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Confessions of an Anxious Traveler: 5 Tips Before Your Next Flight

This lighthearted guide shares tips and relatable anecdotes on managing travel anxiety, with a focus on prepping for fun-filled trips like Nashville while embracing the occasional airport meltdown and a well-timed pep talk from Mom.

Confessions of an Anxious Traveler: 5 Tips Before Your Next Flight Jetblue Fined By Dept. Of Transportation For Excessive Delays
(Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

Tips Before Your Next Flight: Navigating Trips When You’d Rather Stay Home

Gearing up for a trip to Nashville should feel exciting. After all, it’s a city bursting with live music, great food, and vibrant energy. But as an anxious traveler, my pre-trip emotions are far less honky-tonk and more... spiraling. This will be my third trip to Nashville, and while I know it’s worth it, I’d be lying if I said the lead-up wasn’t its own kind of challenge. Over time, I’ve learned a few tricks to calm my nerves and remind myself that there was a reason I booked this trip in the first place: to have fun. Here are some tips and anecdotes from my journey that might help you too.

1. Pack Early and Strategically

Packing last minute is a surefire way to set off my anxiety, so I’ve learned to pack a few days in advance. All of my "essential essentials" go straight into my carry-on, no exceptions: phone charger, AirPods, Clorox wipes, hand sanitizer, Kindle, charging bank, gum, mini perfume, sunglasses, and lip balm. Basically, if it fits in a pouch and makes me feel like I’m a functional human, it’s coming with me. Knowing I’m prepared helps ease that nagging feeling I’ve forgotten something important—like, you know, my sanity.

2. Create a Pre-Flight Ritual

My pre-flight ritual is part practical, part self-care, and part comedy routine. After battling my way through TSA like it’s the Hunger Games, I reward myself with a drink at the nearest airport bar—because nothing says "you’ve got this" like an overpriced cocktail. Then, I call my mom for the obligatory pep talk, during which she reassures me that, yes, I will survive this flight, and yes, Nashville is still as fun as I remember. It’s a bit of a theatrical performance, but hey, it works.

3. Focus on the Destination, Not the Journey

As someone who’d rather stay home in the comfort of my own bed, I’ve learned to shift my thoughts to what I’m excited about: the incredible live performances on Broadway, the southern charm of Nashville’s food scene, and even the sheer joy of people-watching. Reminding myself of these highlights can help drown out the endless loop of “What if I miss my flight?” and “What if something goes wrong?”

4. Bring Comfort Items

Whether it’s a cozy travel blanket, my favorite playlist, or a book that feels like an old friend, comfort items are a must. A little familiarity can make the unfamiliar feel a bit less daunting.

5. Be Okay With Asking for Help

No, I’m not about to strike up a conversation with a stranger—let’s not get crazy. But I’ve learned that it’s okay to ask for help when needed, whether it’s clarifying the gate number or, in my case, subtly signaling to the flight attendant that I might need an extra cup of water (or wine) to survive takeoff. Knowing help is there if I need it keeps me grounded—pun intended.

6. Set Small Goals

Instead of thinking about the entire trip, I focus on one step at a time. First: Get to the airport. Next: Survive TSA. After that: Grab a snack and settle into my gate. Breaking it down into manageable pieces makes it feel less overwhelming and keeps me from spiraling.

Final Thoughts

As I prepare for this upcoming trip to Nashville, I’m already reminding myself why I booked it: to laugh, to listen to incredible music, and to make memories. Anxiety may be my unwelcome travel companion, but it doesn’t get the final say. So if you’re an anxious traveler like me, know that you’re not alone. And the next time you’re at the airport bar, drink in hand, about to call your mom for reassurance, just remember: You’ve got this.

5 Direct Frontier Airlines Flights You Can Take Out Of Philadelphia

There are some great direct Frontier Airlines flights out of Philadelphia. If you want to go on a trip, they got you!

Layovers are hard, right? There's having to change planes and running through busy airport terminals to make sure you catch your next flight. Then, the possibility of delays making your travel schedule hectic and complicated. And don't even get me started on the possibility of the airport losing your luggage.

Flying direct is sometimes just the way to go. Sometimes, though, affordable direct flights are hard to come by. Here is where Frontier steps in! They have plenty of direct flights to a ton of fantastic destinations.

Essentially, if you haven’t taken advantage of your vacation time this year, you might want to consider it now, because we put together a list of places Frontier can take you. These are locations that do not require a layover in a random city. No stress, no booking it to another terminal, and no bag loss.

It’s getting to that time of year when we all need a well-deserved break. You probably find yourself looking out the window at work, staring at the weather outside, daydreaming. You need a good vacation. It’s always a good idea to get some time to relax.

Vacation shouldn't be a source of MORE stress. Taking a direct flight can take some of that pressure out of going on a trip. There are fewer steps, making it quicker to get to your vacation destination.

Philadelphians rejoice! Take a break and find a flight that tickles your fancy. Or, if you were already planning on going to one of these places soon, consider flying Frontier and go direct. Pack your bags and get ready to set off.

Here Are Some Direct Frontier Airlines Flights Out Of Philadelphia:

Miami, FL

South Florida Replacing Palm Trees With Leafy Trees To Combat Climate Change

Miami is a largely popular vacation spot. The Miami area has something to do for everyone. From the trendy nightlife of South Beach to the energy of Little Havana, there is always something going on. For those who like it a bit more tame, there are opportunities for deep-sea fishing, golf, and tennis. The cherry on top? The ability to see beaches and palm trees is in stark contrast to what we have here in Philly!

Knoxville. TN

knoxville tennessee sunsphere on a sunny day

Knoxville has what you’re looking for, whether it's family fun or a private couple's getaway. There is a bustling nightlife in the city, with tons of great local bars to hit up. If that's not your speed, Knoxville's museums can help you learn some more about the city and its culture. Plus, there are tons of ways to get outside and get active in Knoxville's many parks and trails.

Orlando, FL

Walt Disney World Resort Celebrates 45th Anniversary to Colorful Fanfare

I mean, of course, there are THE theme parks. If you're looking for a family-friendly vacation, Orlando's iconic theme parks got you. With tons of chances to get in on the amusement fun, you're sure not to be at a shortage of things to do. This is a hugely popular vacation spot, so you will be sure to find tons of helpful guides on your trip to Orlando.

Chicago, IL

Chicago Sees First Snow Fall Of Season

Chicago is more than the deep-dish, gang! There is no shortage of fun in this city. Consider going to the historic Wrigley Field to watch some baseball, or taking a river-boat cruise. If you like shopping, stroll down the 13-block stretch of Michigan Avenue, dubbed The Magnificent Mile. It is home to hundreds of stores, from high-end designers to department stores. Or, take in some rich musical history and learn about Chicago's jazz and blues culture.

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Spring Breakers Return To Florida Beaches One Year After Start Of Pandemic

Hit the beach where the water is far bluer. Lay under some palm trees with a drink in your hand and enjoy. Fort Lauderdale is chock-full of luxurious resorts, yachts, and dream homes. The proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway is responsible for Fort Lauderdale’s beachfront promenade, which is a great place to visit on vacation. Don't forget opportunities for fishing, diving, and water sports, as well as shopping, dining, nightlife, and people-watching.

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