It’s tough not being able to go on holiday. We can’t stop daydreaming about all the beautiful beaches, delicious street food and poolside lounging we could be enjoying. But we also have to be honest – there are some things about travel that we definitely don’t miss.

From lost luggage to screaming children on long-haul flights, there are some aspects of going on holiday that really suck. As much as we can’t wait to jump on a plane again, at least we don’t have to deal with these travel nightmares in the meantime. If you’re currently stuck at home and feeling sorry for yourself, this is the list to read. Plus, we’ve been so kind as to include solutions to these unfavourable situations for when you can safely travel again.

Travel Nightmares We Definitely Don’t Miss

1) LOST LUGGAGE

Now, we don’t want to scare you, but millions of bags are lost or damaged every year. Whether your luggage was incorrectly tagged, left in a corner or loaded onto the wrong plane, getting it back can be a massive pain. If you want to avoid the stress you’ll likely experience when an airline loses your bag, make sure to put your name and address on luggage tags and stick a copy of your itinerary inside your suitcase.

2) UNCOMFORTABLE PLANES

Being trapped for hours in a metal, bird-shaped structure is hardly most people’s idea of a good time - and when the guy sitting next to you is snoring and the woman in front is squishing your knees with her fully reclined seat, it’s difficult to relax. Plus, no matter how much you love kids, it’s hard to listen to them scream when you’re trying to have a quick snooze. To top off the joys of flying, it’s usually either too hot or too cold on board – so you just can’t win. To make the best of things, pack some ear plugs, treat yourself to a good book and just keep telling yourself you’re almost there. 

3) PACKING

Trying to cram everything into your carry on bag is a classic travel nightmare. Wardrobe decisions suddenly seem impossible and after an hour of flinging things around your room, you give up. Remember to take a breath and think about whether you really need those six pairs of sandals and two frisbees. The answer is almost always no. Trust us - you’ll thank yourself for leaving them at home when you end up having to run through the airport to make your flight.

Which brings us to...

4) MISSED CONNECTIONS

You’re racing through an airport, suitcase bumping behind you, and arrive at the gate red-faced and sweaty just as your flight takes off – sound familiar? If it does, you’re not alone. Missed connections are one of the most frustrating things about international flights and they can really ruin your holiday. And sometimes, thanks to rubbish weather or other issues, it’s totally out of your control. If you don’t have travel insurance, get yourself some before your next trip - and be nice to the gate attendant when they announce the bad news, because shouting at them won’t get you anywhere. 

5) PLANE FOOD

From chewy cheese sandwiches to questionable chicken curry, plane food doesn’t have the greatest reputation. Pre-made and pre-heated, it’s usually low on flavour and high in salt - but apparently it’s not all the food’s fault. Breathing at high altitude numbs our taste buds, making food taste blander. Plus, the intense air conditioning can make food dry out and cool down much faster than usual. On the bright side, this could be a great time to start your new diet - after all, those snacks you stashed in your handbag probably won’t taste as delicious as usual. 

6) AIRPORT SECURITY

Oh, security. Long lines, angry staff and confused passengers – it’s not fun for anyone. Trying to stuff all your liquids into a tiny plastic bag just adds to the mayhem. Be a hero and make things easier for yourself and everyone else by taking your laptop out early and leaving your belt at home.

7) DEALING WITH JETLAG

You arrive at your destination, leave the airport filled with enthusiasm and then fall asleep as soon as soon as you get to your hotel. When it comes to flying across the world, nobody’s safe from jetlag. It sneaks up on you when you least expect it and either keeps you up all night or completely knocks you out. Apparently it takes a full day to recover from each time zone you fly through. Try to include some rest and relaxation time next time you’re planning a holiday - and remember that you might have to deal with it all over again when you get home.

8) COMING HOME AND FACING REALITY

Why is real life always harder to face after a holiday? Going back to work, doing laundry and shopping for groceries all seems extra dull when you’ve just spent two weeks alternating between poolside cocktails and the beach. Unfortunately, that’s one you’ll just have to deal with because holidays don’t last forever. 

We Hate That We Can’t Travel Anymore - Here’s a Consolation Prize

In all seriousness, we really hate that we can’t travel anymore. We miss strolling along beaches, wandering through markets and blissing out in hotel spas. Although travel can be full of stressful moments, the good times always outweigh the bad… and there’s nothing more refreshing than escaping your normal life and taking time to relax. 

It’s worth remembering that these difficult and uncertain times will pass. Before we know it, we’ll be booking flights and planning sun-soaked trips again. In the meantime, check out our blog posts for holiday inspiration and make your own bucket list. We know it’s not quite the same as travelling, but it’s the best consolation prize we could think of. Happy daydreaming!