Reisefieber, or the fear of travelling
The term "Reisefieber" comes from German and combines the words „die Reise”, meaning „journey”, and „das Fieber”, meaning „fever”. In English, Reisefieber means „travel fever”. The phrase refers to a specific mental state that appears just before a journey begins. It is a mix of emotions in which both excitement and the anticipation of an upcoming adventure blend with the anxiety or fear of departure. People who experience Reisefieber may feel a fear of the unknown, worries about the act of flying itself, and the stress that comes from having to organise the trip. This state was already noticed in the 19th century, with the dawn of organised tourism. On one hand it is an emotional preparation for leaving the safe space of home and heading into the unknown, and on the other a manifestation of the natural human reaction to the coming changes and challenges that travel brings.
Reisefieber - symptoms
The symptoms of pre-departure stress are varied and can manifest on many levels, both physical and emotional. People often struggle with heightened tension and nervousness, which may appear several days before the planned trip. Such states can lead to somatic reactions in the body, such as diarrhoea, excessive sweating, sleep problems, or a tight feeling in the stomach. In addition, the stress connected with an upcoming journey can weaken the body's immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections.
People experiencing Reisefieber may also feel a constant worry that they might forget something important or that something could go wrong, both in matters related to everyday life and to the journey itself. This uncertainty may concern professional duties, the state of the home during our absence, as well as fears about possible unforeseen events during the trip, such as injuries, flight delays, or the loss of documents.
How to cope with stress before a journey?
Coping with the fear of travelling requires an approach focused on both physical and mental preparation for the trip. First of all, it is important to build up the body's resilience by ensuring an adequate amount of sleep, physical activity, and a healthy diet rich in vitamins. These measures will help not only to strengthen the body but also to increase resistance to stress.
Planning the trip in advance is another essential step that helps reduce anxiety. Gradual preparation for departure, drawing up a to-do list, and delegating some of the tasks to others can significantly ease the load and organise the time before the journey. This approach makes it possible to avoid a pile-up of duties and a feeling of being overwhelmed.
Furthermore, it is important to find time for relaxation and activities that allow you to unwind. These can take various forms, such as an aromatic bath, listening to your favourite music, or playing sports. Mental preparation for the journey also includes accepting your own fears and working on them, for example through conversations with loved ones, practising breathing techniques, or using natural calming remedies.
The role of airport parking in reducing travel stress
Choosing the right airport car park, such as Parking Lotnisko, plays a significant role in reducing the stress associated with travelling. Many people feel anxious before a journey because of concerns about the safety of the vehicle they leave behind, the need to reach the airport on time, and the possibility of running into difficulties getting there. A well-chosen airport car park can greatly help to ease these fears.
Using car parks that offer the option to book a space online provides not only a guaranteed parking spot but also saves time that would otherwise be lost searching for a free space right before departure.
Companies also often offer a free transfer from the car park to the terminal, which is an invaluable advantage for people travelling with a lot of luggage or families with children. Being able to reach the door of the airport terminal quickly and effortlessly straight from the car park considerably reduces the stress of worrying about missing a flight.
Airport car parks offer supervised parking spaces, which gives peace of mind to travellers who may be concerned about the safety of their car during their absence.
How to avoid stressing before a trip? Practical tips
For those planning a journey, there are a few practical tips that can make the whole experience more comfortable and enjoyable. One of the key aspects is packing your luggage efficiently. It is worth stressing here that the most important thing is to focus on the essentials in order to avoid overpacking and unnecessary weight.
The choice of travel clothing also has a significant impact on comfort. It is advisable to wear loose, breathable clothes that do not restrict movement and are gentle on the skin. Dressing in layers can be helpful, as it allows you to easily adapt to differences in temperature, both at the airport and on the plane.
To make the time spent travelling pass more quickly and pleasantly, it is worth bringing along various forms of entertainment. E-readers, tablets loaded with your favourite films or music, and noise-cancelling headphones are great companions on long flights. For those who prefer more traditional methods, crosswords, books, or magazines can also be a good choice.
