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For as long as I can remember, I have loved exploring the world. Travel has given me some of my most meaningful memories, but it has also challenged me in ways that many people don’t see.
Although I now call the United States home, I was born and raised in Europe. Many of the people I love most are still across the ocean, which means flying is often the bridge that connects me to my family and the places that shaped me. But for someone who experiences anxiety while flying, that bridge hasn’t always felt easy to cross.
Over time, I’ve learned that feeling comfortable while traveling isn’t about eliminating every worry or uncertainty. It’s about finding the little things that help create a sense of calm and confidence, even when stepping outside your comfort zone.
Through many journeys, I’ve discovered routines, tools, and travel essentials that help me feel more prepared, grounded, and ready to enjoy the adventure ahead. These are the things I now reach for before every trip—the small comforts that help make traveling feel a little easier.
Lavender Sachets: A Familiar Sense of Calm
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The very first thing I reach for once I’m settled into my seat is a small lavender sachet. The scent is incredibly grounding for me and instantly replaces the mix of unfamiliar airplane smells that can make me feel even more anxious.
Creating a familiar environment helps me feel more comfortable, and this little ritual has become part of my travel routine. I usually pack a few extra in my suitcase too—they keep my clothes smelling fresh throughout my trip and make every hotel room feel just a little more like home.
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A Sleep Mask That Creates My Own Little World
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A sleep mask is something I never travel without. For me, it’s less about sleeping and more about creating my own quiet little space.
Blocking out the cabin helps me step away from everything happening around me and gives my senses a break. When I’m feeling anxious, reducing some of the sights and stimulation around me can make a big difference.
I especially love contoured sleep masks that keep your eyelashes from touching the fabric—it’s a small detail, but it helps keep my mascara intact too.
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Noise-Canceling Headphones & BetterSleep
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Noise-canceling headphones are probably the most obvious item on my list, but I truly couldn’t travel without them.
I don’t want to hear every conversation, announcement, or sound happening around me. Instead, I love creating my own little world with calming sounds, music, or stories.
One app I absolutely love is BetterSleep. Their sleep stories help transport me somewhere else entirely. I’m currently addicted to Underwater City and listen to it almost every night, whether I’m traveling or at home. Hearing something familiar during a flight instantly feels comforting.
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You can also download the BetterSleep app before your next trip.
A Cozy Shawl
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No matter where I’m traveling, I always bring a large scarf or shawl. Even if I’m traveling somewhere warm, airplanes can be chilly, and wrapping myself up feels incredibly comforting.
It works as a blanket, a pillow cover, or just something cozy to wrap around myself. It has become one of those small things that makes a plane seat feel a little more like my own space.
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My Notebook
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A simple notebook has earned a permanent spot in my carry-on.
Sometimes I write, but often I use it for practical things—shopping lists, outfit ideas, travel plans, or my to-do list. Having something familiar to focus on gives my mind something productive to do instead of letting anxiety take over.
Sometimes the simplest things make the biggest difference.
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A Book I’m Already Excited About
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A good book makes long airport waits and flights feel much easier.
One thing I’ve learned is not to bring a book I’ve never opened before. I always read a little bit before traveling to make sure I’m truly interested in the story. That way, it’s easier to get lost in the pages when I need a distraction.
A good book can turn waiting into part of the adventure.
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My Favorite Travel Pillow
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A silky travel pillow is another must-have for me.
Sometimes I lean against it, sometimes I hug it, and somehow it just makes me feel more comfortable. I prefer ones with a removable cover because I can easily clean it, and I even use the space to store my headphones when I’m not using them.
I also love that mine straps onto my carry-on, which means one less thing to worry about while moving through the airport.
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Finding Comfort in the Journey
Traveling still makes me nervous, and I don’t expect that to change overnight. But I’ve learned that confidence doesn’t always come from feeling fearless.
Sometimes confidence comes from being prepared, creating little rituals, and surrounding yourself with familiar comforts.
These are the things I’ve collected over years of traveling with anxiety. They won’t make every flight perfect, but they’ve helped me focus less on the fear and more on the incredible places waiting on the other side.
If even one of these brings you a little more comfort on your next journey, then sharing them was worth it.