8 Tricks for People with Travel Anxiety

Apply For TSA Pre-Check

Security lines at the airport are long.TSA Pre-Check is an expedited screening program for passengers that are considered low-risk. To apply, fill out an online form and arrange an interview (there’s also an $85 fee). Once approved, you’ll zip through lines without shoe removal for a full five years.

Spring For Extra Leg Room

It will usually run you an extra $25 to $35 per ticket, but for a cross-country flight, those extra five inches are worth every cent.

Read "Cockpit Confidential"

Pilot Patrick Smith will majorly calm your fears with his detailed analysis of how a million-pound 747 airliner actually gets off the ground and what actually happens if you leave your iPhone on during takeoff (hint: nothing).

Consider Essential Oils

Water (not coffee) is a major jet lag cure. Still, if you have to hit the ground running the minute you land, carry lemongrass oil, a scent with a stimulating and uplifting effect that will help fight fatigue.

Download Google Maps

No GPS? No problem. Just download maps of your destination in advance, and then you can pull up walking directions to, say, that cute little bistro, any time you want.

Pack Cipro

If you’re going to a country where water or food contamination is a concern, most doctors will write you a script for antibiotics in advance. Pack those suckers in your carry-on and pray that you don’t need to use them.

Rent Portable Wi-Fi

MiFi and HipPocket are just a few services that offer mobile hot spots you can keep in your pocket for anytime use (even internationally). Rent them at the airport for as little as $5 a day.

Download Google Translate

Worst case scenario, you can point at the screen.