Traveling can be stressful ― even if you’re thrilled for your trip. So why not start off on the right foot?
While everyone has their own way of settling in when arriving to a new destination, there are a few tried-and-true habits that can help you ease into your adventure. And, according to travel experts, one move in particular can reset your mind and body and acclimate you to your destination.
Ahead, we spoke with two travelers on the main way they prefer to start their vacations (plus a few bonus tips), so you feel refreshed and ready to go.
Go for a walk outside.
Whether you’ve just gotten off a long flight or endured a lengthy car or train ride, each expert we spoke to said getting your body moving is a must.
“Fresh air, sunlight, and movement are key after a long flight,” said Athena Livadas, travel advisor and founder of Páme Travel. “Take a walk along the beach, stroll through a park, or explore the hotel’s neighborhood. It’s a great way to adjust to your new environment while helping your body fight off jet lag.”
It’s true: Exposure to natural light helps regulate your body’s circadian rhythm, especially if you’re trying to fight off jet lag and adjust your sleep schedule. And walking also helps fire up your brain, helping you stay awake.
Lauren Wilt, USA CEO of luxury travel concierge service Quintessentially, also loves getting outside to take a walk right when getting to her vacation destination.
“This helps with much needed fresh air after travel and [helps me] get my bearings in a new place,” she said. “If it’s a city break, I love to see what’s around the immediate area. … If it’s a country or nature holiday, a walk helps me to see what’s on property and explore what’s available during my stay.”
Try some of these other methods, too.
After taking a quick stroll, Wilt and Livadas both said they unpack before embarking on their itinerary. While it’s easy to leave your belongings in your bags so you can get your trip away started, taking the time to unpack your clothes, toiletries and other items will help prevent disorganization down the line.
“Taking the time to unpack and organize your stuff when you arrive helps you feel more grounded and less chaotic after traveling,” Livadas said. “Plus, it saves you time when getting ready for the rest of your trip. No one likes digging through a suitcase.”
“It takes a few minutes, but I find in the long run it’s a time-saver during a vacation,” Wilt noted. “Unpacking also helps me feel settled at home in an unfamiliar place.”
Booking dinner reservations at a local restaurant is also a great way to ensure your body is full and energized.
“Having a dinner reservation on your first night is a smart way to adjust to the local time zone,” Livadas said. “It forces you to stay awake and eat during normal meal times, making it easier to acclimate while giving you something to look forward to.”
Aside from that, Livadas personally chooses not to jam-pack her arrival day with too many plans to keep the day stress-free.
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“I always like to keep the first day of any trip flexible ― it’s important to adjust based on how you’re feeling after a long journey,” she said. “That said, having a few key plans in place, like where to eat and how to unwind, can take the pressure off when you’re tired and not in the mood for decision-making.”