Vacations can be stressful in the planning, execution, and travel. Many people occasional feel they need have a vacation after the vacation. Vacation time should be enjoyable and relaxing. I can’t guarantee NO stress or the behavior of your companions, but these tips can help with relieving the majority of stressful travel.
- Plan and research your destination
- Look for resources in the destination, activities, time of events, advance reservations needed, etc.
- Lodging/transportation availability
- High travel traffic times
- Research the climate & weather
- Make a packing list
- Items to take from clothing, snacks, supplies, electronics, activities, toiletries, medications, protective gear, etc.
- Pack as you go
- Two weeks before the travel open a suitcase in your house; add items to it as you think of them
- Refine the packing the night before
- After packing, remove at least 1 outfit
- Prepare the night before
- Lay out the clothing for the next day
- Prepare the family & house for travel
- Pack the backpack or carryon bag
- Leave early for your destination
- Set the time of leaving the house 1 hour before expected
- Arrive at the airport 2 hours before the flight for any disruption/delays in parking, check in lines, etc.
- Prepare for the unexpected & delays
- Transportation, parking, hotels, flights, car failure, broken suitcase
- High travel during vacation & holidays [consider leaving a day extra and/or stay a day later]
- Research weather patterns, road conditions
- Have a backup plan
- In case of trip interruptions or delays, weather, or anything else out of your control
- Pack snacks, activities for children, change of clothes in carry on, extra medications
- Prepare for sickness & emergencies
- Take prescribed and over the counter medications
- Take a first aid kit or supplies for injuries that may occur during activities
- Know the medical facilities in the area
- Have downtime during the vacation
- Don’t try to plan every minute of the vacation
- Remember to relax, sleep, take naps
- Stay flexible & spontaneous
- Remember to breathe
- It’s your time to wind down & relax
- Smile, laugh, and have fun
I am available for travel medicine consultations at drtravel911.com. And if you want more healthy travel information, my published books “Travelpedia: A guide on how to travel efficiently, healthy, and safely” and “Travel 911: A Health Guide for Adventurers” is available at drtravelqueen.com.
Enjoy and Travel Well!
Yvette McQueen MD
A Global Traveling Physician
