Travel anxiety

[Dominique]

OK so I've been planning this trip for months now, everything is booked and I have a pretty good idea of what I want to do and see. And although I'm filled with excitement, I still on occasion find myself feeling nervous and anxious about the coming trip. I sometimes worry that something will go wrong: that I'll fall ill with the flu or my reservations will fall through or what not.
This is kind of weird because I'm a pretty laid back person in everyday life. So why am I feeling so stressed about my trip when at the same time I can't wait to go??
Anyone else feel this way? How do you cope!!??

[Eagle]

Dominique, you're not alone, I think most of us have that anxiety just prior to leaving on a trip. I suppose it's at least partially a "fear of the unknown". It's kind of a strange feeling, a mix of excitement and anticipation, along with apprehension and nervousness.

I'm also kind of "laid back" most of the time, but I find that it helps to assume that there will be some minor problems during any trip, but one also has to be resolved not to let them ruin something that I've planned and anticipated for so long. Having a flexible attitude also helps, and as one well known travel writer often says, "If the trip doesn't meet your expectations, then change your expectations" (or words to that effect).

I'm assuming you have posted questions here regarding your trip, but refresh my memory -- which countries are you visiting, and how long are you going to be travelling? You have posted as a "guest" so there's no profile that I can check regarding your history on the Board. Also, have you travelled in Europe before?

I find that a few hours after I step off the plane, my thought processes change, and I kind of switch to "travel mode". I become much more "outgoing" (not my usual nature) and cheerful. Of course there's also the problem of getting over jet lag!

I suspect you'll be fine once you get started. Re-check your kit and your plans to make sure everything is ready to go (Passport, Medical Insurance, Money, Tickets, etc.). Knowing that everything is in place tends to reduce worry to some extent.

Have fun and keep us posted! Happy travels!!!!

[LHR02]

I think it is perfectly natural and something most folks experience. You've spent a lot of time and money on this, you are venturing into 'unknown' territory, things could indeed go awry (but in truth really don't that often) and you will be thousands of miles away from family, friends and your 'comfort zone'. As I noted in my journal the night before I left for my 4 month 'first ever trip alone'....."with butterflies the size of damn bluejays in my stomach I am off in 4 hours!" On the way to board the plane I had to stop and lose my morning coffee....but once onboard everything seemed to fall into place and all felt right in my little space. I think it is quite normal to feel stressed, worried and even a bit afraid. Take a good deep breath, get to the plane, it will all be okay!

ging

[me]

Dominique,

without question, it's possible that things will go wrong on your trip. but, don't let that put you into a funk!

as you've managed to plan/book your trip thus far, you're obviously bright enough to deal with any problems that may arrise!

these little hickups will just make your future tales about the trip that much more fun!

[Dominique]

Thanks for the replys guys! It's good to know that I'm not alone.
I feel pretty childish to be worried about my relatively short three-week trip! I'm going to Paris, Barcelona and the swiss alps. Certainly no where near as extensive as some of the trips I read about here! This is my second trip to Europe but first time planning the whole thing on my own (the first was a high school organized trip).
As you all mentionned, no need to let a bit of anxiety get in the way of a good trip. I guess things can't always go smoothly or as planned and I just have to learn to deal with that reality.
Everyone on this board is so amazingly helpful and friendly. It definitely continues to be a big help.