress-free travel tip — Be Kind.

If there is one thing that will forever stick with me after going through 2020, it doesn’t take much to be kind. When you smile and act in a thoughtful way to people, they will return your kindness. 

So, be nice to the people helping you. Be nice to the flight attendants, the hotel and restaurant employees, and your uber driver. Smile at the people on the streets. They will smile back, and you may turn someone’s day around for the better.  

Be nice to your family, and be nice to yourself.  

50) Spread kindness. It isn’t hard, and it makes your life and the lives of those around you brighter.

“Three things in human life are important. The first is to be kind. The second is to be kind. And the third is to be kind.” Henry James

What do you do to maintain a stress-free vacation adventure? Drop me a line below, and I will add your tip to this comprehensive list.  

We will soon be on the road again, so stay safe, stress-free, and at peace.

6 Comments on 50 Practical and Simple Stress-Free Travel Tips

I plan to travel in future, so reading posts like this with many useful travel tips is of great help. Thanks for sharing.

We are going to head out soon to travel some, I will need to keep my list close, too. Be safe.

Such a great list of tips to help traveling more stress free! Definitely will utilize these helpful tips when traveling! 🙂

Thank you. I hope they help, keep me posted.

Nothing to add! This is a great list with everything we all need to know! The only thing that was new for me but I found genius is a pillowcase with a lavender scent. As I am a huge lavender fan, this is something that I will definitely try and maybe even at home 😀

I am, too. And lately, eucalyptus. Try that one, too.

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21 Tips and Tricks to Ensure Stress-Free Travel

With these tips for enjoying stress-free travel, we’ll have you cruising through the airport and around your destination feeling prepared and ready to roam!

You’ve booked your dream vacation, and you are intent on relaxing on a beach far far away from the stresses of daily life. Then … you arrive at the airport! Your bag is overweight and that fee is astronomical. You can’t find your passport, again, and the security line is ridiculous! In the hustle and bustle of the crowd, you very quickly remember why you are so exhausted every year when you get home from vaca. Travel can be stressful, and that’s the opposite of what you want for your trip, but can you truly have stress-free travel?

Well, not really. There’s always going to be a small amount of stress and anxiety around travel, but not all stress is bad. Stress can focus your mind and keep you on guard if it’s contained and minimal. There’s a fine line between good and bad stress, and we want to walk that line. With these tips and tricks for enjoying stress-free travel, we’ll have you cruising through the airport and around your destination without mishaps—feeling prepared, safe, and ready to relax!

Mark your arrival with a scavenger hunt!

If you’re in search of an easy way to see the sights at your next travel destination, try a scavenger hunt ! With the Let’s Roam app , you’ll have hundreds of adventures right at your fingertips! Learn about local landmarks while answering trivia questions and participating in photo challenges with your travel mates. It’s an excellent way to explore a new city !

Stress-Free Airline Travel

1. have an organized packing system..

If you want to travel stress-free, it starts at home. Being organized with your packing not only helps you navigate the airport easier, but it will make the whole trip easier. Here are some packing tips to help:

• Packing light will also help you during the trip as you can easily maneuver trains, taxis, small stairwells, cobblestone streets, subway systems, and elevators. Don’t forget you can buy most of what you need when you get there!
• Use packing cubes. Keeping your clothing and personal items separate and labeled allows you to access what you need quickly and not have to dig through your whole suitcase just to get a clean pair of socks. 
• Pack the same way every time. If you know where things are and put them back in the same place each time, you save yourself stress and time always looking for the tweezers.
• Keep security items handy. Look up the rules for TSA security points and make sure you have everything that needs to come out of the bag handy. Keep your Ziploc of liquids at the top of your personal item, easy to get to. Pack your snacks there too for quick access to ward off the hangry. Make sure you don’t have anything in your carry-on bag that isn’t allowed on board.

2. Carry a fanny pack.

Sticking with the packing theme, a fanny pack (or bum bag) is a lifesaver. Getting in and out of your bag fifty times to get your passport, boarding pass, etc. slows you down and causes stress. Have them handy, but safe and secure, around your waist. A fanny pack also allows you to have a pen for all those new travel forms that seem to multiply by the minute. You can stock your chapstick, earbuds, and the gum and aspirin you need for your long flight, all easily accessible. 

Plus, a fanny pack usually gets through security as an extra bag, so you get three on the flight instead of two, as it’s an article of clothing. During takeoff, you cannot have anything in your lap anymore, so a fanny pack is helpful during those times before the pilot allows you to get into the overhead bin.

3. Memorize your passport number.

With travel in the shadow of the pandemic, the amount of documents you have to fill out seems to double daily. Knowing your passport number and expiration dates keeps you from having to dig it out of the overhead bin or under-seat bag to fill out that entry form. It’s a sign of travel experience, and if you ask most intrepid travelers, they will know their passport number off the top of their heads. 

4. Be organized with paperwork.

Travel paperwork can be a real hassle. Covid-19 has certainly increased this and made check-in a bit of a nightmare. While it’s getting better, as airports are hashing out better and more efficient processes by the day, it’s still best for everyone if you are prepared! Many airlines now use Verifly , where you can upload all your important documents into the app and be ready to go with just a scan. 

Even with the app, you should still have a hard copy, or virtual copy, of your vaccination proof (if you are vaccinated), a negative Covid-19 test taken with the appropriate time period for your destination’s regulations, and any health pass required for your airline or destination nation. Have your stuff organized and out before you get in the check-in line. Normally we would say check-in online, but right now, it doesn’t do you much good. You still have to get in line to have all your paperwork checked. 

*This sounds like a dumb tip, but you would be surprised how many times we stand in line behind someone who can’t find their passport or hasn’t done their paperwork. Don’t hold up the line and put that extra stress on yourself, as everyone huffs and glares at you while you fight airport wifi to fill out your forms. Be prepared.

5. Download the airline apps.

All major airlines have an app that will alert you to changes in your flight such as delays and gate changes. You can check in through the app, verify travel regulations, and book changes if necessary. Set up alerts so that you are notified in real-time when those inevitable flight changes occur.

6. Score airport lounge access.

Airport lounges are no longer a secret, but they can decrease your travel stress level immensely. Most lounge connoisseurs are there on a perk from a great travel credit card. This is certainly an option if you are a frequent traveler and will give you access to travel insurance and upgrades as well. If not, then it probably isn’t worth the high yearly fee for you.

However, you can purchase a membership to specific lounges or a Priority Pass that lets you into a large number of lounges all over the world. Not only do lounges have free food and adult beverages, but they have better wifi, comfortable seating, and some even have showers and sleeping areas. In some airport lounges, you can even buy a day pass that won’t cost you any more than eating at one of those incredibly overpriced airport restaurants. 

7. Download your favorite podcasts and music ahead of time.

Don’t rely on airplane wifi to work. Download any podcasts and your favorite playlists before you get on the plane. Airplane entertainment is notorious for glitches and just outright not working at all, so be prepared with your own distractions. This is especially important if you are a nervous traveler or are traveling with children.

8. Save multiple copies of your passport and have passport photos handy.

Many nations will require you to have passport photos or a copy of your passport to get your visa. Some car rental agencies will request them as well. It’s also a good idea to keep a laminated paper copy of your passport during your trip. Lock your passport in the room safe and carry a copy of it in your daypack as you travel around. This way you don’t stress about losing it all the time.

9. Global entry and TSA precheck.

If you are a world traveler, paying for Global entry is a no-brainer. It also comes as a free perk on many travel credit cards, so if you are planning on signing up for one, make sure Global Entry is offered. This handy pass allows you to go through TSA precheck, allowing you to keep your shoes on your feet and your belt tightly buckled. It also allows you to skip the long customs lines coming in the United States and pass right on through to baggage, which is a lifesaver if you have a quick connecting flight. 

Extra tip: While we are talking about connecting flights, if you are an inexperienced traveler, or transiting through an unknown airport, make sure that you have enough time on your flight itinerary to comfortably make your connection. Saving a few bucks is not worth the stress that comes with running with your luggage and children through a foreign airport to catch your flight home.

10. Avoid jet lag.

Jet lag is a real thing, especially as you get older. One of the best travel tips for avoiding jet lag is to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Yes, you’ll have to use the airplane bathroom, but you won’t feel so awful after the flight. Try to get a good night’s sleep the day before your flight, and if you have a night flight, do everything you can to sleep ( if this includes Benadryl or one a couple of those little wine bottles, so be it). 

Once you land, try to get out in the sunlight. Instead of taking that nap you really want, consider a walk in the local park instead. Try to stay awake until bedtime to get yourself on track for the rest of the trip. 

11. Don’t go with the flow.

Herd mentality is at its peak in a busy airport. The anxiety is palpable. Some people are scared of missing their flight. Others are anxious about the security points. Parents frantically grasp their children, and everyone is nervous their bag isn’t going to come. Covid has added even more stress in crowded airports with more regulations than normal.

Remember that everyone else’s demeanor does not need to affect yours. Be prepared, and keep your cool. You don’t need to run just because everyone else getting off the plane is running. You have plenty of time for your connection. You don’t need to stand in your seat after landing with your neck half-broken, waiting and huffing at the person in front of you (who is huffing at the person in front of them) to hurry and get their bags off the plane. Remain in your seat with your earbuds and favorite tunes. Fighting for position only adds to your anxiety and frustration level, and it really gets you nowhere. Don’t add extra unnecessary stress to yourself and others. 

12. Create a flight care pack.

Getting out of your seat on a flight is frustrating to you and everyone around you, especially if it’s a small, short flight. You are no longer allowed to have anything in your lap on takeoff or landing, and it’s hard to get that bag out from under the seat in front of you. Consider packing a small Ziploc or makeup bag with the things you need during the flight before you get on the plane. Because you were prepared earlier, you are at the gate early and have plenty of time to do this. Grab your gum, an aspirin if it’s a long flight, your headphones, and your laptop if you plan on working on the flight. If it’s an overnight flight, grab your toothbrush, contacts, and toothpaste. The fewer times you have to access that overhead bin, the better. 

13. Take preventative measures.

Most of us, especially Americans, are very bad at preventative health. We wait until we have a problem, and then frantically try to fix it. This lack of care is not only bad for our overall well-being in daily life, but it can cause catastrophic stress during travel. If you are an anxious traveler, get to the airport early and get through the process. Once at your gate, or preferably in the lounge, take this time to set yourself up for a successful flight. 

If you have anxiety meds, take them now so they have plenty of time to kick in. If you need to sip on a free glass of wine in the lounge, do it. Instead of fretting over everything that might go wrong with boarding, get alone near the window and listen to something meditative, a prayer or sermon, calming music, or whatever it is that clears your mind. Be intentional about your mental health. Don’t just let the stress come and go as it pleases. Have a plan to contain it.

Stress-Free Navigation

Alright, you’ve made it to your destination and out of the airport, and now you are bombarded with a whole different barrage of stressors. How do you find your hotel? What is the best place to get some food? Should you trust that taxi driver? Is this city safe to walk in? These are all valid questions, and good travel planning takes them all into consideration. Let’s look at a few tips to help you navigate a foreign destination for the first time and do it without unnecessary stress. 

14. Carry snacks.

You cannot think straight or control your emotions when you are hungry. Plus, finding food in a new destination is stressful and often expensive around the airport. Keep your wits about you by having a day’s worth of snacks handy in your carry-on bag. It’s a simple act that can really save you ( and your travel companions) from mishaps and arguments.

15. Get good travel insurance.

Travel insurance is worth the peace of mind for nervous travelers. It’s often available through your credit card or even your booking site when you purchase your airline tickets or vacation combo package. If you are using a travel agency, they usually provide it as well. It really doesn’t cost that much, and it protects your valuables from being lost, stolen, or broken. Good travel insurance will also cover catastrophic health issues and return flights home in the case of a disaster. They usually cover lost baggage and trip cancellations as well, so you can travel without worrying about all that mess.

16. Take a taxi or Uber when you arrive.

When you first arrive in a new place, don’t try to navigate the public transit or walk to your destination with all your baggage. Bite the budget bullet and book an Uber. If it’s available, Uber is generally cheaper than a taxi. Plus, you can book ahead of time, so you don’t have to haggle with the taxi driver about the price (which can be really stressful in some destinations). Take some time when you first land to utilize the airport wifi and book your rideshare, or you can plan to have a hotel shuttle pick you up after your flight. Save yourself the stress and take the easy route until you get settled.

17. Know your route before you go.

This little tip applies to your whole trip! Before you get in the taxi, pull up the shortest route on Google Maps or Waze. Before you go out exploring for the day, map out your sights on Google Maps and become familiar with the route, or take screenshots of the directions. Download an offline city map so you always have an idea where you are, even without wifi. 

This tip will not only save you time as you won’t be wandering in circles, but it keeps you safer as well. You can avoid streets that are too busy, find the shortest most direct walking routes, and avoid parts of town that you don’t need to be in. If you are using public transit, know which bus or rail line you need and what times it comes. A little research the night before can make your next day trip way less stressful! 

We also suggest you map out several restaurants in advance. Finding a place to eat is the number one battle in most marriages and families. Before your trip, research restaurants that you want to try and put them on your map. Then, you’ll already have places picked out and can stop in the one that’s the closest to you when you get hungry. Stress-free travel tip numero uno is do not get hangry!

18. Always carry some cash.

Finding money is not always easy, depending on your destination. While credit card usage around the world is increasing, it’s still not universal. It’s never a bad idea to stop at an ATM when you see one or grab some cash at the airport so that you have some when you need to catch a bus.

19. Get a local sim card for your phone.

Carry an extra phone and grab a local sim card, either at the airport or near your hotel. This allows you the best internet access, and many companies like Vodaphone offer short plans for tourists. They have big data packages and unlimited social media for very cheap prices. 

20. Have a plan, but don’t overdo it.

Planning the major points of your vacation can put you at ease. If you are a nervous traveler, then you will likely do better if you aren’t booking things on the fly. Before you leave for your trip, book all your accommodations, major transportation between cities, and any bucket-list activities that you know you want to do. While it might not be the most budget-friendly way to do it, you’ll save yourself stress.

On the flip side of that coin, don’t plan everything down to the minute. Give yourself some wiggle room to “stop and smell the roses” so to speak. Having an activity in each 15-minute slot might make you feel better, but in the end, it’s likely to stress out your travel companions and you. Constantly hurrying to get to the next booking doesn’t allow you to enjoy the moment, so give yourself a few slots in the day to sit in a cafe and people watch or spend a little longer in that museum than you thought you needed. 

21. Research the culture.

If you are traveling to a destination for the first time, research the culture and atmosphere of the area. Culture shock is a real thing, and it can add major stress to your vacation. If you are traveling somewhere with a high poverty level, look at some pictures before you go and allow your brain to adjust.

Research “common scams” in your destination so you know what to look out for. The last thing you want is to be stranded on the side of the road, with a knifed rental car tire, and no wallet or phone. Research customs like whether you should tip or not and how much, and if taxi cabs have meters or not. Research which areas of the city you should stay away from and what the money exchange rate should be (or download an exchange app on your phone) . The more you know about your destination, the less nasty surprises you get upon arrival.

Closing Thoughts

Travel is always going to be a bit stressful, but it doesn’t have to overwhelm you. Putting these tips into practice, and, in general, being as prepared as possible, can save you major panic. What are your favorite tips for stress-free travel? Let us know in the comments.

Ready to start travel planning? Check out our checklist of “ Things To Do Before Going On Vacation .”

For more tips on navigating the airport with ease, take a peek at our list of “ The Dos and Don’ts of Airline Travel. ”

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel can be stressful! Having an organized packing system , memorizing your passport number, using the Verifly app, and researching your destination’s culture can help you enjoy stress-free travel !

Many people suffer from hodophobia—the fear of traveling, which really boils down to the fear of the unknown. Following tips for stress-free travel and using soothing music or meditations can help.

We know travel can be stressful , but it doesn’t have to be! You can see the world without reservations using the Let’s Roam app to sightsee on fun-filled scavenger hunts .

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15 Holiday Travel Tips for a Less Stressful Festive Season

These holiday travel tips will help you navigate the most wonderful (and hectic) time of year.

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Traveling during the holidays may bring you joy, but it's not without its challenges. It usually means you’re off to see your loved ones or heading to the vacation destination of your dreams to end the year right. But so are millions of other people, which can make for a rather stressful experience in airports and train stations or on the road.

Along with the crowds (not to mention trying to book flights during one of the most popular travel periods), other potential complications include transporting gifts and food and dealing with bad weather. But fear not — we’re here to help. Here are 15 tips that will help you navigate the intricacies of holiday travel, so you can spend less time worrying and more time celebrating.

China News Service/Getty Images

Set price alerts and book flights early.

If you’re planning to fly for the holiday season, it's best to book your tickets as early as possible. As  Travel + Leisure previously reported , the prime time to book flights for the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays is typically in September. If you're still waiting to score the best deal, set up price alerts on sites like  Skyscanner , then click “buy” when the price is right for you.

Reserve your rental car ahead of time.

Car rental prices can fluctuate a lot. For this reason, it's smart to reserve your vehicle early (preferably with a company that allows free cancellations) and keep your eye on any price drops. If you're looking to save money, explore opportunities to get a discount through frequent flier and membership programs. You can also lower your bill by renting a car from a non-airport location, opting for a smaller or manual transmission vehicle, and forgoing pricey add-ons like GPS navigation and satellite radio systems.

Be flexible on dates (and airports).

If you have some flexibility on when you travel, expand your search to include a few days either side of your ideal departure and return dates. Certain days around the holidays, such as the Sunday after Thanksgiving , are notoriously busy, so picking a less crowded day to fly can help you save big on airfare. Another way to reduce costs when flying? Choosing to fly out of a large airport with more flights at competitive prices.  According to travel booking site Going.com , big hubs like Los Angeles International Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport ranked among the best for scoring a deal.

Consider less-visited destinations.

If you’re visiting family or friends, you can’t change where they live, so ignore this tip. However, if you’re thinking of setting off on vacation, try broadening your horizons. Looking for some fun in the sun over the holidays? Rather than going to ultra-popular destinations like Cabo, try alternative locations with fewer crowds and potentially more affordable options. For example, you could head to the equally alluring Todos Santos , just an hour's drive from Cabo San Lucas. There, you’ll find a slower pace in a town with more bohemian flair, and plenty of vacation rental options for you and your crew to keep costs down. The same goes for winter ski destinations. Forgo the big ski mountains for lesser-visited spots that may not come with all the bells and whistles but still have all the powder stashes you’re after.

Book with points.

The holidays are the ideal time to  use those points  you’ve been racking up all year long on your credit card. And we know you’ve likely got points waiting because, according to a rather shocking Lending Tree study , a whopping 70 percent of U.S. rewards credit card holders have unused rewards in the form of either cash back, points, or miles. Note that some credit cards and loyalty programs may have blackout dates or other restrictions around the holidays, so check your policy in advance.

Choose direct flights.

Winter is an unpredictable season that comes with snowstorms and delays. Try to always book direct flights to lessen your chances of missing a connection along the way. And if you’re in close enough proximity to your destination, forgo planes altogether and opt for a train or bus instead. 

Splurge on lounge access.

Since airports are generally busier during the holidays, you'll want to arrive at least two hours before your flight. Rather than trying to find a seat in the crowd while waiting to board, use this as your excuse to splurge on entry to an exclusive lounge. First-class flights usually include lounge access, but those in economy can often upgrade, purchase a pass, or  check their credit card  to see if it's an included perk. Better yet, try  Priority Pass , a yearly service that can help you access some of the  best airport lounges . 

Pack gifts in your carry-on.

Losing a checked bag, to put it bluntly, sucks. Now, imagine losing a checked bag filled with all the gifts you so diligently purchased for your nieces, nephews, aunts, grandparents, and more. To safeguard against this, pack your presents in your carry-on. Even better, if you're able to travel light, avoid checking a bag altogether. That way, you'll reduce your chances of losing anything along the way. Plus, you'll be able to leave the airport faster because you won’t have to wait forever at the baggage carousel.

Know the rules about flying with holiday items.

If you're traveling with gifts, leave them unwrapped. Otherwise, if your wrapped gift raises any red flags with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), they will be forced to unwrap it at security, undoing all your hard work. You could also avoid this hassle by shipping your gifts ahead of time. You'll also want to be cautious when flying with food items since some liquids, such as large quantities of gravy or cranberry sauce, aren't allowed in your carry-on. Consult the " What Can I Bring? " section of the TSA website and pack your solid food items in clear containers for easy inspection at security.

Have a backup plan in case things go wrong.

It’s Murphy’s Law: Everything that can go wrong, will go wrong. That’s why it’s a good idea to have backups on backups when it comes to holiday travel. This starts with opting in for travel insurance, which can be bought through airlines or various providers. Check with your credit card provider first to see if it’s already included in your purchase. If not, you'll want to look at all the options — including “cancel for any reason” policies and standard options that cover everything from canceled flights to lost baggage — to find the one that fits your needs.

Next, try to create an alternate route to your destination in case your flight gets canceled. See how far the drive is, check bus and train routes, or have an entirely different plan B option for your holiday celebration (like a staycation) so you don’t feel like you’re missing out.

If you’re driving, be sure to get a tune-up.

Driving in the winter can be just as stressful as flying. Not only do you have to think about the various weather patterns, but you also have to contend with millions of others on the road. And the last thing you need is your vehicle breaking down at an inopportune time. Get a quick tune-up before setting off for your holiday trip.

Make use of all the apps.

You know what’s great about living in the 21st century? All. The. Apps. This holiday season, use every app in your phone’s arsenal — from apps for finding last-minute flights and hotels to your favorite streaming platforms (Netflix, Hulu, HBO, etc.), along with map apps to keep you on track. Download movies, add your flight info to your phone’s wallet, and keep directions handy so you’ll be prepared for everything and stay entertained even on long-haul flights.

Check the opening hours at your destination’s attractions.

You’re not the only one on holiday break. So are hospitality and attraction workers. Before heading off to your must-see destinations, take note of holiday hours. Businesses will often have condensed hours or closed days to ensure their staff gets time off, too. 

Make reservations at all the restaurants you plan to visit.

We’ve said it before and we'll say it again: Traveling during the holidays requires planning. That applies to restaurants, too. Have a spot you’re dying to try? Make reservations for the holiday season so you have a guaranteed place to eat. 

Be ready to tackle stress and spread joy instead.

Hopefully, all that preparation will help keep you calm while traveling this holiday season. If you need a little help relaxing, try downloading a few meditation apps, such as Headspace or Calm , to use during your journey. This way, you can breathe through any stress and anxiety and focus on staying positive for yourself, your family, and all your fellow travelers just trying to get to their destinations. 

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Breathe into wellness with travel inspiration

Stress-Free Travel: Here’s How To Keep Calm and Travel On

Last updated April 4, 2024

It’s a fact. Whether business or pleasure, travel is stressful. In addition to planning and packing for a trip, the actual traveling to and from a destination can induce travel stress.

Add to this the current health climate—well, it seems that stress and anxiety are here to stay for some time.

From delays at the airport to staying in a strange environment, travel stress can mount and ultimately affect your well-being.

With a little preparation and commitment, though, there are a number of ways to reduce travel stress.

Seven Stress Less Techniques

If the goal is for stress-free travel, you can make use of various techniques both before and during your trip. Some of these require anticipating what factors might trigger your travel stress. Others are simply good practices that promote not only a stress-free trip but also generalized wellness.

With this in mind, the following seven tips for stress-free travel should be considered. Depending on your specific triggers, you might choose to incorporate some or all of them.

But in any case, these seven practices have the potential to make your journey a pleasant one.

1. Allow Extra Time During Your Journey

Many times, travel stress is caused by a simple lack of time to manage travel challenges. One of the best techniques is to simply allow yourself extra time during your journey for stress-free travel experiences. 

2. Anticipate (and Plan) for Travel Challenges

Some travel challenges can be predicted just based on past experiences. With a little forethought and planning, you can enjoy stress-free travel by anticipating what’s to come. 

3. Plan for Useful Distractions

When travel stress occurs, the mind tends to race. This can add insult to injury in terms of anxieties. Having calming distractions (like music) on hand can also help you achieve stress-free travel. 

4. Employ the Power of Positivity

Negativity and complaining only fuels stress and anxiety. Therefore, make your best effort to think positive thoughts or put a positive spin on things. This can often have a significant effect on promoting stress-free travel.

5. Use Calming Breathing Techniques

Breathing exercises are great for all types of anxiety and promote generalized wellness. Experiment by breathing slowly in and out for 10 seconds each. In no time, you will find yourself feeling calm and relaxed. 

6. Identify and Rationalize Your Anxieties

If you start to feel anxious, identify what is triggering your travel stress. In many cases, you can pinpoint the cause and rationalize your way through it. This will reduce your level of travel stress and enhance calmness in the process. 

7. Leverage Physical Relaxation to Reduce Stress

From a holistic health perspective, the mind and body are certainly connected. Trying to physically relax tense muscles and postures through yoga can also help reduce travel stress. 

So the next time you feel travel stress starting to mount, test out some of the above strategies to help you stay calm and stress-free. In all likelihood, you will have a much more enjoyable trip as a result. 

About Vacayou

At Vacayou [pronounced VACAY – YOU], we believe that travel has the power to change lives. The power to revive, rejuvenate and redirect your inner wellness warrior . And that’s why we’re here. Vacayou brings the world of wellness travel to you! No matter how far or how adventurous, our team scours the globe to curate the best in wellness travel. But the booking process can often be time-consuming and complicated. We’ve made it much easier for you to search, discover, and book wellness and active vacations . With Vacayou’s Instant Book, your dream wellness getaway is now just one click away . Start the trip of your lifetime today, with Vacayou . We are here to help create a healthier global community through wellness and active travel. To keep up with the latest wellness trends and experiences, be sure to  subscribe to our newsletter . 

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How to Plan Your Best Vacation Yet

I bet you didn’t know this about me—I’m a 24/7 travel planner.

Of course, that’s because we travel full-time in the RV ! So I have a lot of experience over the past year (going on two!) as an RVer.

But even before we started living the RV lifestyle, Joseph and I made weekend and week-long getaways a priority. We’ve always had a hankering for adventure … but not so much spontaneity.

It just so happens that ironing out the details of a trip ahead of time fuels the research-lover and planner in me just as much as the experience! Especially if I can do it on the cheap.

So whether you can relate OR planning all the details isn’t your favorite thing in the world (you’d just rather pin pretty vacation spots and go already! ) I’d like to help you focus on the three most important elements of any memorable trip so you can enjoy stress-free travel!

• Where to go and when
• The best places to book lodging
• How to plan a custom-to-you itinerary that you’ll LOVE

That way, you can spend less time planning and more time anticipating all the fun you’ll have once you get there.

Although for me, the two often go hand in hand. 😉

Table of Contents:

The most important thing to know first.

• Choose Your Destination
• Decide When to Go
• Book Your Accommodations
• Draw Up Your Itinerary
• FREE RESOURCE: Editable Packing List

The Internet abounds with sample itineraries and lists of the best places to visit . Offline, well-meaning friends share all the spots they enjoyed about your upcoming destination (sometimes without asking if you want to hear about them!).

And visitor centers will load you up with more pamphlets of areas to see than you can possibly fit in one week.

I don’t know about you, but all those options send me into overthinking oblivion as I stress about all the things I might miss!

But our goal today is stress-free travel! And the best way to filter the places you will enjoy is to know your vacation style ahead of time.

What do I mean by vacation style?

Well, when you dream about your best vacation EVER, what does it look like?

• Are you out exploring new places every day or would you rather lounge by the hotel pool or beach and read for hours?
• Do you prefer museums or the outdoors or popping in and out of small town boutique shops?
• Do you want to hit up all the touristy spots or experience hidden gems located off the beaten bath?

Maybe you like a healthy balance of all those things. Knowing your preferences ahead of time will make planning your trip so much easier.

This is also helpful to define expectations if you’re thinking about vacationing with other people and their style is completely different than yours!

Want a fun way to save up for your vacation? Don’t miss these ultra-creative savings tracker ideas!

Step 1: Choose Your Stress-Free Travel Destination

This one is a no-brainer if you already have a travel bucket list carefully written down in Evernote or a few must-see spots lingering in the back of your mind.

If you don’t have any ideas yet, now is the time to start collecting them!

Stumped? Think of your friends who post gorgeous vacation photos on social media. Write down the places they’ve visited that you’re dying to go, too! Don’t forget to search popular travel blogs and Instagram accounts.

My favorites are:

• Less Junk, More Journey
• YTravel Blog
• Open Roading (had to include my own vlog in this list, of course!)

One of the reasons why I chose the RV life is because there are so many places I want to see in my lifetime and it made more sense (cost-wise too!) to visit them this way rather than hop from one Airbnb to another.

But don’t forget to take into account your budget as well.

A smaller budget might mean more road trips. A larger one might include plane tickets and international travel. That’s not to say you can’t travel via plane on the cheap, but how you will travel will often determine where you go.

If you’re curious about whether it’s cheaper to fly or drive, this post breaks down all the costs you need to consider .

Step 2: Decide When to Go

Choosing a time to go on your vacation involves more than just picking a week on your calendar and submitting a vacation request.

If you have kids in school, then you’ll need to think about their schedule, of course, and summer/holiday breaks will probably be the more convenient times to pack up and explore as a family.

But don’t forget to consider peak season and temperatures .

I’ll give you just two examples of why this matters for stress-free travel:

• Florida is PACKED from December to March, so you’ll need to make reservations early if you plan to visit during that time.
• Death Valley National Park in Nevada jumps into the 100’s during June to August, so it might be better to explore this area before May.

Plus more popular times will also mean more crowds and require earlier-in-the-day arrivals.

At Glacier National Park, we pulled into the Logan Pass parking lot at 7:30am and were too late. We had to walk a mile to the start of our hiking trail from another location down the road. (And then the actual hike was 12 miles!)

It was worth it though. 🙂

Step 3: Book Your Accommodations

Gone are the days where our only options were hotels! When we’re not RVing, Joseph and I LOVE to stay in Airbnbs .

Airbnb has come a long way from staying in a stranger’s random guest room (which we have never done and never want to do, thank you very much).

On Airbnb , you can filter your search so you have the whole place to yourself. And you often get even better lodging than you would at a hotel for the same (or cheaper) price tag.

Recently we stayed in a lovely condo in NC for $70/night—ONE BLOCK from the beach. All the hotels in the area were over $100 for cookie cutter rooms.

Other lodging options include:

• Hotels. Obviously! But try to stay in the same company line so you can earn rewards faster OR book through Hotels.com . This site even rewards frequent users with free nights so you can enjoy more stress-free travel!
• Campgrounds. Whether you own an RV or rent one, you’ll find plenty of free and paid campgrounds listed on Campendium.com along with user photos and reviews.
• VRBO. I’ve never personally booked a Vacation Rental By Owner spot but have friends who regularly find amazing deals through this site!
• Bed & Breakfasts. Introverts beware—you usually eat breakfast around a dining table with other folks. But you usually stay in some really cute rooms.
• Hostels. If you’re traveling internationally and don’t mind sharing a room with others on the cheap, you might want to comb through HostelBookers.com .

Step 4: Draw Up Your Itinerary

This planning step is my absolute favorite part—deciding what to do on your trip!

You probably have an idea in mind depending on your destination, but if not, here are my favorite hacks to load up your list:

• Search “things to do in [LOCATION]” on Google or Pinterest.
• Visit the area’s tourist website (town, national park, etc.)
• Check out Instagram hashtags for the locale you’re visiting. For example, #CharlestonSC or #WilmingtonBeach! You never know what you might find that’s not on any of the must-not-miss lists.

Keeping your vacation style in mind, jot down all the ideas that interest you and your family as options.

Many itineraries feature a day-by-day, hour-by-hour schedule, which I personally think is way too rigid . You’re on vacation (stress-free travel, remember?)! You don’t want one extra long traffic jam to have the ability to derail your entire day.

For the sake of your budget (and sanity!) plan ONE epic excursion, then fill in the rest of your days with smaller sights (based on what you’re feeling that day … or the weather) as well as time for margin and rest.

If I’m feeling super creative, I’ll list our itinerary in my bullet journal, but I’ve been having SO much fun playing in my new favorite app, Notion , that I created my own Travel Planner inside!

Notion allows me to link text to more information and screenshot directions. Not every national park is GPS-friendly! I also like to include where we are staying and any confirmation numbers so they are easy to grab.

Plus, I can access Notion on any device. Think of it as Evernote, but way better!

STEP 5: Have the time of your life!

There’s nothing quite like exploring a brand new corner of the world (or anticipating the arrival of an upcoming trip!).

And if you’ve ever experienced planning anxiety over the actual logistics of getting there, I hope this guide helps you break down the process in a fun and step-by-step way so you can enjoy stress-free travel.

Related: The Top 5 Best Souvenirs For Minimalists

Now you just need to decide what to pack.

Pin this post to reference later:

Let’s chat in the comments!

Disclosure: Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers.  Read my full disclosure policy here.

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Perfect timing on planning vacations! I am looking for a vacation place this summer that’s not too far away from us (we live in Florida). I saw your BuJo page on Charleston, SC. I’ll have to look into it. Did you enjoy your trip there?

We loved our trip to Charleston! Only wish we had more time to explore.

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I’m a Travel Editor Who Gets Major Pre-Trip Anxiety. These Are My Coping Tools.

A love of travel doesn’t automatically translate into a seamless journey. for those who battle with serious pretravel worries, one travel editor offers ways she has found to lessen the stress..

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How can the thing one loves the most cause so much stress?

Illustration by Shutterstock

Planning, booking, packing, and then heading out for a trip—big or small—is a roller coaster of emotions for me. The planning and booking phases are usually a caffeine-fueled euphoria. Somewhere within my complex travel-decision math lies a formula that factors in all parties involved (typically myself, my husband, and our two young kids, ages five and seven) and whether we will all have a good time, whether the time frame fits into our work and school schedules, and whether the destination is calling to me (don’t ask me how this last one works, it’s almost a spiritual experience?).

Finally, the trip is booked. Is there a better feeling than this? The days, weeks, or months following the booking period are spent marinating in my accomplishment and wondering if my family realizes how lucky they are to have such an astute trip planner within their ranks.

But then, the tides start to turn a little, usually at around 3 a.m., as the departure date begins to near. I suddenly wake up in the middle of the night, and the doubts creep in. Did I choose the right destination? What if someone gets sick? Is the flight time too early? Is the connection too tight? Do we have all the gear we need?

The truth is, my pretravel anxiety has gotten a lot worse since I’ve become a parent, for a couple reasons: (1) I’m responsible for additional human beings now, and (2) kids (especially small kids) get sick a lot . The latter one is key because it emphasizes a loss of control over the situation, which is hard for me to grapple with. Control is a big factor when it comes to anxiety, at least for me. The notion that we could wake up on the day of our flight and one of the kids might have a fever or start puking is just a smidge more than my nerves can handle at times. Unfortunately, that means that leading up to a trip, I start not just getting stressed but also having anxiety attacks that can result in everything from frustration and rage to tears of overwhelm, necessitating meditation and box breathing to calm myself and ideally get us out the door with some semblance of the hope and optimism that conjured the trip in the first place.

It has gotten so bad that I have literally whispered to my rattled self as I stumble over the trip-departure finish line in veritable shambles, “I’m never doing this again.”

Once we are on our way, however, like the Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde of mental health struggles, I’m in heaven. My absolute happiest place is heading out on a new adventure to explore the great unknown. Because I love it so much, not only will I never give it up, but also I’ve been working on ways to minimize my pretravel stress and anxiety. Here are some of the things that have helped me.

Recognizing that the anxiety exists

For me, the first step in conquering my pretravel anxiety has been recognizing that it exists and getting a better sense of the patterns and triggers. It kind of snuck up on me after I became a parent, so it took me a while to be like, “Oh, I get extremely stressed before trips now. This is new.” But once I did, I could better identify the recurring nature of these episodes and explain what was happening to my spouse (in a calmer way than by hysterical tears as we headed out the door).

Organizing my home

What does cleaning the house have to do with leaving the house? In my anxious mind, everything. If the house is cluttered, my brain is cluttered, and I get increasingly flustered and frustrated. I have found that spending the time to get the house into decent order before I start packing is worth the effort for the amount of stress it reduces. It comes with the major benefit of returning to a home that is not in a state of full-blown chaos. Prior to my uptick in pre-trip anxiety, cleaning and organizing my abode predeparture was an optional bonus activity. But I’ve come to realize that it is now nonnegotiable, and I have carved in the time to make it happen.

Starting to pack far in advance

Now that the house is decently clean, it’s time to start packing. Scrambling to complete all the packing and other to-dos for an on-time departure (I’m an early-to-the-airport girlie, after all) only adds to my pretravel anxiety. That’s because it inevitably takes more time than I think it will. And any need to rush or do too many things at once starts to pile on to my feelings of overwhelm. Given that, I have taken to pulling out the suitcases at least a week or two in advance so that I can start filling them up little by little, which reduces the last-minute stress.

My packing lists for myself and my kids are ingrained in my mind at this point, but I do keep an ongoing packing list in my Notes app to help ensure I remember everything. I especially rely on it for more complicated trips—for instance, a longer trip abroad or to a hot or cold destination where we need water or snow gear that we don’t usually pack. I don’t use the list for every trip, but it’s there for when I do need it or start to feel overwhelmed.

I also use the laundry day up to about one week before our travels as an opportunity to sort all the clean clothes directly into luggage. Rather than put those clothes away only to have to pull them out again to pack, I fold them up, and into the suitcases they go. If it’s a road trip, the same can apply to any gear and dry foods we plan to bring. Gear can be added to the back of the minivan (aka the world’s best travel car), and the sandwich bread, peanut butter, spaghetti, and sauce are piled into our Yeti cooler bag (don’t ask me why we use a cooler bag for dry goods—progress, not perfection, right?) several days before departure.

Making peace with the worst-case scenario(s)

What causes me much pre-trip stress, especially in recent years, is my internal battle with “the worst-case scenario,” which in my mind is usually medical: an unforeseen illness or injury that derails the entire trip before or during our travels. But, as with many other fears , there’s nothing I, or anyone, can do about this (it’s a fictional future scenario!).

So, I decided that rather than resist the spiraling, I embrace the spiraling. I take the “what if” thought process all the way to the end zone. Perhaps one of the kids does wake up with a massive fever. We can’t fly. Now what? Well, we’ll have to cancel or postpone the flights and hotels. We might lose some money. Maybe we’ll lose a lot of money. Okay, well, we have credit cards with some degree of coverage, and we have travel insurance. (While we don’t invest in travel insurance for simple road trips and such, we do when we purchase four pricey round-trip flights for domestic or international travel.) We’ll recover what we can. So what? No big deal. Life will go on.

I’ll engage in this exercise with any fear or concern that crops up. I’ve found this to be much more effective than trying to suppress those worries, which then haunt the back chambers of my mind, spurring mounting nervousness. With this method, I regain some sense of control when faced with anxious thoughts about all the things that could go wrong—because we all know that what we think will go wrong is not, in fact, what will actually go wrong (but that’s a whole other can of anxiety worms).

Packing an anti-anxiety tool kit

Whatever is causing me to worry regarding my travels, I like to think about what I can have on hand to tackle those issues head-on during the trip. I keep returning to health issues because that is the root of a lot of my recent pre-trip anxiety, but this hack can be applied to other anxiety-inducing concerns as well. It helps me to pack a thermometer (this Braun no-touch thermometer , our go-to for years, has been around the world with us) and children’s Tylenol in our carry-on, along with a plastic bag in case someone gets sick to their stomach. This makes me feel a bit less helpless at the thought of a health problem arising suddenly when we’re on the move.

If I’m worried about connectivity at our destination, maybe it’s as simple as bringing an old-fashioned fold-up map to know that we’ll still be able to get around if I lose access to Google Maps (the horror). To find road maps, head to your nearest AAA office, and they’ll help you. If I’m worried about getting enough sleep, having a sleep mask, noise-canceling headphones , and a great travel pillow helps me to believe I’ll find a way to settle into snooze mode.

I find that just having these tools on me is enough to stave off at least some of the stress—a sort of travel anxiety security blanket, if you will. (I like to think that it brings me better luck, too. You know, the whole bring-an-umbrella-so-it-won’t-rain idea.)

Embracing the pitfalls

In some weird way, I kind of love it when things do (occasionally) go wrong on the road and the so-called worst-case scenario finally (gasp!) happens: when my husband does twist his ankle on our last night in Mexico before our full day of flying home, or when we do miss a flight connection. Travel has an amazing ability to show us what we’re made of. And when things go sideways, we can look back and say, “Hey, we got through that. We can get through almost anything.” I always tell my kids that travel teaches us how to problem-solve in situations that we don’t get to experience at home, and that’s a big part of what makes it so interesting and exciting. Ultimately, those tougher moments help inform my ongoing struggles with anxiety as I carry with me the knowledge that the trip was, indeed, worth it after all.

Dave's Travel Pages

Greek Island Hopping | Greece Travel Ideas | Bicycle Touring

15 Useful Tips For Stress Free Travel – Less Drama, More Fun!

Travel doesn't need to be stressful – especially after you've read our 15 tips for a stress free travel experience!

How to travel stress free

Are you feeling stressed out at the thought of your summer vacation? Relax! There are plenty of ways to make your trip go smoothly and without any drama.

No one wants to deal with the headache of travel stress – whether it's for business or pleasure. After all, vacations are supposed to be a time to relax and rejuvenate! But sometimes, the planning process (and even the journey itself) can be anything but relaxing.

If you're looking for ways to reduce stress before, during, and after your travels, I've got 15 travel tips to help you out.

1. Plan ahead

This one might seem obvious, but it's worth repeating: plan ahead ! The more you can plan in advance, the less likely you are to run into stressful situations.

If you're flying, book your tickets as early as possible to get the best rates. Once you have your flights booked, start thinking about other important details like accommodation, transportation, and activities.

You'll also want to make sure your important documents like passport, travel insurance, and boarding passes are in line. The last thing you want is to be scrambling at the last minute to get everything in order.

Related: How to plan a travel budget

2. Make a packing list

Packing can be one of the most stressful parts of travel, especially if you're trying to pack light. And especially so if you are leaving it all until the last minute!

To make things easier on yourself, create a packing list in advance. Way in advance! This way, you know exactly what you need to take with you on your trip and can buy items in advance if you don't already have them.

One useful tip is not to overpack. You might think you need six pairs of shoes and three weeks' worth of clothes, but chances are you'll only end up wearing a fraction of what you bring. Not to mention, lugging around a giant suitcase is no fun. Also, remember to leave room to bring back gifts and souvenirs from your trip!

Check out this international travel packing checklist for some ideas on what to take.

3. Pad your itinerary with extra time

One way to mitigate stress is to give yourself more time than you think you need. This way, if things run behind schedule (and they often do), you won't be left scrambling to catch up.

For example, if you have flight connections, make sure to give yourself plenty of time in between. I recommend at least 2-3 hours, especially if you have to change terminals or get a connecting flight. Never underestimate how long it takes to move through the security line, especially if flying during peak season!

The same goes for any other activities on your itinerary. If you're planning on going sightseeing, leave some extra time in case you run into crowds or get lost. No one wants to be rushing around on vacation! Arriving early for things will also help you avoid the stress of being late.

Related: 20 Reasons To Travel Around The World

4. Travel during the off-season

If you can, travel during the shoulder or low season. Not only will you find cheaper rates on flights and the best deal on accommodation , but you'll also avoid the crowds. And that means fewer stressful situations!

Of course, this isn't always possible. If you're restricted to school holidays or other peak times, don't worry – there are still plenty of ways to reduce stress while traveling.

Related: Reasons Why Long Term Travel Is Cheaper Than Regular Vacations

5. Join a tour group

One great tip, and a way to meet people and see the sights without having to worry about planning everything yourself is to join a tour group. There are all sorts of different tour groups available, from food tours to history tours, so you can find one that suits your interests.

This is a great option if you're traveling solo, but it's also fun to do with family or friends. And it takes a lot of the stress out of planning!

I recommend Get Your Guide for city tours and day trips. It saves all the hassle of organizing transport to attractions yourself, and you get the benefit of a professional guide. It's a way to make life easier and see more at the same time.

Related: Benefits of solo travel

6. Choose your accommodation wisely

Finding good hotels can sometimes be a stressful endeavor. Where you stay can make or break your vacation. If you're looking for a stress-free experience, it's worth spending a little extra to stay somewhere comfortable and convenient. Having a good sleep always makes the day go better.

For example, if you're traveling with family, you might want to choose a hotel with kids club facilities so you can have some time to yourself. If you're looking for a romantic getaway, you might want to splurge on a luxury hotel. And if you're on a budget, there are plenty of great hostels that won't break the bank.

Location is also important. You want to be close to the things to do, but also not in any areas or neighborhoods that make you feel unsafe when you walk. For example, I always recommend that when visiting Athens, people try to stay in the historic center as it's close to all the main places to see in Athens .

The important thing is to find somewhere that suits your needs and makes you feel comfortable.

Next read: Camping Instagram Captions

7. Foreign Currency and Bank Cards

If you're traveling to a foreign country, the most important thing you can do before you leave, is to make sure you have your finances sorted. This means getting foreign currency and organizing your bank cards.

Getting foreign currency can be a bit of a hassle, but it's worth doing in advance so you don't have to worry about it when you're on vacation. You can either get it from your bank or exchange it at the airport. I usually recommend getting a mix of both cash and cards, as you never know when you might need one or the other.

As for your bank cards, it's important not to forget to let your bank know that you'll be traveling so they don't flag any unusual activity on your account. You should also make sure you have a backup card in case you lose your primary card while you're away.

While you don't want to carry too much money on you at any one time, it's always a good idea to have some cash in case of emergencies.

8. Buy travel insurance

This is something I always recommend, whether you're traveling for business or pleasure. No one likes to think about what could go wrong on their trip, but it's always better to be safe than sorry if you like stress free travel!

I've had to use my travel insurance a few times when bags didn't arrive when I did at my destination (read my account of when I flew to Alaska here!) and I'm so glad I had it!

There are all sorts of different travel insurance policies available, so make sure you read the fine print to find one that suits your needs in the part of the world you'll travel to.

Also read: Common Travel Mistakes And What Not To Do When Traveling

9. Travel with just carry on if you can

It might not be practical for every vacation or trip you make, but traveling with just a carry on bag on a plane has many advantages. Not only do you not have to worry about lost luggage, but you also don't have to waste time waiting at the baggage conveyor belt.

Who needs the extra weight of checked baggage to lug around? Pack light, and you'll be thanking yourself later!

If you travel with just carry on on your next trip, you might also be able to check-in online which can save you time at the airport.

If you do decide to check in luggage, maybe consider getting a luggage tracker. Read my review here: GEGO GPS Tracker

10. Prebook an airport transfer to your hotel

Arriving in a new place after a long flight can be daunting, especially if you don't speak the local language. The last thing you want is to have to figure out public transport with all your luggage in tow.

The best way to avoid this stressful situation is to book an airport transfer in advance. This way, someone will be there waiting for you when you arrive, and they'll take you straight to your hotel. No fuss, no stress!

Related: Snacks to take on a plane

11. Download some travel apps

Do you know how Google maps works offline? Are there any other apps you can download before your trip to make things easier? Find out and download them onto your phone before you go.

For example, in Greece you can download the Ferryhopper app that shows you all the ferry schedules so you can easily plan your island hopping adventures.

You might also like to read: Advantages and Disadvantages of Traveling by Plane

12. Buy some travel essentials

Sometimes, it's the simplest things that can take the stress out of a situation. For example, you don't want your phone battery to die when you're out sightseeing. Solution? Buy a portable charger or powerbank . Concerned the water might not be safe to drink? Take a water filter bottle.

Another travel essential I always pack is a mini first-aid kit. This has come in handy on many occasions, from treating a headache to relieving insect bites.

Related: Can you take a powerbank on a plane?

13. Read up on local customs and etiquette

If you're traveling to a country with a different culture to your own, it's always a good idea to do some research ahead of time. This way, you can avoid any potential cultural faux pas and make sure you respect local customs.

For example, in Japan it's considered very rude to be late, while in Greece it's considered impolite to refuse a drink when someone offers you one.

14. Learn some key phrases in the local language

This ties in with the previous point. If you can't speak the local language, learning some key phrases will go a long way in helping you to communicate with people and avoid any misunderstandings.

It doesn't have to be anything too complicated. Just being able to say please and thank you can make all the difference.

15. Relax and go with the flow

Finally, the most important thing to remember when traveling is to relax and go with the flow. Things might not always go according to plan, but that's all part of the adventure.

Traveling can be a lot of fun, but it can also be stressful if you're not prepared. By following the great tips for stress free travel in this article, you'll be able to travel without any drama and enjoy your time away.

Do you have any suggestions for how to travel stress free? Let us know in the comments below!

Also read: How to live for yourself and travel more

FAQ About Reducing Stress When Traveling

Still have some questions regarding how to avoid stress during travel? These questions and answers might have you covered:

What makes Travelling stressful?

There are a few things that can make travelling stressful: last minute planning, lost luggage, missed flights, and getting sick while away from home. If you can avoid these things, or at least have contingency plans, your trip will be much smoother!

How can I travel without stress?

A few ideas to travel with less stress include: planning ahead, making a packing list, and getting travel insurance. Additionally, try to relax and go with the flow – things rarely go according to plan when you're travelling!

What are some good tips for dealing with travel stress?

Some good tips for reducing stress while travelling include: staying hydrated, eating healthy foods, exercising, and getting enough sleep. Additionally, try to take some time for yourself each day to relax and de-stress.

How do you relax when traveling?

One way to relax when traveling is by staying hydrated. Drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you. Eat healthy foods, get enough sleep, and exercise when possible to help keep your energy up and your stress levels down.

Can Travelling cause stress?

The answer is yes – travelling can cause stress for a variety of reasons. Planning ahead and visualizing what may happen during a trip can help reduce worry and stress. If you're already feeling stressed, try some relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.

Related: Travelling by Car: Advantages and Disadvantages

Also read: Summer vacation quotes

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Stress free travel, can it exist? Maybe with these 5 tips…

When you get back from vacation have you ever felt like you need time to recover? Like a vacation from your vacation? I have… Traveling is fun, and something I clearly love to do but it can be stressful. While we can’t control canceled or delayed flights, flat tires, sick kids, or an AirBnB that went totally wrong, we can do other things to minimize travel stress. However, you first have to know what some of the travel stressors are so you can avoid them to begin with.

Dr. Pete Sulack recently shared some great tips with me on how to reduce stress when traveling. He is a “stress expert” as well as a writer, speaker, and founder of Unhealthy Anonymous . I don’t believe stress free travel can always exist, but these tips can help reduce your stress so you enjoy your vacation and eliminate the need for a post-vacation, vacation.

Five Ways Tips for Stress Free Travel (or at least reduce stress)

Travel stressor #1. unrealistic expectations.

Read the fine print and reviews from people in your same stage of life to ensure you aren’t booking a trip that will fall short of your expectations. Be aware of events like “Spring Break” that might have been fun in your twenties, but not now that you have little children or were looking for a quiet vacation. It will save you a lot of stress to do your research ahead of time.

Realistically assess your limitations. You might feel pressured to take a daylong hike to the top of an active volcano, but if you’re the kind of couple who enjoys a glass of wine and a low-key evening, that’s okay too. (See my post on traveling with seniors for a few more tips.)

Travel Stressor #2. Erroneous Informa tion

You can do all the research and planning possible and still feel disappointment upon arriving to your destination, especially if the folks in charge of the cruise, hotel, spa or trip misrepresent themselves. What do you do in these cases? And how can you salvage the time you have away?

• Report any bad business practices to the local Better Business Bureau.
• Try reasoning with the management. Explain the situation from your point of view and appeal to management with a rational argument. Avoid emotional confrontations and threats as they rarely work in these situations.
• Don’t fully pay in advance. Pay the least amount possible for your accommodations, tours, etc., waiting to see what they are like before you pay in full.

If your trip falls apart when you get there, all is not lost. Some of life’s most memorable experiences happen spontaneously, and this can be one of those times. It’s all about your attitude. If you are stressed out and angry, complaining and miserable, your family will follow suit. If you look around and find something fun to do, you can salvage the experience and teach your children how to make the very best of every circumstance.         

Travel Stressor #3. Failure to Adequately Prepare

This one is not the fault of someone else. It’s all on you. If you haven’t planned for the best but prepared for the worst, then you may encounter stress on your vacation.

Plan for Rainy Days – While napping might sound like a relaxing idea, it’s not your kids’ idea of a good time. Instead, pack a board game or deck of cards, or play a family game of charades.

Plan for Sickness – Germs don’t take a vacation, so be sure to pack over-the-counter remedies for headaches, diarrhea, cuts and scrapes, sore throats and the like. Pack enough prescription meds in case you get delayed on your return, and keep them close by in your carry-on bag.

Plan for Delays, They are Inevitable – Pack snacks in case your flight is delayed or you can’t stop on the road. Single servings of almond butter, nuts, crackers and cheese are good, filling choices.

If you’re traveling by vehicle, keep an emergency kit in the car in case of a breakdown. In addition to keeping plenty of clean water and nonperishable food items on hand. Here are a few ideas for things to keep in your trunk.

Travel Stressor #4. Traveling with Children

If you traveled a lot before you had children, you will need to adjust your expectations – especially in regards to time management. Kids like to explore, they have to use the bathroom frequently and hurrying them can make the situation worse. Instead of pulling out a tablet to occupy them try giving them a camera, journal or coloring book to record the experience.

Travel Stressor #5. You now need a vacation from your vacation

If you feel as if you need time to recharge after a trip, follow these tips guaranteed to short-circuit stress and help you eliminate the need for a post-vacation, vacation.

Structured vs. Unstructured – Time to relax is fun, but too much unstructured free time can cause anxiety or boredom to those used to a routine. Schedule at least one thing every day, even if it’s only to explore the other side of the campground or make a dinner reservation. Giving an activity everyone can look forward to will help boost vacation morale and bring down the stress level.

Relaxing vs. Exploring – Don’t assume that you’re your travel companion wants the same things out of the vacation that you do. You may want to take a nap on the beach and catch some sunshine, while your partner wants to hike, roam or explore. Be clear with each other about your individual expectations, and make a plan so everyone gets what they want. Having a plan like this in place will decrease tension and stress, and will ensure you both will have an enjoyable vacation.

Kid Time vs. Adult Time – Decide how much time you want to spend doing kid-friendly stuff, and how much adult time you need. If you work outside the home, you may be looking forward to spending quality time reconnecting with your kids. On the flipside, your partner may spend every day at home with the kids, and he or she may want some time to reconnect with you without them tagging along. Be conscious of what each of you would like to make time for during a vacation, and add it to the plan. Most resorts have a licensed babysitter service that can help you out for a few hours if you want some time to dress up and go out for the evening.

Reboot vs. Pushing Through – Lastly, it’s okay to take a day to reboot upon your return. You will need to unpack, do laundry and pick up pets, so it’s helpful to build in an extra day after vacation to get caught up and back in the swing of things. You will be more productive at work and home if you feel as if your life is back in order. After you’ve had a day to unwind, reconnect with your family at home – and carry the sweet memories and funny stories of your trip together into the normal, daily walk of life. Having a meal together and ask everyone to share a favorite memory, or have the kids begin to plan the next adventure based on what they did and didn’t like about the trip.

What do you think? Are there other ways you suggest people can reduce stress when traveling? (And do you think stress free travel exists?)

Elaine Schoch is an award-winning travel writer, wine judge, American Wine Specialist and certified by the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET II). At Carpe Travel she shares wine travel destination guides for ALL WINE LOVERS – from novices to experienced pros – to help them plan their wine adventures, arming them with insider tips, must-visit spots, and things to see and do beyond the vines.

One Comment

Great tips! It’s definitely hard to travel stress free with small kids. I get a headache often when traveling with kids. It’s true, I feel like I need a vacation after a vacation.

Comments are closed.

Luxury-travel advisors are in demand as Gen Z and millennials splurge on stress-free, meaningful vacations

• Careers in luxury-travel advising are growing as travelers seek stress-free, high-end experiences.
• Gen Z and millennials are driving the growth, seeing vacation spending as a worthy expense.
• This article is part of " Trends to Bet Your Career On ," a series about trending professional opportunities.

The internet has revolutionized the way people research and book travel. Travelers now have access to hotel- and flight-booking platforms, travel content on social media, travel blogs, and travel publications.

Today's travelers, especially those seeking luxury experiences, don't always want to wade through all that information. Consequently, the travel-advisor industry has experienced significant growth in recent years , especially among Gen Z and millennial travelers . According to Grand View Research, the global luxury-travel market is worth an estimated $1.3 trillion and expected to grow 7.9% from 2024 to 2030 .

Luxury travelers are not necessarily looking for the best deals but the best way to plan a trip without the hassle. This is where a luxury-travel advisor comes in. Agents can provide personalized itineraries, access to upgrades and selective experiences, and support throughout the trip.

Business Insider talked to three luxury-travel advisors about the industry's growth and how to transition into travel advising.

Why the luxury-travel industry is booming

Diana Hechler, the owner of D. Tours Travel , said the luxury-travel industry has grown because travelers have access to more luxury-level properties, and more people are willing to pay luxury prices. Also, a vacation is seen as a necessity for Gen Z travelers .

"People are booking vacations more than ever and want them to be stress-free and restorative. And nothing does that better than luxury travel," Hechler told BI. "Despite the higher prices, the segment of travelers that want luxury and are willing to pay for it has grown as well."

Angela Adto Tepper, the owner of AZA Luxury Travel , said that the shift toward luxury travel had increased since the pandemic, with more Americans prioritizing travel.

"The luxury-travel sector has evolved to prioritize wellness, health, sustainability, and transformative experiences, and people are now prioritizing meaningful travel experiences and pursuing bucket-list trips," Tepper said. "Advisors have adapted by curating journeys tailored to each client."

Why travelers work with advisors

One of the biggest advantages of working with a travel advisor is that it helps travelers cut through the noise and information overload. Traveler agents work on commission, getting a percentage of hotel, cruise, or tour costs, which is paid after a trip is over. Many agents also charge an up-front fee for research and planning.

"The internet was supposed to be the death of advisors, and instead, it's made us more valuable than ever," Hechler said. "While some people love to spend time researching their vacations and doing it themselves, many don't have time to 'waste' on the internet starting from scratch. Saving time is problem-solving for almost everyone; anytime you can solve people's problems, you can have a successful business."

Travel advisors can also offer complimentary upgrades and have access to experiences that might not be available to the public.

"Working with a travel advisor can be summarized by three E's," Tepper said. "We can provide expertise and insider knowledge, extras with personalized service, and emergency assistance."

With the prevalence of Instagram and TikTok, it might seem like everyone is going to the same places. So booking luxury hotels or making reservations at Michelin-starred restaurants is no longer enough; travelers want advisors to curate one-of-a-kind experiences.

"The luxury-travel sector is not just about opulence and indulgence but also about creating meaningful, enriching experiences that leave a lasting impact," Maurice Smith, the founder and CEO of the luxury-travel agency Eugene Toriko , said. "Sustainable and regenerative travel practices are becoming increasingly important, focusing on preserving and enhancing the destinations we visit."

Tips for transitioning into travel advising

If you're ready to move into the industry, it's worth taking stock of your skills first. For example, Tepper said people with event-planning experience might transition well into travel advising since itinerary planning and familiarity with booking platforms are part of the job. She added that soft skills, like interpersonal communication, problem-solving, and adaptability, would also come in handy.

Tepper recommended contacting an advisor before switching over. "If you're considering the career change, one of the best things you can do is secure a reputable mentor," she said. "A mentor can offer invaluable guidance, accelerating professional growth and enhancing skill development, leading to greater success and higher earnings."

It also helps to study travel trends, have a deep knowledge of a destination, and build expertise around types of travel, such as multigenerational trips , cruises, or honeymoons. Tepper said that prospective advisors must also remember that they're not necessarily looking for the "best discounts" for clients but creating tailored trips with impeccable customer service.

"To maintain the quality of our personalized work, we occasionally have to turn away a client," Tepper said. "Not every client is the right fit for our service. This selectivity ensures that we can devote the necessary time and attention to crafting great experiences for everyone while upholding the high standards we have put in place."

The benefits of travel advising

Travel advising provides valuable services to travelers, but agents can also receive perks like complimentary trips sponsored by hotels and tourism boards and travel discounts.

"One of the biggest perks of this job is the opportunity to explore the world and indulge in my passion for travel," Tepper said. "Imagine waking up in a new city, tasting exotic cuisines, and immersing yourself in diverse cultures while doing what you love. For me, it's a career that blends passion and purpose."

The job also comes with a few challenges. Smith said that agents must stay on top of ever-changing travel regulations to ensure the safety of their clients. But ultimately, he said, it's a rewarding career that prioritizes relationships.

"Travel advising offers flexibility and the potential to work remotely, allowing for a good work-life balance," Smith said. "Additionally, the satisfaction of helping clients create unforgettable memories and the joy of turning their travel dreams into reality is incredibly rewarding."

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No need to remove liquids and laptops: 17 airports with stress-free security screening

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This week, Hong Kong Airport joins others in streamlining pre-flight procedures, with some allowing liquids over 100ml onboard.

At the airport security check. (Photo: iStock/izusek)

This audio is generated by an AI tool.

There are many perks of flying but security screening isn’t one of them. It's a real cortisol spike: The clattering of trays, the beeping of metal detectors, and the frantic disrobing while rummaging through your hand luggage.

Fortunately, part of this dreaded routine is about to change. Starting this week, Hong Kong Airport will allow passengers to keep liquids and electronics in their hand luggage during security screening .

This is monumental, considering that removing these items has been the norm since 2006. Liquids have been under strict scrutiny since a terrorist plot involving chemical explosives was thwarted that year. Because most scanners couldn't detect liquids with our electronics in the way, those laptops, tablets, and e-readers also had to be removed – until now.

HOW IT WORKS

Hong Kong is not the first airport to implement this change. Since 2015, airports worldwide have been replacing outdated scanning systems with advanced computerised tomography (CT) X-ray machines.

These CT scanners generate three-dimensional views, allowing security personnel to rotate images and inspect the contents of hand luggage from different angles. By screening more individuals within a shorter timespan, this technology allows lines to move more quickly, helping airports avoid delays and passengers experience less stressful journeys.

While implementation varies across airports, the scanners generally make our lives easier in three key ways:

• Level 1: Passengers are no longer required to remove electronics or liquids from their bags. However, they must still be kept in containers of not more than 100ml each.
• Level 2: Passengers are no longer required to remove both electronics and liquids from their bags. However, they must still be kept in containers of not more than 100ml each.
• Level 3: Passengers are no longer required to remove electronics and liquids from their bags, and they can bring liquids in quantities exceeding 100 ml onboard.

Level 3 is a real game-changer for a couple of reasons. It not only eliminates the need to refill our bottles, especially before boarding a low-cost carrier, but it also spares us the hassle of transferring our toiletries into tiny containers and worrying about leakages due to air pressure. That's right – you won't have to skip a single step of your skincare routine, even at 35,000 feet.

If you're wondering whether you'll experience these conveniences on your next trip, we've got you covered.

Here are 17 airports around the world that have already deployed CT scanners in their international terminals.

1. CHANGI AIRPORT

What: Not required to remove electronic devices from hand luggage, but liquid restrictions are still in place.

Location: Terminal 4

Timeline: CT scanners have already been in use since 2017. No word yet on whether these will be installed at other terminals.

2. HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

What: No longer required to remove electronic devices and liquids from hand luggage.

Location: North and South departure halls in Terminal 1

Timeline: Smart security screening will be launched on Jul 2, 2024. Over the next two years, we can expect to see 50 new channels being rolled out in phases.

3. INCHEON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

What: Not required to remove electronic devices and liquids from hand luggage.

Location: Departures No 3 in Terminal 1

Timeline: Smart security screening was introduced in September 2022. By 2025, all departure and transfer areas are expected to be equipped with these channels.

4. JEJU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Location: Not specified

Timeline: Smart security screening was introduced in June 2019.

5. HAMAD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (DOHA)

What: Not required to remove electronic devices and liquids from their luggage. It has also introduced a shoe scanner so passengers don’t have to remove their footwear.

Location: Transfers hall

Timeline: Smart security screening was introduced in June 2021.

6. MELBOURNE AIRPORT (TULLAMARINE AIRPORT)

What: Not required to remove electronic devices from hand luggage and put on the tray. Liquid, aerosol, and gel items, however, must be removed at Terminal 2 International.

Location: Terminals 1 to 4

Timeline: Smart security screening was introduced in October 2019, aligned with the government’s direction for all Australian airports to be equipped by the end of 2025. 

7. PERTH AIRPORT

Location: All terminals

Timeline: Smart security screening was introduced in September 2022.

8. CANBERRA AIRPORT

What: Not required to remove electronic devices and liquids from hand luggage. However, aerosol items (eg, hair sprays, deodorants, insect repellents) must be removed.

Timeline: Smart security screening was introduced in July 2020.

9. AUCKLAND AIRPORT

Location: All international terminals

Timeline: Smart security screening was introduced in May 2024.

10. CHRISTCHURCH AIRPORT

Timeline: Smart security screening was introduced in December 2023.

11. WELLINGTON AIRPORT

12. LONDON HEATHROW AIRPORT

What: Not required to remove electronic devices and liquids from hand luggage. Additionally, passengers will soon be able to carry liquids of more than 100ml onboard.

Location: Terminals 2, 3 and 5

Timeline: Smart security screening was introduced in February 2024. By summer (June 2024), the airport aims to equip all terminals with these channels and allow passengers to carry liquids of more than 100ml in their hand luggage.

13. AMSTERDAM SCHIPHOL AIRPORT

What: Not required to remove electronic devices and liquids from hand luggage. Metal bottles, however, have to be emptied and refilled only after passing through security.

Location: All departure and transfer filters

Timeline: Smart security screening was introduced in 2015.

14. MUNICH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Location: Terminals 1 and 2

Timeline: Smart security screening was introduced in May 2021 and is scheduled for completion this autumn (September 2024).

15. BERLIN AIRPORT

Location: Terminal 2

Timeline: Smart security screening was introduced in January 2024. More CT scanners are currently being rolled out in Terminal 1. 

16. LEONARDO DA VINCI-FIUMICINO AIRPORT (ROME)

What: Not required to remove electronic devices and liquids from hand luggage. Additionally, passengers are able to carry liquids of more than 100ml onboard.

Location: Terminals 1 and 3

Timeline: Smart security screening was introduced in March 2023.

17. MILANO MALPENSA AIRPORT (MILAN)

What: Not required to remove electronic devices and liquids from hand luggage.  Additionally, they are able to carry liquids of more than 100ml onboard.

Location: Terminal 1

Timeline: Smart security screening was introduced in May 2023.

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Unpack these cybersecurity tips for a stress-free vacation

No one would ever mistake me for chill, but come vacation time, my anxiety ramps up, not down. Is three hours enough time to get to the airport three miles away? Did I pack my earbuds? Did I pack my back-up earbuds? My back-up back-up earbuds? Is the tip included in the service charge? Is the service charge the same thing as a cover charge? Does sunscreen come in 1,000 SPF?

This is precisely the mental state that scammers seek to exploit — when we’re overwhelmed, distracted and on the move. So as summer travel season gets underway, I asked Mastercard’s cybersecurity experts for tips on protecting my money, my data and my identity before I leave and while I’m on the go.  

01 Book on reputable websites

When booking your flights, hotels or experiences abroad, interact only with reputable, established vendors. Before you snag yourself a deal, read the reviews and examine their site to ensure it is secure. Make sure the company you are booking with has a phone number or physical mailing address that you can verify before you proceed.

02 Use your own device and secure Wi-Fi networks

Never book or shop on a device you don’t own, or on public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in airports, train stations or cafés. Keep in mind that your information and financial accounts may be at risk if you use an unsecure network. Use your mobile data or, better yet, wait until you can use your home network. And keep your devices’ operating systems up to date — they contain critical security updates that protect you from vulnerabilities.

03 Know your rights

Check what travel benefits and insurance you have in place for your booking and while you are abroad, via your bank or your credit card provider. Familiarize yourself with the chargeback process. This can help prepare you for when you find yourself in a tricky situation — for example, if there are fraudulent or unauthorized charges on your account, damaged or defective goods or incorrect charges. 

04 Protect your tech

Setting up multifactor authentication — a combination of a unique, hard-to-guess passcode and biometrics like your face or fingerprint — means that if your passcode is compromised, fraudsters won’t be able to meet the second authentication requirement, which stops them from gaining access to your accounts. In addition, pack a charging cord with a traditional plug. USB and USB-C cables can transfer data, which could occur when you plug the cable into a public USB/USB-C port. Using a traditional plug removes the risk of data transfer.

05 Back up to the cloud and carry hard copies

Set your phone or device so that data is backed up to the cloud: If you lose your device, you will still be able to access your travel documentation. As an extra precaution, carry hard copies of all your travel documents.

06 Know your card's PIN and check contactless limits

Knowing your credit card and daily debit card limits and PINs can help make travel easier. The PIN assigned to your card is required at ATMs and at some payment terminals abroad. Some countries also have limits on how much you can spend per contactless transaction.

07 Set up account alerts

Setting up alerts can help you monitor your accounts easily and quickly identify transactions that you don’t recognize. Should you suspect fraudulent activity, contact the financial institution that issued your card immediately. 

08 Have multiple payment options

Keep an alternate form of payment in a different bag in case your wallet is lost or stolen. Add your eligible debit and credit cards to a digital wallet so you can pay with your mobile device wherever digital payments are accepted — in stores, online and in apps. 

09 Don't overshare

Avoid posting your location or travel agenda on social media. Sharing these details allows potential thieves to keep track of where you are, making it easier for them to time a crime. The same goes for your out of office email message — be careful which personal details you share, as it could prove useful to fraudsters.

10 Report your lost card quickly

If your debit or credit card is lost or stolen while you’re traveling, report it to your bank right away. If you previously added your card to a digital wallet and you are still in possession of your device, your card issuer may be able to update your digital wallet with your new card information so that you can continue using it while you wait for your new card to arrive.

Travel trends 2024: Breaking boundaries

Through March 2024, consumer spending on travel remains strong, and passenger traffic has soared. In its annual report, the Mastercard Economics Institute anticipates this momentum will continue as consumers prioritize meaningful experiences and allocate more of their budgets to travel. 

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Little Family Adventure

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Top Tips for a Smooth Family Move Across States

How to Keep Your Kids Happy and Stress-Free

Moving to a new state brings distinct challenges, particularly with children in tow. Effective management of this transition demands meticulous planning and attention to various aspects, such as efficient packing and preserving your kids’ routines.

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Selecting reputable movers and researching educational opportunities at your new location can make the process smoother. Another helpful strategy includes utilizing vehicle shipping services, allowing you to focus on settling in without the hassle of long drives or logistical concerns.

Strategic Packing for a Smooth Move

Efficient packing starts with a well-organized plan. Begin by categorizing items into essentials, non-essentials, and sentimental objects. Label boxes clearly to simplify unpacking and ease your family’s transition . Encourage children to participate in this process by allowing them to pack their favorite toys or books.

Consider the timing of when you pack specific items. Keep everyday necessities like clothing, toiletries, and school supplies accessible until the moving day arrives. Using color-coded labels can streamline identifying which boxes belong in each room upon arrival.

Selecting superior packing supplies is crucial for shielding your possessions in transit. Robust cartons, cushioning bubble wrap, and durable adhesive tape provide essential defense for delicate items against the rigors of travel.

Keeping Children’s Routines Intact During the Move

Maintaining your children’s routines can reduce moving stress. Stick to their usual schedules for meals, bedtime, and activities as closely as possible. Familiarity provides reassurance and helps them adapt to the new setting.

Involve your kids in certain aspects of the move to give them a sense of involvement. Let them pick out travel day outfits or decide which toys they want handy during transit. These choices can significantly impact their comfort levels.

Pack an essentials bag for each child with snacks, favorite toys, and comfort items. This ensures that wherever you are on moving day, your children have what they need to feel safe and content.

Stress Reduction through Vehicle Shipping Services

Relocating across states involves many logistical challenges. One effective strategy to reduce stress is using vehicle shipping services. Companies like A1 Auto Transport provide a dependable solution for moving your car safely.

Entrusting your car to trustworthy auto carriers frees you to zero in on making your new place feel like home. They ensure your vehicle lands in top shape, sparing it the stress of a lengthy drive.

Plus, it grants you the bandwidth to tackle critical relocation tasks – like unpacking or exploring your new stomping grounds. With your car’s journey off your plate, navigating the chaos of moving just got a bit more manageable.

Choosing Reliable Movers for Peace of Mind

Choosing the right movers is essential for a smooth transition between states. Start with companies that boast strong reviews and proven track records. Seek out those recognized by industry bodies, signaling their adherence to high professional standards.

Solicit comprehensive quotes from several movers, scrutinizing their service offerings, costs, and insurance provisions to secure the most advantageous deal. Proper due diligence wards off hidden charges and ensures your possessions are protected.

Arrange direct consultations with prospective movers to deliberate on your specific requirements. These meetings afford you a clear sense of their competency and attentiveness before you commit.

Prioritizing Educational Needs in Your New Location

Investigating schools before you relocate paves the way for a less disruptive shift for your kids. Start by assessing the caliber of educational institutions in your future locale, with an eye on aspects like scholarly achievements, after-school programs, and class sizes.

Visit potential schools to meet with administrators and teachers. This interaction allows you to ask questions about their curriculum, teaching methods, and support services. It also gives you a sense of the school environment and community.

Consider how proximity to schools might impact your daily routine. A nearby school can simplify morning commutes and after-school activities.

Look into local resources like libraries, tutoring centers, or youth programs that can support your children’s learning outside the classroom . Ensuring access to these resources contributes significantly to their overall development during this transitional period.

Wrapping Up Your Family’s Move with Confidence

Successfully relocating across states with kids requires thoughtful planning and practical strategies. From organizing efficient packing to maintaining your children’s routines, each step contributes to a smoother transition. Selecting trustworthy movers, like A1 Auto Transport for vehicle shipping, ensures peace of mind during this significant change. 

Prioritizing educational needs further supports your children’s adjustment in the new location. By focusing on these essential tips, you can transform the moving experience into a manageable and even positive journey for your family.

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