Perhaps it’s the one-two punch of recent hurricanes in the Southeast, or the rising tensions in the Middle East. But Americans seem more afraid of travel than ever.
A recent survey by Squaremouth revealed that three-quarters of respondents are concerned about their next trip.
The survey revealed that three-quarters of respondents are concerned about their next trip. Illness or injury while traveling (64 percent), trip cancellation (16 percent), and delays or missed connections (10 percent) top the list. (Multiple answers are possible for the questionnaire)
Squaremas blamed the heightened anxiety on the approach of flu season, frequent airline suspensions and the threat of hurricanes, which are common this time of year. Symptoms of travel anxiety include nervousness, insomnia, restlessness, and even panic attacks.
Business travelers are also affected. A recent study by World Travel Protection found that one-third of people who frequently travel for business feel anxious.
Although this survey does not measure historical travel sentiment, it seems clear that U.S. travelers have never felt more anxious since the pandemic.
But what’s behind that anxiety? How can you fix it before it ruins your next trip?
Travel anxiety is rooted in uncertainty, experts say.
“Weaving through crowded airports, finding the most financially viable way to travel, and planning around unpredictable weather patterns,” says Salamata Waiga, a mental health therapist at Teladoc Health. “It can appear in many of us when we’re going through stress.”
How to overcome travel phobia
There are practical steps you can take if you’re afraid to travel.
Stay informed. “In some cases, all you need to do is refer to official government guidelines that define safe zones and list the necessary precautions,” said Dalia Feldman, who works at the travel agency Tourist Israel. Ms. Feldman has been dealing with anxiety about traveling to Israel since the outbreak of the recent Middle East wars, and has found that information from official sources can go a long way in alleviating her travel fears. (Here’s my guide to finding the best travel advice.) Reduce stress before your trip. “Ask yourself if there are ways to rethink your approach to travel anxiety,” says Dora Kamau, who teaches mindfulness and meditation at Headspace. “It’s not about getting through it, it’s about being prepared and facing it.” For example, narrow down your to-do list to the absolute essentials to gradually ease your pre-trip anxiety. Also, learn a few words in the local language, such as “please” and “thank you,” to break the ice and build better relationships with the locals. Consider travel insurance. Insurance doesn’t necessarily guarantee a safe trip, but it can give you peace of mind. “Travel insurance can help reimburse you for lost upfront costs if your trip is canceled for covered reasons, as well as provide 24/7 travel assistance to cover any ‘what if’s.” , which can alleviate some of this anxiety,” said Daniel Durazo, director of external communications at Allianz Partners USA. Please consult an expert. If you’re still worried about traveling, you may need to take it to the next level. “In cases of severe travel anxiety, it may be helpful to consult a psychologist or counselor,” says Raymond York, a spokesperson for Redpoint Travel Protection. “Cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques are often effective in managing anxiety.”
But, practically speaking, how do you calm your anxiety before you leave?
Here are some pro tips to deal with travel anxiety
To be honest, I’ve been similarly nervous about upcoming trips several times. One was on an Antarctic cruise right after I broke my pelvis and was still walking around on crutches. Another was a trip to Israel before the war. I had repeated fears of being blown up in Jerusalem.
Adrian Means Christensen, a psychology professor at Virginia Tech, says it can be helpful to think about your trip before you leave.
“The key is to try to understand what the thoughts are that lead to that emotion,” she says.
For example, if you’re worried about your airline canceling your flight, consider the possible consequences. What’s the worst that can happen? What should I do if it happens? And can you live with it?
“Anxiety can stem from fear of the unknown,” says Angela Williams, a psychotherapist in Orlando, Florida.
Obtaining information has never been easier. One great resource is a site called Sitata. The site covers topics such as diseases to be aware of, recommended vaccinations, safety concerns, cultural differences, and emergency numbers.
“This gives users direct control and control over uncertainty, allowing them to address multiple sources of anxiety,” said Adam St. John, CEO of the company.
If you’re anxious about air travel, resist the urge to try sedatives on the plane. “The combination of Benadryl, benzodiazepine sedatives such as Valium and Xanax, alcohol, and reduced cabin pressure can have life-threatening consequences,” says Bob, managing director of medical transport service Flying Angels.・Mr. Batchelor says. He says he has seen things go wrong many times and advises people to consult a doctor before self-medicating on a plane.
I was also afraid to travel. This is how I got through it.
How did I overcome my fear of travel? I consulted my injury doctor to get the green light to go to Antarctica and read everything I could about visiting the Middle East. The trip to Antarctica was uneventful, and he recovered so quickly that he no longer needed crutches during the trip.
We didn’t encounter any explosions in Jerusalem, but we did find some really good shawarma at the local market, Shuk. And despite everything going on today, I would not hesitate to return.
In times of uncertainty, travel anxiety has become a nuisance stowaway in your suitcase. But with a little information, preparation, and a little courage, you can send your travel concerns to the lost baggage department.
Remember that great explorers face their doubts before making history.
