How to beat your fear of flying & COVID-related travel anxiety

Hello everyone!

Travel stress and anxiety is nothing new but nowadays we’re not just talking about fear of flying or losing your passport.  As many people are travelling again, we’re facing a sort of new wave of travel anxiety triggered by COVID-19.

With pandemic restrictions easing up and vaccinated people eager to take a long-awaited vacation, a lot more people are travelling around this time.  However, many people are still reluctant to book a flight.

Fear of flying (aerophobia) can be caused by several factors, including claustrophobia or a fear of heights.  Many nervous flyers feel irrational anxiety that their plane will malfunction and crash.  Other travellers worry about terrorist hijackings or panic at the idea that they’re not in control of the plane.

To fly or not to fly is a personal decision and one that no one else can make for you.  But for those of you who are determined to go on holiday (vacation), below are a few tips for overcoming your travel anxiety.  

Figuring out the exact reasons (or triggers) behind your travel anxiety is the first step in feeling more confident about taking a trip.

Before your trip

• Familiarise yourself with aeroplane noises.

• Check the turbulence forecast.

• Choose an aisle seat.

• Think positive.

• Bring a photo of your destination.

• Drink water only (no coffee or alcohol).

• Arrive at the airport early.

On the plane

• Pay attention to the safety presentation.

• Listen to music that relaxes you.

• Distract yourself during the flight.

• Think about where you're going and what you're going to do there.

Typical travel anxiety tends to anticipate what may happen in the worst-case scenario.  The problem is some of the anxiety about COVID is not irrational.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Protection (CDC), the more you travel, the more you risk becoming exposed to the virus.

To keep anxiety about COVID-19 in check, it’s important to distinguish between real risks and overblown scenarios.  Here’s how to prepare for a safer trip:

• Do your research - Factors such as the COVID-19 infection rate where you live and in the location, you are travelling to, should be taken to consideration.

• Check local rules ahead of time.

• Get your paperwork in order. 

• Offer proof (if needed) - Many countries require a vaccination certificate and/or a negative COVID-19 test result.

• Don't forget your masks and hand sanitiser.

If your anxiety is particularly crippling and you’ve tried other relaxation techniques without success, ask your doctor about taking an anti-anxiety medication or a sleeping pill before you fly.  Nothing should stand between you and the vacation you deserve!

I hope you found this helpful!  Stay safe, wherever you are.