Traveling can be a lot of fun and the experience can be quite immersive especially if you see new sights, experience new things and meet new people. But even with all of the excitement you can still be hit with homesickness. Even the most experienced of travelers are not immune from feeling lonely and pining for family and friends, especially if they’ve been away for too long.

If you’re out travelling and you’re beginning to feel the slow onset of homesickness, don’t let it overwhelm you. Here are some things you can do to cope with homesickness:

1. Bring reminders of your loved ones in your travels

One of the best ways to conquer homesickness is by bringing mementos that will help you remember your loved ones. Bring photos with you whenever you travel. You can compile a small travel album containing photos of family, friends and pets that you can take out whenever you feel lonely. If you have kids, bringing some of their small toys is a sweet way of remembering them.

2. Buy gifts

One great way to lift your spirits is by buying gifts and souvenirs for your loved ones. Go around markets and stores and look for gifts that you know they will like. Make it as personalized as possible and the quest for that perfect gift will help you while away the time.

3. Create a routine

Idle time is the one thing that can exacerbate homesickness. You can help combat this by creating a routine for yourself. Creating a routine can be as simple as going to the same restaurant to eat your breakfast, or the same café to spend quiet weekend afternoons in. The familiarity of what you’re doing and the surroundings will help bring some comfort.

4. Look for “home” in the unfamiliar

Is there something you often do when you’re at home? Why not do some of it where you’re staying right now? For example, if you often stay in during weekends to watch a movie, then do it as well in the hotel or in the luxury serviced apartment you’re staying in. Look for a restaurant that serves your favorite cuisine.

5. Retail therapy

Lift up your spirits by pampering yourself. Buy clothes or a pair shoes. Go to an expensive restaurant. The retail therapy will make you feel special.

6. Keep communication lines open

With where technology is right now, it won’t be hard to communicate with your loved ones even on a daily basis. Set a time every day to give them a call, or better yet video conference with them so you’ll feel like they’re physically with you.

By: Derek Gallimore