Regardless of whether you’re heading off for a high powered business meeting, a budget weekend away with friends or the trip of a lifetime that you have spent years saving for, there is a certain amount of stress that goes hand in hand with each and every journey. Planning in advance and giving yourself plenty of time to get where you need to be will help, but there are other strategies you can employ at each stage of your journey to boost your enjoyment of the experience.
Look beyond price
It’s very tempting to focus first and foremost on price when it comes to booking time away, but it may be worth spending a little more if it leads to a more comfortable and enjoyable trip. Early morning flights tend to be cheaper, but if you arrive at your destination deprived or the right amount of sleep, you’ll spend your first day desperately wanting to crash out, and the effects could go on to disrupt your first few days.
The same applies to your return trip. It might be tempting to make the most of your time away by booking a flight back that leaves as late as possible, but if doing so will leave you feeling rough when you head off to work just a few hours later, it might be worth considering an earlier return flight instead.
Speed through security
The rise of the threat of global terrorism and heightened security means that passing through an airport and getting on a plane involves a great deal more stress and worry than it did in years gone by. The rules and regulations about what you can and cannot take and whether some items are allowed in carry-on or have to go in the hold are in a constant state of flux, and that can add to the stress of any journey.
If you travel on a regular basis, consider signing up for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. You’ll need to pay a fee and provide some basic personal information, but once fully enrolled, you’ll no longer have to take your liquids or your laptop out of your bag on your way through security, and you’ll also be able to keep your jacket, belt and shoes on.
Another huge bonus is that the lines are far shorter and sometimes nonexistent, all of which makes for a far more relaxing experience. It’s especially handy if you do find yourself running behind schedule as you’ll spend less time in line worrying about missing your flight.
Consider taking natural remedies
CBD oil, a product derived from hemp, has been gaining popularity as it has been linked to a number of health benefits, especially in the area of pain and anxiety management. Taking the oil also has a calming effect on the body, reducing levels of stress and helping to relax tight muscles. If you are concerned about flying, taking CBD can make the experience far more enjoyable.
Although it is closely related to marijuana, CBD does not get you high and using it is not against the law. You can carry it with you while traveling through any of the 50 states. Although CBD is also widely used abroad, there are some countries where its use is prohibited so if you trip takes you overseas; it is best to check the situation well in advance to ensure you remain on the right side of the law for the duration of your trip.
If you don’t enjoy vaping or find yourself in an environment where you are unable to – such as on an airplane – one alternative is to consider gummies infused with CBD. A number of varieties are available, so take the time to read through a few CBD gummie reviews to find the brand that bests suits your individual needs.
Stay healthy
Stress reduces the ability of our immune systems to fight off infections. Add to this the fact that the levels of humidity inside an aircraft cabin provide an excellent breeding ground for germs, and it’s easy to see why so many people pick up a bug on their way to or from their final destination.
Few things have the potential to ruin a holiday as much as getting sick when you arrive or having to take time off to recover from something when you return. Thankfully, there are a number of strategies you can employ that can reduce your chance of contracting anything.
Studies have shown that the tap water provided on both domestic and international flights often contains levels of bacteria that are significantly higher than the levels allowed by the US government. You might already be sticking to bottled water, but bear in mind that if you take your drinks with ice in them, it may have been made with the same water you are doing your best to avoid.
Most planes will receive a thorough cleaning at the start of the day, but time pressures on the industry mean turnaround times between flights are often short and that subsequent cleanings may leave a lot to be desired. Tray tables can become particularly unhygienic, especially when you consider many passengers traveling with young babies use them to change diapers.
Seat-back pockets are likely to receive even less attention from cleaners, despite the fact that they are used to hold everything from used tissues to trash throughout each day. Studies carried out by the Department of Biological Sciences at Auburn University have found that bacteria such as E. coli can survive in seat pockets for several days.
Treat yourself to something nice when you return
The end of a big trip can be an emotional time, especially if it’s a vacation you have been looking forward to for an extended period of time. It’s not uncommon to experience feelings of sadness as you make your way back, and then feel your stress levels rising as a result. The best way to avoid ending up in this situation is to have something to look forward to when you get back.
Plan a dinner with friends so you can share the stories about the adventures you’ve had or head out as soon as possible to see the latest blockbuster release. Be sure to book tickets or make the arrangements in advance as you might be too exhausted or too sad about the end of your trip to do it when you get home.
