How to Deal with Travel Stress

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, it’s almost inevitable that a little--or a lot--of stress will make an unwelcome appearance along the way. These steps will help you combat the tension, and all of its accompanying physical and emotional pitfalls, so that you can enjoy yourself no matter where your travels lead you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Earplugs
• Sleeping pills

1. Create a home away from home. As Dorothy says in 'The Wizard of Oz,' “There’s no place like home,” and establishing a ritual on the road can help reduce stress by saving time and providing comfort. A little predictability reassures us that no matter how bad things may get, some constants remain. This may include awaking at the same time, reading the newspaper, or eating familiar foods.
2. Eat right. Most of us know by now that “You are what you eat,” but we often forget that this axiom applies to healthy living beyond weight management. By making time for balanced meals and staying hydrated, you equip your travel-fatigued body to deftly handle its physical response to the debilitating impact of stress.
3. Physical activity, such as a brisk 30-minute walk, is one of the most effective stress-management tools available. Although travelers often may be tempted to skip their workouts, exercise is one sure-fire way to blow off steam, fortify your body and release those positive endorphins that relive stress.
4. Unwind and escape. Reward yourself for a hard day’s work or exploration with a little pampering that will help you stay positive. A relaxing sauna, massage or soak in a hot tub will melt away the stress and reinvigorate you for the next day’s activities. Meditation, deep-breathing exercises, and listening to soothing music are other ways to unwind on the road, as are low-impact activities like reading or doing crossword puzzles.
5. They say “laughter is the best medicine,” and they’re right--it has been proven to increase the flow of blood to the brain, releasing those feel-good endorphins again, and reducing stress hormones. So do something fun with your family, pal around with your colleagues or watch a funny movie or show, and let the laughter flow!
6. Keep a travel journal. A study at John Hopkins determined people who documented their positive and negative adventures in writing showed improved mental health and the ability to cope better with travel stress. Plus, it’s a great way to relive your most enjoyable adventures long after they’ve ended.
7. Get plenty of sleep. Many travelers are behind on shut-eye even before they embark on their trips, preoccupied by last-minute responsibilities. By getting plenty of rest you’ll rejuvenate your body to be ready for the day ahead.

Tips & Warnings

• Although it’s impossible to avoid all stress, having a personal game plan for combating it will help you stay happy and healthy while traveling.
• Be prepared. Ample advance preparation for a business trip or vacation will help you avoid some of the common pitfalls of traveling.