The past few months have presented challenges for many. However, for travelers, wanderlusters, and global adventurers, the closure of borders and the shrinking world has been particularly disheartening. Here are ten effective strategies to cope in the foreseeable future, as recommended by experts.
While not traveling is often seen as a first-world problem, the struggle many face is quite real. The good news is that there are several coping mechanisms and homebound hacks, as shared by over 300 travel experts who provided valuable advice. This overwhelming response indicates that this is a pressing issue for many.
Although virtual experiences can’t replace the sensation of physically being somewhere, many of the following strategies are both proven and innovative in helping us adjust while the travel industry remains paused. Below are the insights shared by the experts.
Accept the Changed World
As lockdowns began, many hoped for a swift end to the pandemic. Unfortunately, this did not transpire, and health officials anticipate a recovery period of one to two years before things return to “normal,” including travel. “Much like other significant societal events (e.g., 9/11, WWII), we will live in a post-COVID world that differs from what we once knew,” explains Thomas Plante, a licensed psychologist and professor at Stanford University. “This trend may persist for decades, requiring us to recognize that our travel experiences will evolve.”
Challenge Extreme Thinking
Accepting this new reality does not grant us permission to make sweeping statements about the future. Instead of declaring, “I’ll never travel again,” consider the question, “What will it take for me to travel again?” advises behavioral psychologist Christina Pierpaoli. “Extreme thoughts lack usefulness and can foster feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and diminish our desire to plan.” The first step in feeling more positively about the current state of travel is to avoid such extremes and treat this as a temporary “season” rather than a permanent “never-again” situation.
Develop Skills for Future Trips
This piece of advice resonated consistently among experts. Rather than waiting for global circumstances to shift, many have seized the opportunity to enhance their future travel experiences by learning new skills or languages. “My husband and I are taking kitesurfing lessons,” shares travel blogger Skye Sherman from South Florida. “Once we can travel again, we plan to visit premier kitesurfing destinations worldwide to showcase our new skills.” Similarly, consider earning your scuba certification, trying rock climbing, or even something as straightforward as renewing your passport.
Travel by Pen Pal
In my youth, I encountered a British boy in a “chat room,” which sparked my fascination with international travel. He became my first pen pal, and I fondly recall his vivid descriptions of everyday life. Although we’ve lost touch, the spirit of pen palling thrives. “I’ve been using Facebook groups to connect with experts in destinations I’m interested in,” says avid traveler Travis Luther. “Currently, many people worldwide are at home, bored, and online, creating opportunities to engage with international chefs or locals about their cultures.” Another idea is to reach out to fellow travelers with whom you’ve shared past experiences.
Focus on Local Trips for Now
You may be weary of the suggestion to “travel locally,” yet upon exploration, this approach can be rewarding. “For the last seven years, I’ve operated UncoveringPA.com, a blog dedicated to exploring Pennsylvania,” shares Jim Cheney. “Upon starting the site, I believed my state offered little of interest, but after visiting over 1,000 locations, I’ve discovered countless hidden gems. While I cherish international travel, I continue to uncover fantastic spots close to home.”
Time-Shift for New Perspective
This strategy can be entertaining, although it may require adjusting your sleep schedule. Ellen Levitt from Brooklyn enjoys experiencing at various times, particularly at night. “Try exploring your city or area at 2 AM, or wake up at 5 AM to witness the sunrise; many have likely not experienced this in years,” she recommends. Alternatively, consider hiking by moonlight, a favorite activity shared by many seasoned rangers.
Organize Old Travel Photos
Although you may have visited numerous captivating destinations, your photo collection might be disorganized. Utilize this downtime to “sort through and arrange your old adventure photos,” suggests Tammilee Tillison from Spokane, Washington. “After organizing, share them with friends and family or fellow travelers.” This exercise not only evokes pride and joy but also constitutes a form of “reminiscence therapy,” a psychological technique for reliving cherished memories.
Count Your Blessings
While feelings of disappointment about travel are entirely understandable, it’s crucial to focus on past experiences. “Remember that travel is a privilege often denied to many,” reflects Kara Patterson from Denver. “I’ve met individuals in the US who have never ventured beyond their home state and others abroad who have not explored neighboring countries. Those of us fortunate enough to experience global travel should remain grateful.”
Reinvent Yourself
Experts encourage individuals not to postpone their aspirations for normalcy. Embrace the present by reinventing yourself, perhaps through a new hobby or revisiting an old passion like music or art. Regardless of what it entails, adapting and thriving remains possible; after all, humans are remarkably resilient.
Additional Advice
Other insightful recommendations include: expanding your “travel fund” for future adventures, learning to prepare international dishes at home, exploring available online, revising your travel bucket list, or making home upgrades that will simplify future travels. “Currently, I’m updating my yard by removing grass for low-maintenance ground cover,” explains Erin Clarkson from , . “This will allow me to travel overseas for extended periods without concerns over yard maintenance.”
