{"id":4997,"date":"2021-03-25T10:32:00","date_gmt":"2021-03-25T14:32:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vacayou.com\/magazine\/?p=4997"},"modified":"2024-01-15T09:47:47","modified_gmt":"2024-01-15T14:47:47","slug":"prepare-to-travel-again","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vacayou.com\/magazine\/prepare-to-travel-again\/","title":{"rendered":"Overcoming Anxiety as You Prepare to Travel Again"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Travel is gearing up for a comeback, as vaccine boosters are rolling out, quarantine regulations are lifting and hibernation is coming to a close. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In a recent survey from American Express Global Travel Report, 87% responded that having a trip planned in the future gives them something to look forward to. In addition, 47% indicate wellness and mental health a top motivator for traveling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Yet, there\u2019s still a lot of unease and doubt around traveling at the moment. In a way, it\u2019s like falling off a bike and getting back on it the first time after; you know how to do it, but there\u2019s a hesitation out of human survival instincts that has you digging your heels into the ground prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
\"woman<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to travel, only you can make the choice of when you\u2019re ready or what\u2019s best for your own health. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But, if I\u2019ve learned anything over the years as a resilient little being on this planet, mindset and preparation can be one of the greatest tools to overcome any fear. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This article will share with you tips and tools to ease your travel fears for your upcoming air travel journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What\u2019s Your Why<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Your thoughts and mind create your reality. Deep underneath the hesitation is an underlying fear that\u2019s most likely one of the culprits keeping you in a \u201cflight, fight or freeze\u201d position. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

That fear probably is very valid and real, so don\u2019t dismiss it. Instead, acknowledge it. Let it be real. Own it. Then, move on to the next paragraph.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
\"relaxing<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

What\u2019s Your Goal<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Why is it you\u2019re traveling in the first place? What\u2019s your actual objective of this trip or adventure? Once you have a clear idea of your why, you can train your mind to put the focus on the goal, rather than the fear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I utilize this mindset strategy for overcoming life obstacles in auditions for acting, pitches for new business as a producer, and life choices in general. We all have our own fears, but we\u2019re also the only ones who can decide which holds more power: your fear, or your goal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now that we have the backbone behind the travel strong with your mind, the next part is all about the prep. Again, only you can decide when you\u2019ll ultimately feel and be safe for traveling again. There are far too many variables to give a general consensus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step-by-Step Guide for When You Travel Again<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you do find today\u2019s the day to go book that trip you\u2019ve been waiting for all last year, here\u2019s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare, reducing the fears and anxiety currently surrounding travel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n
\"van<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Couple<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

1. Pre-Travel<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Each country, airport, airline and even state has different regulations at the moment regarding travel restrictions. This is slowly lifting, however, there\u2019s no one-size-fits-all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Two weeks, then one week, and again, 72-hours prior to your departure, check the document and testing requirements for the variables mentioned above (country, state, airport, airline). It\u2019s beneficial to check more than once, because things are changing rapidly around the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some airlines have partnered with third-party tools that make it easier to see what you need prior. I fly American Airlines out of their hub in Miami most often and use Sherpa to check the requirements before booking, and again, before flying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. At the Airport<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
\"Woman<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bring a mask, or three. They\u2019re required in just about every public area, including rideshare, trams, airports, planes, and hotels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As much as possible, things will be touchless and distanced. Automated check-ins, social distancing spacers in the airport, limited lounge access, and plastic barriers between yourself and TSA or the counter agents (if needed).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wear your mask, keep your distance, be mindful of others, and keep the hygiene level at a maximum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Selecting\/Staying At Your Hotel<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
\"\"
Courtesy Palmai\u0308a House of Ai\u0308A<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

This will greatly vary, depending on where you\u2019re choosing to stay; however, a few general notes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n