8 Things To Do For A Stress Free Travel Day

Apart from the excitement of beginning a new adventure, there really isn’t much enjoyable about a travel day. In fact, travel days tend to be long, exhausting and at times, really stressful. But that doesn’t mean they have to be.

All you have to do in order to avoid the stresses associated with airports and travel is to know how to be prepared. This simple list of hacks below will keep you on the ball for each and every one of your next adventures, and turn that travel day into a productive and/or relaxing day doing as you please while you wait to board your flight.

1. Give yourself plenty of time for flight check-in, bag drops, and layovers

Running to catch your plane is probably the worst feeling in the world, and also the easiest way to get your vacation started off on the wrong foot. Avoid getting caught in this trap by carving out more than enough time for your arrival at the airport, and for layovers when you’re booking your tickets. You can even streamline the process by checking in online.

2. Invest in a carry-on you love (that meets all requirements)

This point cannot be highlighted enough – especially when it comes to budget/low-cost airlines and baggage fees. You will avoid SO much unnecessary stress if you find a carry-on that comfortably fits all of your belongings and meets all the strict airlines requirements. In doing so, you’ll have the peace of mind of always getting your bag on the plane and no hidden cost to cut into your travel budget. It’s a vital part of a successful trip, so choose wisely.

3. Consider TSA Pre-Check

Even cut out the most annoying bit of flight departure – security checks. You’ll be able to further speed up the check-in process, and have the perks of not having to remove shoes, computers, scarves, etc, so it won’t feel like you are undressing for the whole of Chicago O’Hare.

4. Put together an ‘in-flight’ baggy

Now, within your carry-on you should organize a separate small baggy with any toiletries you might need throughout your flight, chargers and something to do (journal, book, kindle etc.). If you keep it all in an easily accessible and portable bag, you won’t waste time trying to find all the different things you need, as well as not holding up the boarding line on the airplane.

5. Keep a refillable water bottle and healthy snacks with you

It’s no secret that flying does a number on your body. The artificial air that’s circulated over and over, the altitude that causes dehydration, as well as the swollen feet and poor blood circulation leave you feeling bloated and sluggish. One of the best ways to combat these negative side effects of flying is by making sure you always have water and to simply be aware of these kinds of flying hacks to make your travel days easier.

Keep a refillable bottle so you always have access to drinking water wherever you are. You can also keep the bloat down by making sure you eat healthy choices, so pack easy to do trail mix or dried fruit.

6. Take a bit of cash with you

Try to anticipate that there might be issues with your card (even if there isn’t), and pull out a little bit of cash of the currency that is used where you’re traveling. Keep in mind that often times, taxis in many places still don’t let you pay by credit card. You’re bound to have a much more pleasant journey knowing you can pay for the cab home you just took.

7. Make sure your mobile devices are charged

Anticipate that there will not be any outlets straight away for you to charge your mobile devices. In doing so, you’ll have a fully charged mobile that will help you get to where you need to go upon arrival. It’s possible there aren’t too many things more stressful than traveling to a hotel you’ve never been to, in a city you’ve never seen, with a cellphone that has 4% battery life.

If you plan ahead, you should have no problem keeping your devices operational. There are some great portable battery charger options out there too, so you really will never have to worry about a mobile dying at the most inopportune moment (because for whatever reason, they always seem to do).

8. Have your hotel details easily accessible for arrival

And finally, make it a point to know where you’re going at your destination before you actually arrive. No one wants to get lost directly after arriving. It eats up your relaxation time, as well as well as causes you unwanted stress. Simply type the address of your lodging into your phone or write it down on a piece of paper. You can get even more in detail if you so choose, but this simple action can save your loads of time.

Remember, this list is a simple way to hack your travel day into becoming a fun part of your whole vacation.

What’s your best tip for stress-free travel day? Do share with us in the comments below?