Airports make me anxious. These 5 tips help me relax.

The airport can be an exciting place. It takes you one step closer to your final destination where adventure, loved ones, or work (or all of the above) could be waiting. 

However, the airport can still trigger immediate travel anxiety for some people. It could be TSA security rules, a never-ending line to get through security checkpoints or the idea of planes traveling thousands of feet above the ground. These things could trigger anyone’s nerves.

My daughter and I love to travel, especially if it’s out of the Boston Logan International Airport. The airport seating is spacious and comfortable. I especially love that there are plenty of charging stations to plug up while I work and can keep my daughter entertained.

Over the years, I have observed difficulty in controlling my feelings of worry when I fly alone. These feelings usually kick in right before taking off. Recently though, I felt airport anxiety symptoms creep in weeks before I took a solo trip to Spain. 

With time and experience, I have picked up some great tips to feel calmer before take-off. Here are 5 ways I relax for a smoother travel experience.

Tip #1 – I Reserve My Seating in Advance

Where you sit on the plane can make a huge difference in your flight experience. I recommend prioritizing a seat that makes you comfortable during your flight.

Exit seats offer more space and legroom for those who need it. The front of the plane can provide a quicker exit upon landing. Aisle seats don’t make you feel boxed in. 

When I book my flights for solo trips, I strategically choose my seat. 

I feel the most calm when I am seated at the window side. Seeing clouds and stars float by puts me in a meditative state. The same way looking at a fish tank would. Window seats also allow me to see what is going on outside of the plane, which offers some reassurance. 

Tip #2 – I Get Some Movement in Before My Flight

Exercise is a great way to boost your endorphins. These “feel good” chemicals are released from your brain after physical activity. The endorphins and serotonin help to improve your overall mood [Source]. 

As a 200-hour certified yoga instructor, I know that moving my body helps my anxiety. Physical activity distracts me from any negative thoughts. And integrating yoga in your travel plans is a great way to stay grounded.

I do my best to squeeze in movement before arriving at the airport. If I’m not able to, I pack my travel yoga mat so I can at least stretch before a flight. If the gate is flooded with travelers, I will opt for some seated stretches while I wait.

I understand if you aren’t one for an audience. I suggest walking around the airport terminal before getting on your plane. You’ll find some interesting things to look at while you walk off the nervous energy.

✈️ Read Next: Why I Let My Kid Wander at the Airport

Tip #3 – I Practice Relaxation Techniques

Relaxation techniques are a great way to combat airport anxiety. They also help you cope with everyday stresses. Relaxation looks different for everyone. What works for me might not work for you. Whichever way you choose to practice relaxation, you are bound to reap the benefits for the mind and body. 

Breathing

One of my favorite techniques that is easily accessible at all times is to take slow deep breaths. I usually pack some essential oils with me, such as lavender. Lavender is renowned for reducing anxiety. I sometimes dab the oil on the inside of my wrists and inhale the aroma while I breathe. 

Affirmations

Another great technique that is readily available is affirmations. Using affirmations can help reassure you that despite any hurdles, you have the strength to overcome things. 

Positive affirmations can help enhance your overall mental wellness. I usually silently repeat to myself “I am safe” during take-off. 

Meditation

Many people like to listen to podcasts while traveling. I enjoy listening to short guided meditations because they help me to stay centered and keep a peaceful mind. 

I use the Calm app, which has a library full of guided meditations. It provides me with tools to feel better in the palm of my hand. 

Tip #4 – I Pack These Things to Keep Me Occupied

Distraction is a wonderful way to get your mind off of distressing thoughts. Intentionally giving your mind something else to focus on is a healthy way to cope with anxiety [Source]. 

Before I travel, I make sure that I am prepared with plenty of distractions. I keep all of my tools within reach, either in my backpack or attainable within my carry-on.

Music

A playlist of your favorite songs, artists, and genres, is an effective way to relax and reduce stress. 

Upbeat music can make you feel optimistic, while slower-tempo music can make you feel more soothed. Make sure you download your playlists before boarding the plane. 

I have an infinite library of playlists I’ve created on Spotify. Each playlist evokes a different experience I want to create through music.

Movies and TV

Movies and shows are obviously great for entertainment. But they have other benefits such as reducing stress and increasing happiness [Source]. 

The Netflix app allows downloads of TV shows and movies for offline viewing. Watching your favorite feel-good movies and shows is a great idea when you need a distraction from worries. 

I especially enjoy watching period pieces to immerse myself in other worlds. The Netflix series, Bridgerton is a favorite, as the stunning sets, regal costumes, and cinematography are captivating.

Books

Reading is a healthy escape from stressful moments. Reading promotes relaxation in your body by slowing down your heart rate [Source]. 

I always keep a good book in my backpack. By opening a book you are transported into another world that distracts you from thoughts of concern. 

For example, my favorite book, Karma: A Yogi’s Guide to Crafting Your Destiny, requires my complete focus and attention. It inspires me to read more mindfully and brings me to the present moment. 

Journals

Journaling is known to control anxiety symptoms and improve your mood. You can recognize patterns and learn ways to overcome them. 

My journal is usually packed along with my book. Journaling at the airport or on the plane helps me organize my worries and concerns. It provides an opportunity for positive self-talk and to identify negative thoughts. 

Have you ever heard of an art journal? An art journal is great for exercising your creative muscles and helping you to draw your stress. Having my sketchbook while I travel allows me to experiment with my creativity and draw what I am feeling. 

Drawing literal or abstract representations of what is causing you stress can positively impact your brain wave patterns. It can change your perspectives and how you experience the world around you. Overall, it’s a wonderful tool for managing travel anxiety on the go.

Tip #5 – I Avoid Alcohol

A tempting glass of bubbly might seem ideal to soothe your mind before or during a flight. However, alcohol can have the opposite effect by altering the way your brain reacts. It depresses your central nervous system and could make your travel anxiety harder to cope with [Source]. 

I always opt for tea when I’m at the airport or aboard an aircraft. Sipping a warm cup of tea helps me slow down and center myself in the present moment. Herbal teas are great for anxiety and nervousness and I especially enjoy lavender tea for its soothing properties. 

If you don’t like tea, drink some water. Water also has natural calming properties. Drinking water soothes the body and adds extra hydration when you’re stressed.

👉 Want more? Betty is a flight attendant and also has helpful advice for airport anxiety

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Your airport anxiety is just as unique as you are. Addressing your anxiety can be helpful so that you don’t ever feel like you have to avoid traveling.

I’ve found that I experience travel anxiety days leading up to a trip – especially when I am traveling alone. Instead of avoiding the airport entirely, I have learned that utilizing the travel tips laid out in this article helps me cope with stress. 

With some practice, I am confident these tips will make your airport experience more enjoyable, too. 

Next, read the story of the time my luggage broke and packing cubes saved my trip.