Holiday season has arrived, which means many of us are all set for a vacay! If you’re anything like me, the most stressful part of setting off for vacation is the visit to the airport.
I’ve experienced my fair share of missed flights, lost luggage and general airport anxiety before, which has turned me into a slightly anxious traveler. Over the years, I’ve gained a few valuable tidbits which have helped me sail through airport experiences without triggering any nerves.
Unsplash
Now, I’d like to share my anxious traveler’s guide with you – all the other nervous Nellies facing an impending flight this holiday. From goodies to bring with you to good vibes for the journey, here’s my guide on how to keep that traveler’s anxiety at bay:
Dose up on calm
We’ve already spoken about the various benefits of taking CBD. A major plus that CBD boasts is relief from anxiety. CBD has been proven to help ease anxiety and depression. If you shop from reputable retailers, then your CBD oil or tincture will not contain any psychoactive properties.
My current brand of choice is Biomedcan. I’ve tested their CBD tincture oil drops and CBD milk chocolate for anxiety relief and insomnia, and I’ve been happy with the results! If you’re prepping for an airport visit, pack a bar of CBD chocolate to munch on while you’re there. Who says no to chocolate?
Biomedcan
It’s all about the itinerary
Everyone who knows me, knows that I am a serial planner. This can sometimes work to my disadvantage (planning thoroughly is time-consuming) but often, my planning ensures a smoother experience in the end. If you plan ahead, taking the day hour-by-hour, considering every aspect of your trip, then you’ll avoid any hiccups and you won’t forget anything important.
Get yourself a cute planner, like these ones from Creativ & Heart, and plan your visit to the airport, from one hour to the next, considering what do you need to bring with, what do you need to do once you get there, and where you’d like to visit while you’re there. I go as far as scoping out all the restaurants and menus ahead of time.
Creativ & Heart
The fewer decisions you have to make in the moment, the more you can enjoy it.
Choose your entertainment
Are you opting for a movie on your iPad, a podcast, or book? It’s always good to make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your boarding time. What to do while you wait? Podcasts like Sadhguru set the tone for a peaceful and calm environment while others like True Crime South Africa will envelope you into the world of South African true crime history and totally distract you from the bustle around you.
My number one book recommendation at the moment is Glennon Doyle’s Untamed. This non-fiction memoir/wake up call is as inspiring as it is eye-opening, every woman needs to read it!
Instagram / @ohsocutedesigns
Keep your hand luggage simple
You will never catch me trying to balance a heavy hand luggage bag and handbag over my shoulders ever again. I’ve learned my lesson. Pack everything into your hand luggage bag. Don’t lug around an extra handbag if you don’t have to.
When shopping for your perfect hand luggage bag, look out for something that’s compact but functional. I’m loving Lipault’s City Plume 24-hour bag.
Lipault
Nifty things to keep on hand
Now that we’ve covered the main characters, don’t forget to bring these smaller goodies with you too:
- Chewing gum for take-off.
- Earphones / headphones.
- Facial SPF. Always remember to apply before setting off!
- Lip balm.
- Hairband.
- Perfume mini.
- Keep your devices close. Phone, laptop, tablet.
- Phone charger, laptop charger.
- Neck pillow for longer flights.
- If you’re wearing closed shoes on a long flight, pack a pair of comfortable open slippers and socks to change into.
- Wet wipes.
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Feature Image: Unsplash
