Travelling outside one’s country is a lot of fun. Some people see it as a way to temporarily escape their immediate environment and feel some international air, while others see it as a form of enjoyment.
When travelling, there are many things to see, explore and experience, but as interesting as travelling seems, it could be quite stressful at times.
Here are 7 easy ways to make travelling less stressful:
1. Get the right documents: Before travelling, make sure you have every document in place. All your travelling documents should be checked and rechecked before you leave your home. It would save you a lot of unnecessary stress and money.
2. Take enough cash: It is not guaranteed that you would find an Automated Teller Machine where you’re travelling to and in order not to get stranded, it is advisable you take enough cash. You could consider converting your currency into that of the country you’re travelling to before your trip.
3. Pack light: If you’re travelling for a short time, it is better to always pack what would fit in a sizable bag. With two or more bags, it’s more likely for you to forget and lose a bag in transit. With one bag, you seldom forget your bag; unless your village people are really after you. If you are going to be staying for a longer period, you could consider thrift shopping. It is cheap and it would save you from the hell of pulling a heavy bag especially when the wheels come off.
4. Educate yourself: This is very basic. Cultures are not the same and practices differ around the world. When you’re travelling, try not to be ignorant and ethnocentric. Try to learn a few things about the place you’re travelling to. Knowing a few things about the place you are travelling to could save you from unnecessary stress and embarrassment.
5. Make friends: Everyone remains a stranger until you engage them in a conversation and you know them better. Some of the best friends people have made were made in transit. Get to know that stranger better. Is it their first time in that place too? Are they residents of that area? You wouldn’t know until you ask. If they’re residents and you can trust them, they could show you around town and help you save the costs of travel guides and expensive tours plus the stress of having to navigate around town. Your newly found friend could also hook you up with a place to sleep and who knows maybe you’ve just met the love of your life.
6. Carry snacks: if you have travelled over long distances, you will know that you never want to be hungry. Hunger can single-handedly ruin the fun of travelling. In planes, air hostesses would always serve you but you might not like the food. To avoid unnecessary stress, pack your snacks with you. Biscuits, chips, chocolates, doughnuts, etc are among the many snacks you can pack. Also, don’t forget your water bottle. You will need it.
7. Be entertained: Of course, you can’t just stare into space for a journey of six hours. You need to entertain yourself. Reading a book, listening to songs or watching movies on your phone or probably playing games could keep your company when you are bored.
