Traveling with Anxiety – Tips and Tricks

Traveling with an anxiety disorder is tough.  Cars can be cramped, airports are packed and busy, flights can be canceled or delayed.  Let’s face it, all kinds of things feel like they could go wrong. Our family is no stranger to anxiety – especially when traveling with our child.  However, we’ve learned some things that can reduce travel anxiety, and we’d like to share them with you.

If you have meds, don’t forget them!

Sometimes just knowing you have your meds in your carry-on can reduce the stress and anxiety of traveling.  Anyone who has ever had an anxiety disorder knows that the fear of forgetting to take, or losing your meds can be daunting.  For this reason, if you have meds, do not forget them! Put some in your checked luggage, your carry-on, heck… carry some with you.  Sometimes just having those meds close in case of a really bad episode can help reduce anxiety.

Pack Efficiently

The best way to reduce packing anxiety is to pack efficiently.  Only take exactly what you need, and leave all that extra stuff at home.  Come up with a list of essential items you cannot survive without. Stay tuned to our blog for an upcoming post about traveling light!  The less you take, the less you have to worry about losing or forgetting. Less clutter means less stress.

Find a quiet space

For the most part, airports do not use all of their terminals 100% of the time.  This means there may be empty terminal sections that are inhabited by little to no one else.  If you need some quiet time away, plop down in a chair and take a few moments to relax and center yourself.  If you think you might fall asleep, set an alarm on your phone. Just make sure to check a TV screen when you get up to make sure your flight hasn’t moved.

Cater to your fears

Sounds strange, I know.  However, when traveling, catering to your fears is a reasonable way to reduce your stress.  You’re afraid of heights and claustrophobic? Don’t sit by the window. In many instances, someone is probably willing to switch with you as window seats are valued real estate.  I almost always opt for the aisle seat. It makes me feel less cramped and I’m able to get to the bathroom for a few moments alone without disturbing anyone else.

Vacate Reality

Going on a plane or riding passenger in a car?  Pop some earbuds in, cover your eyes with something, and relax.  Personally, I’m not a fan of taking off and landing in airplanes.  I almost always have earbuds on with a meditation track to keep me sane. I personally like the Let’s Meditate app. On the longer rides (in a plane or car), if possible, I do my best to “check out” as to avoid travel anxiety.  Taking a nap always works too.

Travel with a friend

In my opinion, one of the best ways to reduce travel anxiety is to travel with a trusted friend.  Someone who knows and understands your anxiety can easily be the rock when anxiety strikes. Knowing I don’t like take-off and landing, Kristen does her best to help me prep for it.  When she notices me being extra quiet, she gently grabs my hand to let me know she’s there. Your travel buddy doesn’t have to be a significant other. It can be your bestie, your closest bro, or even a cousin.  Just knowing someone you trust will be with you when anxiety strikes can help reduce travel anxiety.

Traveling with anxiety doesn’t have to be a show-stopper for your vacation.  Figuring out a reasonable self-care plan when anxiety strikes can really go a long way to keeping your vacation and travel plans in check.  And remember: You got this.