Summer can be one of the most exciting times to travel. Many of us are taking much needed rest and relaxation and planning trips abroad or even closer to home. And for so many of us, clients and therapists alike, travel, with the promise of new experiences and cultural immersion, can be healing and rejuvenating.
Yet, the current global climate – whether it’s the current Middle East war, or even with recent assassination attempt in the American election campaign — can cast a shadow over travel plans, leaving you yearning for adventure while grappling with anxieties. This internal conflict – the desire to explore and the fear of the unknown – is perfectly understandable. I see this with clients as they grapple with the choice to stay or go, where to stay or go, and how to be safe or control their environments when far from home.
This blog post explores the specific anxieties associated with travel during global conflict and offers coping strategies to help you make informed decisions and feel empowered to pursue your travel dreams, even in uncertain times. This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice or work with a therapist on managing travel anxiety.
Understanding Travel Anxiety in a Globalized World:
Travel anxiety is a common phenomenon, even when we aren’t being bombarded with violent news and information. It is often fuelled by fears of:
- Safety and Security: Concerns about political unrest, terrorism, and crime can be heightened during periods of global conflict.
- The Unknown: New environments, languages, and customs can be anxiety-provoking for some.
- Health Risks: Worries about unfamiliar diseases and healthcare systems can add to travel anxiety.
- Loss of Control: Feeling out of control in a foreign environment can be stressful.
Global Conflict Amplifies Existing Concerns:
- Media Overload: News cycles can be relentless, bombarding us with images of conflict, heightening the perception of danger.
- Uncertainty: The unpredictable nature of global events can make it difficult to plan and feel secure.
- Travel Restrictions: Emerging conflicts can lead to sudden border closures or travel advisories, adding to the sense of uncertainty.
Coping Strategies for the Wanderlust Warrior:
1. Do Your Research:
- Stay Informed, Not Overwhelmed: Seek reliable sources like government travel advisories and reputable news organizations for accurate information. Try not however, to go down that ‘google rabbit hole’.
- Focus on Your Destination: Research the specific safety and security situation in your intended location, not just the broader region.
- Consider Alternative Destinations: If your desired location is experiencing conflict, explore alternatives in more stable regions.
2. Prioritize Safety and Security:
- Register with Your Embassy: Enroll in travel registration programs to stay informed about local threats and receive assistance in case of emergencies.
- Purchase Travel Insurance: Choose insurance with adequate medical coverage and evacuation benefits in case of unexpected events.
- Plan for Disruptions: Have a backup plan in case of flight cancellations or travel restrictions due to unforeseen circumstances.
3. Manage Your Anxiety:
Not always easy for sure. But if you know your triggers, consider a few coping tools such as those listed below.
- Practice Mindfulness: Meditation, deep breathing exercises, and other relaxation techniques can help manage travel anxiety.
- Challenge Negative Thoughts: Recognize and challenge negative, catastrophizing thought patterns related to travel risks. Consider the core beliefs that may also be interfering. These may include: the world is an unsafe place; I have no control over my surroundings. You may try considering countering those by looking for evidence that support those beliefs. Most of the time, beliefs are not facts. You may also work on ‘self soothing’ statements to validate your fears but also offer emotional comfort — like that you might give a child.
- Focus on Controllables: Focus on the aspects of your trip you can control, like planning your itinerary and packing essentials.
- Seek Professional Help: If travel anxiety is overwhelming, consider seeking therapy to develop better coping mechanisms.
4. Embrace Flexibility:
- Pack Light: Be prepared to adapt your plans based on evolving situations.
- Be Open to New Experiences: Embrace the unexpected and see detours as opportunities for new discoveries. This may mean working to ‘radically accept’ certain realities.
- Maintain Communication: Stay connected with loved ones back home to share updates and maintain a support system.
5. Invest in Peace of Mind:
- Connect with Locals: Learning basic phrases in the local language can ease communication and build rapport with locals.
- Travel During Off-Seasons: Travelling during off-seasons can offer lower costs and potentially avoid peak tourist crowds and higher security risks.
- Invest in Travel Insurance: Travel insurance can provide peace of mind and offer financial protection against unexpected events.
Remember, you are not alone.
Millions of people travel during times of global conflict. By taking informed precautions, managing your anxiety, and embracing flexibility, you can turn your travel dreams into reality.
Brainstorm some additional ways you can work on the things within your control:
- Consider travelling with a friend or group for added security and support.
- Download offline maps and translation apps to your phone for easier navigation in unfamiliar territory.
- Familiarize yourself with local emergency services and contact numbers.
- Pack a small first-aid kit with essential medications.
Travelling during a global conflict requires a thoughtful approach. By following these strategies, you can navigate your wanderlust and anxieties, while working toward a safer and more fulfilling travel experience.
