Vacation stressing you out? Most common stressors, how to fix

Vacations are meant to be stress-free mental breaks spent laying out on white sand beaches, exploring new cities or getting some much-needed R&R.

But according to a new "Vacation Ready" survey of 1,037 American adults from Wyndham Vacation Rentals, American vacationers are dealing with a multitude of stressors.

Survey respondents that have gone on or planned a vacation in the last 12 months were asked about their experiences.

The results showed the top causes of stress for vacationers included spending too much money (61 percent), packing (49 percent), keeping everyone happy and entertained (48 percent) and finding accommodations (46 percent).

Sixty-seven percent of the respondents also said they’ve been stressed from information overload and having too many options when planning a vacation.

In addition, a quarter of vacationers in the survey said they’ve broken up with their partner after a stressful vacation but the same ratio said they’ve met the love of their lives during their travels, so all hope isn’t lost.

More fun metrics from the Wyndham survey:

More than one-third of the surveyed travelers questioned their friendships after taking a vacation.
But 3 in 5 grew closer with someone on vacation.
Nearly half (49 percent) said social media negatively impacted their trip.
More than half (51 percent) would rather give up alcohol for a month or social media for a week to avoid packing.

According to the survey, all these stressors are actually causing many Americans (37 percent) to cancel or delay their trip.

When asked how vacation planning on traveling could be a little easier, survey respondents said more space and privacy in their accommodations, a ready-made itinerary and the option to do laundry on vacation would all help alleviate stress.

About the Author

Fiza Pirani