Stress management calls for some preparation and planning to keep you from feeling overwhelmed. If you are aware of what could go wrong while you're traveling and have a backup plan for each scenario, you might not get quite so upset if a mishap does occur. You will also be better prepared to handle changes in your plans.
Here are some common travel issues and possible stress-relieving strategies for you to consider:
Delayed or Cancelled Flights
Problem: Especially if you have to make connecting flights, a delayed or cancelled flight can ruin a day or more of your trip if you aren't prepared.
Stress Management Strategy: Before you leave home, program your airline's reservations phone number into your cell phone. "If your flight is delayed, every passenger is going to be lining up at that departure gate to talk to that one representative to get on a different flight," says David Lytle, editorial director of Frommers.com. "An easier way to resolve this is to call reservations directly at their toll-free number." Another approach is to walk out of the departure area and go back into the ticketing department. Or if you have Internet access and a computer, Lytle notes that some airlines will allow you to rebook a flight on their Web site; you can also look at the flight schedule to see which upcoming flights work best for your travel plans. To minimize your risk of delays altogether, consider arranging your travel schedule in a different way. "Fly first thing in the morning," Lytle suggests. "The earlier the flight, the better the chance of getting out on time. If there are delays later in the day, those flights back up [every flight that takes off after it]."
Long Wait Times
Problem: Nothing can be more tedious than hanging around for a flight to leave. This is especially difficult when you have kids in tow who quickly run out of patience and get bored.
Stress Management Strategy: Come prepared to wait. Lytle suggests bringing along reading materials, a DVD for your computer, or something else that will keep you and others with you entertained while you're in the airport. Flying earlier in the day and avoiding peak travel times can reduce your wait times in some cases. No one loves to fly at 6 in the morning, but it could save you a lot of hassle and stress.
Lost Luggage
Problem: This is not a happy situation, especially when you're going to a different climate that requires special clothing or when you have an important business meeting to attend.
Stress Management Strategy: You can be prepared for this possibility by always packing your essentials in a carry-on bag, including Rx medications, a change of clothes, and a few basic toiletries (remember the three-ounce limit on liquids in carry-on).
Rude People
Problem: Traveling creates stress for everyone: you, other travelers, and airport and airline employees. All it takes is one rude person to set the stage for everyone to be irritable.
Stress Management Strategy: In response, try to be pleasant and polite yourself, and never take out your frustrations on the airline staff. It is not their fault that your flight has been delayed or cancelled, and there's nothing they can do about it. But you're going to get more help and sympathy if you're nice about it. "The airline staff is there to help you, to facilitate your travels. When there is a delay, they are delayed, too," Lytle reminds travelers. "You can be courteous — a smile goes a long way. Recognize that the person trying to help you works in a stressful environment to begin with. You want to have an ally in this."
Additional Tips for Stress-Free Traveling
Even if you've planned ahead and are prepared, traveling can still cause stress and frustration. So, if you find yourself ready to blow a gasket, you need to find some ways to help yourself relax and stay calm. Here are some tips:
- Be careful with alcohol. If you know that alcohol tends to make you angrier, and you're stuck waiting at the airport, limit yourself to one drink. Not only can alcohol lead to even more problems, but if you become too intoxicated, the airline can refuse to let you board.
- Call ahead. To avoid having to wait several hours at the airport for a flight that's been delayed, call your airline or check online to see if your flight is on time. You'll be more relaxed waiting at home.
- Plan flights carefully. When you have to book connecting flights, leave plenty of time in between so that you feel less stressed about making a close connection.
If you do get stressed or upset:
- Try some deep breathing techniques. Take in a deep breath, drawing it all the way in from your diaphragm, and then slowly let it out. Repeat until you can feel your irritation level decreasing and your tension easing.
- Use simple meditation. Repeat calming phrases to yourself, like "Relax," "It's okay," or "Don't worry about it."
- Visualize. Going on a well-deserved vacation? Try picturing yourself at your vacation destination, enjoying yourself, and feeling completely relaxed. You'll be there soon enough.
- Accept it. Sometimes, you just can't do anything about your circumstances. Don't fight what you have no control over. Remind yourself that the situation is out of your hands and that all you can do now is go with the flow.
When travel delays keep you from getting somewhere important, whether a special family event, a vacation, or a business meeting, it's easy to start feeling overwhelmed and aggravated. Planning ahead for such delays will help you keep your cool and, if you start to lose it, simple stress management techniques and relaxation tips will help you get your equanimity back.
