Pre-trip anxiety is a common issue amongst travellers, especially if you are going on a solo trip; your first overseas trip, trip without parents, or if you are shifting to some other city. In the weeks leading up the nerves, you may feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. Myriads of thoughts would cross your mind – and you wouldn’t know what to expect. Here is a list of a few travel hacks that would help you overcome your pre-anxiety and get to pre-planning.
Research is the key
If you are nervous, it’s probably because you don’t know a lot about the place and you are unprepared. In this digital-savvy world, we have everything we ought to know, on the internet. Yes, from tips to overcome different barriers, picture galleries, travel blogs, reviews, etc., everything is out there. So, get researching and a plan will fall into place.
Talk to other travellers
Family, friends, colleagues, neighbours; talk to anyone who travels often and get some advice. You would not just get an idea about where to go and what to see, but they would also prepare you for scenarios that you may have to face.
Plan your finances
Overspending can ruin the excitement when you are on a trip. Ensure that you have a plan for your expenses. Get money exchange done beforehand and set yourself a budget. Know how much you are supposed to spend per day and stick to your plan to avoid running out of money. Also, ensure that you have international transactions activated on your debit/credit card, if travelling overseas.
Be prepared for worst case scenarios
Keep the anxiety away but be prepared for unexpected scenarios. While booking your trip, ensure that you get travel insurance – it comes at a nominal cost and if something goes wrong overseas, travel insurance will be your only saviour.
Stock up on basic medication
Feeling unwell when you are on a trip can we awful. You don’t want to run around looking for chemist stores when you are sick. Pack a small bag with your medicines, and as an extra precautionary measure, do carry a small first-aid box.
Book a comfortable stay
Not a solo traveller? Book a hostel or sign up for a group tour. Understand your comfort zone and if you are not in the mood to try something new, book a stay that would make your travel experience extraordinary. Do your bookings in advance and carry a print out of your hotel receipts.
Get a mobile plan
Are you travelling to a remote destination that would have limited mobile accessibility? Inform your family and friends about where you are going and get a local sim for better connectivity. You can also opt for a roaming/international mobile plan to avoid exorbitant phone bills.
Download a language app
If you are travelling overseas or you are going on a solo trip, language could be a barrier. Download a language and translation app like Duolingo. This would help you understand the basics and give you the much-needed confidence.
Know the joy of packing light
There are a lot of items we pack but never use on the trip. You don’t want to be carrying around too many bags through airports, train stations, side walk, etc. A lighter suitcase means easier mobility. Ensure that you roll up your clothes and keep to pack your bag in a more organised way. Don’t forget your essentials like trekking shoes, a jacket or an extra charger but avoid overpacking.
Carry documents and printout of your itinerary
To avoid hassles, especially when you are travelling solo, carry copies of your itinerary and all your important documents like passport, ID card, Pan Card, etc. Also, ensure that you leave your detailed itinerary with a friend or family member, if you are travelling to a remote place.
So, get prepared and conquer your fears. If you haven’t done the bookings for your trip yet, book your tickets on Paytm, at the cheapest prices.
Happy tripping!
