You know who you are; the person who cringes at “not all who wander are lost” typography and rolls your eyes at people who are “immune to jetlag.” It’s okay! No need to insincerely use the plane emoji any longer! Despite society romanticizing the process of getting from point A to point B it’s perfectly legitimate not to buy into it. By travel of course I’m not referring to seeing new sights and experiencing all of the amazing cultures that exist outside of your own. I’m talking about the part in between sitting on your suitcase as you zip it closed and wandering wide-eyed through a new environment. I’m not talking about the what of your trip but the how. So for the next time your friends silently judge you for not travelling over break here are five reasons why it's 100% okay to hate travelling.
It gives you anxiety
Boarding pass, ID, passport, phone, cash, foreign currency, clothing, medication, watch... if just thinking about the never-ending packing list gets your pulse racing and your stomach in knots you’re not alone. Planning a big trip can take more organization than all of your classes combined, and it only makes sense that such an intense schedule of planes trains and automobiles leaves you imagining every worst case scenario. When you’re on a plane or waiting for a delayed train you’re no longer in control. Your schedule depends entirely on the smooth operation of a system that is often at the mercy of unpredictable factors like the weather. Just because you think you should push yourself to get out of your comfort zone doesn’t mean you should make yourself a nervous wreck or try and fight a panic attack. Pay attention to what makes you happy and plan accordingly.
It makes you sick
Most forms of travel can make anyone a little queasy but for those with chronic illnesses or lowered immune systems it can mean a vacation spent entirely in your hotel room. You should never feel ashamed for not enjoying something that causes you physical pain or extreme discomfort. Don’t be afraid to choose a less time-efficient way to reach your destination if it improves your overall experience and is just plain better for you!
It’s expensive
Don’t even try to disagree with me. Yes you can earn miles. Yes you can sometimes find discounted fares. But for a college student on a tight budget spring break in Belize is not always realistic. You may have the time of your life on a European excursion in a few years, but it only makes sense now to save up so you can enjoy your trip without your financial woes and student loans weighing you down. Only you know what’s best for your financial situation.
You’re alone
An adventure by yourself can be an amazing experience, but if you hate spending hours by yourself and are inexperienced trotting the globe you might find yourself reconsidering. On a solo trip there’s no one else to help organize, come to the rescue in case of an emergency, or share the experience with. This is especially true if you’re a nervous flier or tend to stress about a last minute change in plans. Being squished between two strangers amongst a chorus of screaming babies is not everyone’s cup of tea.
It’s dangerous
Reason Number Five is not brought to you by the Association of Fear Mongering Evening News Headlines. It is brought to you however by a woman who has spent too many train rides feeling afraid for her safety. You can say all you want about the heightened security of many forms of travel and the infrequency of crime. I’m more concerned with the number of times I feel unsafe than the number of crimes that are actually committed. If I were a 6’5’’ football player I would not have this issue, but unfortunately a 5’6’’ woman does not have the same luxury of perceived security. It’s taxing to constantly be aware of your surroundings at an airport where the crowds are in constant flux. It’s exhausting to have to pretend to receive a phone call when walking through a parking garage. It’s arduous to be told I should enjoy travelling when being on constant alert is anything but.
These are just a few reasons, but there are many more that are just as valid. No one should ever be made to feel bad for not sharing a particular interest. Maybe instead of reaching outwards towards new places and people you should take a moment to enjoy the ones you have right now. It's true you won't be this young and free forever, so instead of spending your time in transit, consider making the most of your current surroundings.
