Travelling means being prepared for the unexpected. Overbearing traffic? Delayed flight? Missing luggage? Problems can crop up when you least expect them especially if you’re on a long trip. The fact that you’re in a strange and unfamiliar environment further worsens these kinds of frustrations and pushes your stress levels to its limits.
Since you’re bound to bump into unavoidable travel scruples sooner or later, the best line of defence would be to know how to handle travel stress as it arrives.
1. Always expect the worse.
This is not a call for you to be cynical about your travel plans. This is simply a reminder that you need to have backup plans in place should your main course-of-action go awry. For example: flight delays. You can make arrangements beforehand (if you’re on a business trip) in case you’re not able to arrive to business meetings on time. Or you can choose to go on a much earlier flight.
2. Practice relaxation techniques.
Travelling should be enjoyable- even when it’s a business trip. But still, you can’t avoid travel stress. It’s best if you know at least a few relaxation techniques that you can rely on if the need arises. You can do meditation and stretching exercises, read a book, or write in your journal. Video games also help too! If you have a smartphone, you can play a spin and win games at Paddy Power online casino. Just do whatever you can to relax and relieve your mind of worries even if it’s just temporary.
3. Avoid things that’ll make you cranky.
As much as possible, stay away from alcohol and other substances that can change your mood, perception, and state-of-mind. You’ll want your brain to always function at its peak when you’re on the road. Also make sure that you know exactly how your body clock works so that you can account for jet lag and/or sleep delays during critical events or meetings. So don’t travel if you’re lacking sleep!
4. Work out.
Yes, sweating the stress out really does work. Go for a brisk walk or a quick run in the morning. If your hotel has a gym, feel free to take advantage of it.
5. Be nice to airline staff.
It’s easy to vent your ire out on airline staff, but remember, a hot head will not get you anywhere. Also take note that the staff have no power over delayed flights or lost luggage. If you’re pleasant and courteous, they will be more likely to render good service to you. Remember the golden rule: be nice to others and others will be nice to you in return.
6. Never go without a map.
Don’t expect that the cab driver will know exactly where you are going. If you’re in an unfamiliar place, get a local map that you can take with you anywhere you go. While you can always use GPS or Google Maps on your smartphone, a real map won’t get lost, lose battery power, or suffer from a slow internet connection.