Traveling is an incredible adventure but can also be physically and mentally demanding. To make the most of your journey and ensure your well-being, here are five essential self-care tips to keep in mind. Please note that I AM not a licensed therapist or doctor, and these tips are based on my personal experiences. 

1. Be Comfortable with Saying YES to New Things

Traveling is an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, whether traveling solo or with a group. Embrace the unknown (while making safe decisions), be open to new experiences, and say yes to reasonable opportunities that come your way. Whether saying yes to trying a new cuisine or participating in an outdoor activity that is out of the norm for you, saying yes can lead to unforgettable moments and personal growth. Sometimes, I still struggle with this, especially for something like skydiving (I fear that I’ll jump out of the plane and immediately pass out). That example is a bit extreme, but the point is to step out of your comfort zone at least once when you’re traveling. Trying something new can be life-changing. 

2. Be Comfortable with Saying NO

On the other hand, it is also important to say “no” to things you do not want to do, and be comfortable and firm about it. While openness is essential, it’s equally important to set boundaries. Saying no when you feel uncomfortable or unsafe is an act of self-care. Trust your instincts and prioritize your safety and comfort above all else. Travel should be enjoyable, not stressful; hence, why I haven’t gone skydiving – it stresses me out thinking about it! If you’re on a group trip and aren’t comfortable doing what the majority wants to do, it’s absolutely okay to say no or that you’ll sit the activity out. Specifically on friend trips, they’ll understand if they’re you’re real friends [shoutout to mine ♥️]

3. Prioritize Naps

Listen, I LOVE a good nap, and so do my friends. Traveling can be tiring, especially when adjusting to different time zones. Prioritize naps to recharge your energy. A short nap can make a difference, helping you stay alert and fully enjoy your experiences without feeling drained. Coffee and Red Bull can only get you so far, but I’ve found that resting while traveling is important. When I went to Singapore in 2019 [you can read about that trip here], I was on the move from the time I landed until I left. I walked A LOT, did not nap, and barely got 6-8 hours of sleep. During my flight home, I was passed out the entire time, and I remember sleeping for hours when I made it home. While I enjoyed my trip, I wish I had either scheduled or taken time to rest. If you can, take that nap while you’re traveling! 

4. Be Flexible

Travel plans often come with unexpected twists and turns. Flights get delayed, bad weather can occur, tours might be canceled, or you might simply change your mind about what to do next. Being flexible and adapting to these changes is vital for reducing stress and embracing the spontaneity of travel. I fly out of Atlanta a lot and never know what to expect. There have been times when the TSA line is long but moves quickly, and there have been other times when the line is super long and barely moves at all (this really stresses me out). I invested in TSA Pre-Check, thinking I could quickly move through security. The first time I used it felt like being in the regular security line because there were so many people. The moral of this story is that if you fly out of Atlanta, or any airport, try to get there in a timely manner and mentally prepare yourself for the unknown to help reduce additional stress. I have another story from the summer of 2022 where nothing seemed to go right before my friends and I reached our destination, but I’ll save that for another post.

5. Live in the Moment

Balancing capturing memories with living in the moment can be a challenge. I used to return from trips and post lots of pictures. Over the past 3-4 years, that has decreased, and there are photo albums that should exist but do not either because I’m holding onto the pictures or there are far and few because I wanted to take in the beauty of wherever I traveled to. It’s essential to find that sweet spot and balance between trying to take pictures just to share on your social media and actually enjoying where you are. Take photos to cherish the memories, but remember to put the camera down and immerse yourself fully in the experience. Sometimes, the best moments are those you don’t capture but carry in your heart. 

I hope that these self-care tips are helpful during your adventures! Have a good time while traveling, explore, be open to trying new things, and be sure to take care of YOU. 

Cheers!