Public transport during peak hours can be intense and noisy. Due to this, more than two-thirds (68%) of Brits feel overwhelmed and stressed travelling with expensive items.
Stressed travelling leads to forgetfulness
Heightened stress while travelling can cause distraction and forgetfulness. Over one in five (21%) have lost the same item twice on public transport. Buses and coaches account for 43% of these losses, closely followed by trains at 43%.
Airports more stressful than interviews
A third (33%) of Brits find airports the most stressful travel environment. This surpasses stress from job interviews (26%), work commutes (10%), and school runs (8%).
Arriva reveals 2024’s lost items
Reflecting on a year of travel, Arriva’s Greenline service to Luton Airport uncovered numerous lost items in 2024. Phones topped the list, followed by purses, wallets, and Apple AirPods. Unusual items included boxes of Lego, fridge magnets, Madeira wine, vitamins, a disposable camera, and an EasyJet jacket.
Psychologist explains stress-memory link
Psychologist Dr. Ravi Gill explains the connection between stress and memory. “Stress demands mental energy and attention, making it difficult to concentrate on tasks,” she says. Elevated cortisol levels can disrupt memory formation and retrieval. The perception of limited time triggers stress hormones, leading to feelings of urgency and potential forgetfulness.
Tips to manage stressed travelling
To combat travel stress and prevent item loss, Dr. Gill offers these tips:
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Travel with a safety object: A small sentimental item can act as a grounding tool.
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Pre-plan mini moments of joy: Plan little treats during your journey, like enjoying your favourite music playlist.
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Create a personal bubble: Use noise-cancelling headphones with ambient soundscapes to create a peaceful environment.
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Make an inventory: List all expensive items you’re bringing, including photos and descriptions.
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Keep valuables close: Avoid placing expensive items in checked luggage; instead, keep them in your carry-on.
For those who have lost items on Arriva services, visit their Lost Property page for assistance.
To plan a journey with arriva or for further information on Arriva’s bus routes, including the Greenline service, visit Arriva UK Bus.
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