9 Smart Ways to Reduce Travel Strain

Travel is good for the health, heart, and mind but it can also be stressful 

Traveling to a new place is always a wonderful experience. It improves your health not only psychologically but also physically and you get a much-needed break from your mundane life. But along with all the fun comes a lot of stress of traveling – from sorting out all the documents, packing the correct things, reaching the airport on time and then dealing with jet lags.

Here are nine travel tips for a stress-free vacation.

1. Be careful about booking your flight – Choose your flight on other factors besides the price. Avoid booking really early flights as your body needs enough sleep before you begin with your long-haul flight.

2. Get the best seat – While traveling in long-haul flights your body deserves that extra legroom and space. Invest in the upgrade to premium economy or ask for the extra legroom seats at exits or the front of the cabin. At the very least, choose an aisle or window seat. The aisle seat will give you a little extra breathing space and legroom and the window means you can lean your head against the plane’s interior for easier nap times.

3. Ultralight suitcases – The most important thing to keep in mind is to carry an ultralight/light suitcase. Lugging a heavy suitcase will only cause stress. It is best to avoid overpacking as it will make your travel quite easy. Carrying only the things that you will use. Fairly light luggage will make you feel more relaxed and happier.

4. Carry-on travel kit – You will need these essentials accessible to you throughout your trip. Essentials such as – travel pillow, reading glasses, hand sanitizer or wet wipes, sunscreen, earplugs or headphones, medicines and some refreshing rose water to keep your skin hydrated.

5. Carry your medicines – Carry medicines that will last your entire trip plus extra in case of delays. It is important to carry your doctor’s prescription, including the generic name of medicines. If your medicine is banned at your destination, talk with your doctor about alternative medicine or destination options, and carry a letter describing your condition and the treatment plan.

6. Leave early – When you leave early, your trip has a smooth start. Save yourself from the stress of being stuck in the traffic jam and the hassle of rushing to the boarding gate at the last min. Leaving early gives you plenty of time in hand to check-in, have a beverage, grab a bite and then board the flight on time hassle-free.

7. Plan ahead to deal with jet lag – Jet lag is one of the most physically challenging aspects of travel. It causes disorientation, irregular bowels, causing fatigue, headaches, dry eyes, and insomnia and general malaise. The best way to prevent a tiresome jet lag is to treat your body well before you fly – exercise, eat well, stay hydrated and refrain from alcohol.

8. Go easy on the food – Especially while traveling a sudden change in the diet could be a disaster. Hence it is important to be mindful of what you are eating. The idea is to eat some similar food in the beginning and then slowly move to try out local food to avoid stomach trouble throughout the trip.

9. Easy exercise – Light exercise will make your body feel less stiff while traveling. Easy exercise could be spending time in the pool, walking around in the neighborhood and some light body stretching.

We would like to hear about your travel tips that make your vacation stress-free. Do share in the comment box below.