Whether you’re traveling near or far, by plane or car, when embarking on a trip you usually have hopes of getting to your travel destination on time and without any issues. However, the reality is usually very different. Traveling can be stressful.

Below are travel tips to help handle whatever may come your way. If you’re responsible for others who are traveling with you, especially children, prepare them for the same considerations.

1. Before you check in for your flight, check in with yourself

One reason to feel out-of-sorts while traveling is that you’re not in usual routines. If you have everyday habits like most of us, the spontaneity and lack of structure of traveling can be a hard adjustment.

Take some time before you leave to check in on what is needed for self-care. This can help to feel comfortable in a new setting.

Ask yourself what you need in order to bring some familiarity with you during the trip. Questions may include: do you need to have your coffee when you wake up? are you crabby with less than eight hours of sleep? how will you work in exercise routines?

Build time into your itinerary to meet those needs to help you feel grounded.

2. Pinpoint what it is about travel that makes you stressed

Find out what it is about travel that causes you anxiety. Jot down your worries about upcoming plans. Then, come up with a few solutions for each scenario.

For example, if you’re worried about missing your flight and running through the airport to make it to the gate, leave an extra hour of buffer time in between when you would normally get to the airport. Check in on-line for security wait times and potential weather issues. Look to see if travel times have been revised.

Not only does putting it on paper help you agonize less, practicing problem-solving can make you feel more prepared for whatever comes your way.

3. Make a packing list and check it twice

No matter what the length of the trip, knowing how much to pack, what outfits you’ll need, and making sure you remember everything can be overwhelming. Plan a day-to-day, mix-and-match wardrobe that coordinates with each day’s itinerary as well as inclement weather.

Wait to check items off the list until they’re tucked away into luggage. If there are last-minute items to pack, such as a toothbrush or makeup, make a post-it note. Stick it to the bathroom mirror or by the doorway to your house.

Unless you’re traveling to the desert or a remote island, you’ll likely be able to find it at a local store if you forget something.

Get your phone and laptop ready for travel. Pack charging cords, portable chargers as well as applicable international outlet adaptors.

If you don’t already have an international calling plan, check with your service provider. Most phone companies offer a limited time calling plan for select countries that is available for purchase.

4. Download your games and books in advance

If wondering what to do with downtime in the airport or on the plane, alleviate boredom by planning to do things you enjoy while traveling.

Download apps, books, movies, tv shows, podcasts, and games before leaving the house. Download a meditation app to help keep your head clear. Not interested in using a phone or laptop? Bring a book to read, a sketchbook to doodle in, or a puzzle book.

5. Sustain yourself by prepping food

Eating on the go can be expensive, limited and unfulfilling. Pack meals and snacks. This can save money and avoid stress about where to find food.

6. Print out important documents before you leave

You never know when your phone could run out of juice or bars. Having a paper copy on hand provides a backup if your phone decides to quit.

Source: Adapted from “How to Handle Travel Stress” on the website of the Colorado-based Jefferson Center, a nonprofit, community-focused mental health care and substance use services provider. https://www.jcmh.org/how-to-handle-travel-stress/