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9 Tips For Planning The Most Relaxing Vacation Of Your Life

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, September 2nd 2025 at 8:54 GMT by Bustle
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Travel in Calm: A Practical Guide to Turning Jet‑Set Stress into a Zen‑Like Experience

In a world where the rush to “see it all” often turns a vacation into a frantic race, Bustle’s recent feature “How to Make Travel More Relaxing” offers a breath‑taking counter‑argument: you can still explore new cities, islands, and cultures without feeling exhausted or overwhelmed. The piece, written by travel‑savvy journalist Alex Smith, distills a dozen evidence‑backed tips and real‑world hacks that transform the typical travel routine from a logistical nightmare into a mindful, enjoyable adventure. Below is a comprehensive summary of the article, broken into the key themes that Smith highlights, complete with the useful resources and links that accompany each tip.

1. Plan With Purpose, Not Panic

Smith opens with a reminder that the very act of planning can become a source of anxiety if you treat it as a bullet‑point list of tasks. Instead, she recommends setting a trip intention: a simple question that guides the rest of your preparations – “What do I want to feel or experience?” Once you know the answer—whether it’s immersion in local culture, relaxation on a beach, or an adrenaline‑packed adventure—you can prioritize the details that matter most.

• Link to the “Trip Intention Worksheet” (provided by Smith) gives readers a printable template for setting goals, budgeting, and establishing a flexible itinerary.

2. Smart Packing: Less is More

One of the biggest stressors in travel is over‑packing. Smith shares a “3‑Bag” system: a carry‑on, a checked bag (if you’re taking one), and a “just‑in‑case” bag that fits in your carry‑on. She suggests packing clothes that mix and match, choosing versatile pieces, and leaving room for souvenirs.

• The article links to a “Travel Packing Guide” by The Spruce, which includes checklists for different climates and travel styles.

• Smith also recommends a packing cube—an inexpensive tool that keeps items organized and speeds up airport security checks.

3. The Right Seat Can Change Everything

Air travel is notoriously stressful. Smith advises booking seats early, either through the airline’s own system or a travel‑app like SeatGuru. She recommends the mid‑aisle seat on narrow‑body planes for easier movement and the window seat on wide‑body for privacy and a view. For layovers, a seat with a footrest can make a world of difference.

• A link to “How to Choose the Best Seat on a Flight” (an article by The Points Guy) explains seat categories, comfort factors, and how to use airline loyalty points for upgrades.

4. Mindful Travel Apps

Technology can either be a blessing or a curse. Smith points out that the right apps can reduce anxiety by keeping you organized and connected:

• TripIt – turns your email confirmations into a single itinerary map.
• Google Maps Offline – guarantees you can navigate even without data.

• Headspace – offers guided meditations specifically for travelers.

• Link to a list of “Must‑Have Travel Apps” (from Travel + Leisure) is included for readers who want to dive deeper.

5. Layover Logic

Long layovers are a common source of dread. Smith’s trick is to treat them as mini‑adventures:

1. Find a “quiet zone” at the airport, such as a lounge or a quiet corner near the gates.
2. Use airport Wi‑Fi to catch up on podcasts, read, or work.
3. Book a “sleep pod” or a nearby hotel if the wait is >4 hours. Many airports partner with chains like Snooze and Hotel One for discounted rates.

• The article includes a link to “How to Use Airport Lobbies as Mini‑Retreats”, an expert interview with a meditation teacher who offers airport‑based mindfulness exercises.

6. Stay Hydrated, Eat Smart, and Move

Jet lag and jet stress often show up in the stomach. Smith emphasizes:

• Hydration – bring a refillable water bottle and drink 8‑10 glasses before and during the flight.
• Healthy snacks – almonds, dried fruit, or protein bars keep the blood sugar steady.

• Movement – walking the aisle every 45 minutes during flights, stretching on planes, and doing light yoga at the hotel room before bed.

• There’s a link to “The Best Airplane Food to Avoid” by Healthline, which highlights high‑sodium meals that can aggravate dehydration.

7. Leverage Travel Insurance as a Stress Buffer

Accidents, cancellations, or medical emergencies can derail your plans. Smith argues that a good travel insurance policy offers peace of mind that outweighs the cost.

• She links to “Travel Insurance 101” from the Insurance Information Institute, which demystifies terms like “trip cancellation” and “baggage loss” coverage.

8. Mindful Arrival: The “Two‑Hour Rule”

The article’s heart‑warming tip is the “Two‑Hour Rule.” Once you land, give yourself two hours to rest, rehydrate, and set a small, achievable goal before diving into the full itinerary. This can be:

• Taking a short walk in the airport to get your bearings.
• Checking in to your hotel and unpacking a bit.
• Ordering a light breakfast or a coffee that tastes local.

By treating the first two hours as a reset rather than a rush, you build resilience for the days ahead.

9. Digital Detox and Presence

The final section tackles the paradox of staying connected while also being present. Smith suggests turning off notifications for travel apps for at least 24 hours after you arrive and creating a “no‑phone zone” in your accommodation. Instead, use a paper journal or a digital note to record impressions, which can be a therapeutic exercise in mindfulness.

10. Resources and Further Reading

Throughout the article, Smith weaves in several valuable external resources:

• The Spruce’s Packing Guide – for climate‑specific checklists.
• The Points Guy’s Seat Selection Guide – to understand seat options and upgrade strategies.
• Healthline’s Food Advice – to choose healthier flight meals.
• Travel + Leisure’s App List – to build your tech toolkit.
• Insurance Information Institute’s Guide – to grasp the basics of travel insurance.

These links offer readers deeper dives into specific hacks and serve as a practical toolkit for their next trip.

Bottom Line

Smith’s piece is a gentle, yet powerfully actionable, reminder that travel can—and should—be a restorative experience. By shifting focus from a rigid itinerary to a flexible mindset, packing smarter, leveraging technology thoughtfully, and caring for the body and mind through hydration, movement, and mindfulness, travelers can significantly reduce stress. The result? A journey where the memories you create are as comforting as the moments you cherish. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a first‑time traveler, the tips in Bustle’s “How to Make Travel More Relaxing” can help you reclaim the joy of exploration without the burnout.