Holidays are supposed to be relaxing and they usually are – at least when you’re ensconced on a sun lounger, sipping on a strawberry daiquiri and breaking out your freshly acquired airport novel. A recent survey found that three in four Irish people are planning to take a trip of some sort this year, whether it’s a city break or a two-week sun holiday.
Yet travel stress is a real thing, and can even have a negative impact on holiday enjoyment. Research by psychologists has shown that many people even avoid travelling completely as the anxiety associated with flying or managing logistics is too much for them.
Claire Doherty, product and operations director at tour operators Travel Department, is not surprised by this, noting that travel stress often starts long before the plane takes off.
“Common stressors include choosing the right destination, organising flights and accommodation, arranging transfers, planning daily activities, and navigating language barriers or unfamiliar systems,” she says. While away, people can feel anxious about getting lost, managing transport, missing out on key experiences, or handling unexpected issues such as illness or lost belongings. “And for many, the sheer volume of decisions can be overwhelming – especially in a new environment,” she adds.
Keen to remove those triggers and focus on enjoying that much-needed break away, people are turning to tour operators who can take care of much of the essential but often tricky admin that comes with planning a trip, especially one that has multiple destinations or is further afield.
A tour operator such as Travel Department, which offers fully guided group holidays to more than 100 destinations worldwide, simplifies every stage of the trip, Doherty says. “Flights, transfers, accommodation, and a well-structured itinerary are all arranged in advance. This means travellers can simply show up and enjoy their holiday without worrying about logistics.”
This is ideal for the somewhat nervous traveller who is worried about straying from the beaten path, or simply someone who doesn’t have time for the extensive planning a more adventurous trip would require. “Our experienced local guides are also on hand to assist with any issues that might arise, offer cultural insights, or if they want some inside tips,” Doherty says. “Having support throughout the journey offers peace of mind and allows guests to relax and focus on enjoying themselves. We take care of the details, so our customers can simply enjoy the journey.”
Doherty says the services of experienced staff are invaluable when a tricky situation crops up or travel disaster strikes.
“This has happened and we are always able to help. From missed flights to medical emergencies, our team and local guides are trained to respond calmly and effectively,” she says. “If the unexpected happens you have a team of well trained professionals on hand who can manage any situation so you don’t have to.”
The idea is that removing much of the stress – and basic admin – associated with holidays can help people maximise their precious days away.
“When the admin is taken off their plate, travellers can be fully present and make the most of each moment,” Doherty says. “Instead of worrying about where to go next or how to get there, they can immerse themselves in the culture, connect with fellow travellers and create lasting memories. Travel should be enriching, not exhausting – and that’s exactly what we aim to deliver.”
For those not travelling with a tour operator, it’s worth researching a few “travel hacks” that will make your journey abroad smoother and less stressful. For example, airline apps have come on in leaps and bounds – any delays or changes to your flights are usually communicated instantly and it’s typically the easiest way to reach a customer-service operator if needed.
Sarah Slattery, who blogs at thetravelexpert.ie, advises buying luggage scales, to avoid any unexpected excess baggage charges – or having to dump some of your carefully packed items at the airport. Another idea is to pre-book airport parking, as it can often be booked out at busier times of the year. Pre-booking transfers once you land at your destination is also advised, as it saves time waiting in taxi queues or for buses that might get delayed. The same goes for car hire. And if you need any specific equipment while there, such as ski equipment or golf clubs, for example, these are also worth reserving to save disappointment.
Those travelling with kids can find stress is unavoidable but some careful planning will help mitigate this. Pre-booking tickets for attractions such as amusement parks or popular excursions can help avoid bored youngsters standing in queues, while portable chargers are a must for devices.
Sometimes it’s just peace of mind that ensures a holiday is enjoyed from start to finish. Check that your passport is in date when you book your flights, for example – many a traveller has had to trudge forlornly out of the airport when confronted by an expired passport. A poll commissioned by Ring found more than 78 per cent of travellers wished they had someone to take care of their homes while being on holiday, so it’s worth asking a neighbour or friend to check on your home regularly.
Some careful preparation will ensure you return home from holidays refreshed and not frazzled.
