Planning a vacation can be exciting, but the aftermath often leaves many travelers feeling completely drained. Why is traveling so tiring, and what can you do to combat this travel fatigue? The Reddit travel community has been actively discussing this very question, offering valuable insights and practical tips.
The original poster shared their experience: “I used to travel a lot when younger – I’m now in my 30s. Took a round trip this week for work, first time travelling solo in almost 20 years… Dang! Since coming back all I want to do is sleep, lounge, watch shows, but even my body hurts/throat is sore/head aches a bit almost like I’m sick. It’s day two of this after being back now! Is this normal???”
The Reality of Travel Fatigue
Many Reddit users reassured the original poster that their experience is indeed normal. Several factors contribute to the feeling of exhaustion after traveling:
- Constant movement: Switching hotels, navigating new environments, and being on the go constantly can be physically demanding.
- Overstimulation: New sights, sounds, and experiences can be mentally overwhelming, leading to fatigue.
- Disrupted routines: Changes in sleep schedules, eating habits, and exercise routines can impact your energy levels.
One user confessed, “Went on an 18-day trip across western Europe… by the time we got back to Paris for our final three days, we didn’t want to go anywhere.” This sentiment highlights the cumulative effect of travel on the body and mind.
Travel: Energizing or Exhausting?
Interestingly, some travelers find the experience energizing, with the fatigue only setting in upon returning home.
“Oddly enough, I feel energised when I travel and exhausted when I’m back home,” one user wrote. “I can pull 20,000 steps and a day’s worth of attractions no problem, going on for two weeks. But as soon as I’m home, it’s back to slug life. Might be the stimulation and adrenaline/excitement pushing me through when I travel. I just love it.”
This suggests that the excitement and novelty of travel can temporarily mask fatigue, but the underlying physical and mental strain remains.
The Role of Age and Fitness
Age and overall fitness levels also play a significant role in how travel affects your energy levels.
One humorous comment stated, “I’m 40 and I’m exhausted every time I have to leave my house, so yah.” However, a more serious response emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to combat travel fatigue.
One 44-year-old shared their experience of still backpacking, staying in hostels, and walking 25,000-40,000 steps per day. “My primary enabler is averaging 10,000 steps per day all year in my daily life,” they added. “It keeps me spry.” This highlights the importance of regular exercise in building endurance for travel.
The Possibility of Illness
It’s also crucial to consider the possibility of illness when experiencing post-travel fatigue.
“Just saying, it’s possible that you are sick,” says one comment, with more than 100 upvotes. “Normal to feel exhausted especially if it was a busy trip, but sore throat, body aches and headache is not necessarily normal.”
Traveling exposes you to a variety of germs and viruses, so it’s essential to be mindful of your health and seek medical attention if necessary. As one user stressed, “Travelling can involve being exposed to a lot of illnesses. You need a lot of rest afterward.”
Tips for Avoiding Travel Fatigue
While it’s difficult to avoid all the factors that contribute to travel fatigue, here are some tips to minimize its impact:
- Plan ahead: Avoid cramming too many activities into each day.
- Schedule breaks: Incorporate downtime into your itinerary to rest and recharge.
- Listen to your body: Don’t push yourself too hard.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to combat dehydration.
- Eat healthy: Maintain a balanced diet to fuel your body.
- Get enough sleep: Prioritize sleep to allow your body to recover.
- Consider immune-boosting supplements: Consult with your doctor about taking supplements to support your immune system.
One 35-year-old emphasized the importance of planning: “I usually plan my vacations eight to 10 days. I’ve never felt wiped out yet. My feet hurt a lot after a while on vacation cause I never know where to stop, I spend my whole day doing things. But I find that pain sweet… Planning takes time and my vacation time is for vacationing, not for planning.”
Another poster echoed this sentiment: “Most people try to cram way too much stuff into your schedule every day. Have longer breaks in between attractions where you just roam around or where you sit down at a cafe. It’s a vacation not a job, you’re not there to ‘complete’ the vacation. You are there to enjoy it.”
Know Your Limits and Plan Accordingly
Expert traveler Louisa Rodgers advises to “know your enemy”. Understanding your personal triggers for tiredness, such as crowds or traffic, can help you strategize and minimize their impact.
Embrace the Mental Refreshment
While travel can be physically draining, it also offers unique opportunities for mental stimulation and refreshment. Embrace the new experiences, learn about different cultures, and allow yourself to be inspired by the world around you.
Conclusion
So, why is traveling so tiring? It’s a combination of physical exertion, mental overstimulation, disrupted routines, and potential exposure to illness. By understanding these factors and implementing strategies to mitigate their impact, you can minimize travel fatigue and maximize the enjoyment of your adventures. Remember to plan ahead, listen to your body, and prioritize rest and well-being. And most importantly, embrace the mental refreshment that travel offers, allowing you to return home feeling invigorated and inspired.
