How to Beat Pre-Travel Anxiety ✈️ 3 Ways to Calm Those Jitters

That “night before” feeling is so real—especially before a big international trip. You’ve been planning and anticipating for so long that it’s no surprise your brain goes into overdrive. The good news? Pre-trip stress is completely normal! Almost everyone feels it at some point.

Here are three practical ways to ease that “what if I forget something?” worry and step into your trip with confidence:

A Few Days Before You Travel

1. Make a Master List (and Check It Off Early) A couple of days before, create a simple packing checklist—clothes, toiletries, documents, electronics, meds. Keep it somewhere visible (on the fridge or in your notes app) so you can check things off as you go. Each checkmark is a little dose of peace of mind.

2. Do a Trial Pack Set aside an afternoon about a week before to lay everything out and do a test pack. This way, you’ll know if it all fits comfortably, spot anything you’re missing, and avoid the dreaded night-before scramble.

3. Use a “Don’t Forget” Pouch Keep a small zippered pouch by your purse or carry-on with your absolute essentials:

• Passport

• Travel documents

• Prescription meds

• Phone & charger

• Wallet/credit card

That way, even if you forget socks or a hairbrush, you’ll still have the non-negotiables with you.

✨ Bonus mindset shift: remind yourself—Italy has stores! Almost anything (except your passport and medications) can be replaced if needed.

The Night Before You Travel

🌙 Do a Quick “Peace of Mind” Check

• Put your passport, travel documents, medications, and wallet in your carry-on.

• Double-check your flight time and set your alarm for the morning.

🛏 Set Yourself Up for Rest

• Lay out your travel clothes and shoes so there’s no rushing.

• Keep a glass of water and your phone charger by the bed.

• Try journaling a few lines: what you’re excited for, what you’re grateful for, or even just “I’m ready for tomorrow.” Writing helps release anxious loops.

• Everything else? Already packed. And if you forgot something small—Italy’s got you covered.

❤️ Gentle Reminder

It’s completely normal to feel jitters before a big adventure—but anxiety is really just excitement wearing a different outfit. You’re prepared. You’re capable. And once you step onto that plane, the joy of travel will take over.

You’ve got this—and Italy is waiting! 🇮🇹✨