How to overcome your fear of travelling

Ultima actualizare Luni, 15/09/2025

A young person holding a tablet, looking at the window, travelling on a train. For many young people across Europe, the idea of travelling sparks excitement and curiosity. While some young people may experience excitement when considering their next travel destination, others may find the idea daunting.

According to the European Travel Commission’s report, 66% of young people aged 18-24 plan to travel between June and November of 2025, despite being aware of potential financial and time constraints.

The latest Eurodesk Youth Info Survey reveals that, although young people are eager to travel, many face several barriers along the way. Understanding and working on these barriers is important to help young people embrace mobility and all the benefits it offers.

The most common barriers include financial issues, lack of information, and difficulties with language skills or making new friends. Young people who belong to minority groups, such as non-binary individuals, those facing economic instability, or living with disabilities, often experience these challenges.

This fear of travelling is known as hodophobia, which refers to an intense fear that can arise from feeling overwhelmed in new environments, experiencing transportation delays, or worrying about how to navigate a new place without getting lost. Such fears can lead to anxiety, stress, dizziness, and sweating.

Fortunately, there are practical ways to overcome these barriers. One of the most effective ways is to apply mobility programmes and resources designed specifically for young Europeans. These mobility opportunities often cover these expenses either fully or partially through organisational funding. Specific actions are also support group mobility, which can be more accessible if you are not used to travelling alone.

For example, EU initiatives like DiscoverEU allow 18-year-olds to explore Europe by rail, offering a free travel pass!

Other initiatives aim to reduce the financial burden of travel through discounts. The European Youth Card is another invaluable tool that helps reduce the financial burden of travel. Valid in 38 European countries, this card offers discounts on accommodation, transport, cultural activities, and dining, making it easier for young people to explore new places while managing their budgets. Such discounts can ease the pressure of travel expenses and open doors to experiences that might otherwise seem out of reach.

Mobility itself can take many forms, from rail journeys and budget flights to cycling tours or even volunteering and study exchanges. Erasmus+ exemplifies this diversity by providing opportunities for study and traineeships across Europe and beyond, often with financial support to cover travel and living costs.

These various modes of travel not only cater to different preferences and situations but also enhance the travel experience by facilitating personal growth, promoting intercultural understanding, and creating new social connections.

Travelling offers benefits that go far beyond the immediate joy of exploring new places.Young people who travel gain independence, resilience, and a clearer understanding of the world. They also develop language skills, cultural awareness, and adaptability qualities that will surely be invaluable in their daily life.

Additionally, travelling promotes personal growth by encouraging young people to step outside their comfort zones, develop confidence, and create lasting memories and new friendships.

To make the most of these opportunities, proper preparation is crucial. You can overcome language barriers by learning basic phrases or using translation apps. Additionally, social anxieties can be reduced by connecting with local youth groups or fellow travellers through online platforms.

It is also important to take care of your mental health when travelling. Eurodesk’s Time to Mind brochure guides young travellers on how to manage stress and maintain their wellbeing while being abroad, offering practical advice, tips and resources.

Planning ahead and obtaining reliable information, such as from the European Youth Portal, which has a dedicated section just for travelling, can empower you to travel with confidence and enjoy your experiences more.

Travel can pose challenges for young Europeans, but with appropriate planning and having resources available, these barriers can be addressed.

Written by Eurodesk Brussels Link