Travel Anxiety Sucks — Here Are 7 Easy Tips To Soothe It

Maura Jenkins
Apr 19, 2024
travel anxiety

Traveling can be so rewarding; new experiences lend to a broader and more understanding mindset and taking time away from your everyday routine can feel like a much-needed breath of fresh air. Whether you’re headed away on a quick weekend accompanied only by a carry-on, or jet setting on a bachelorette trip to celebrate a lifelong girlfriend, trips are good for the mind, body, and soul.

While the positive aspects that accompany traveling are plenty, it’s completely normal to experience anxiety around this process as well. It’s inevitable that each time you take a trip you’re usually forced to encounter one uncomfortable situation or another; planned or not. Maybe your flight gets delayed, your friend can no longer watch your pet while you’re away, or you get sick just days before heading overseas; the unpredictability of travel can be extremely anxiety-inducing, and we get that.

Instead of leaving you to fly solo to stress about the potential anxieties of any upcoming trips you may have on your calendar, we spoke with California-based mental health professor, Dr. Ishan Shivanandwho has experience in groundbreaking protocols for reversing symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, and more.

What is anxiety?

Photo by Liza Summer/PEXELS

Dr. Shivanand describesanxiety as "a complex state that can manifest in various forms and intensities, affecting both the mind and the body." He continued, saying, “At its core, anxiety involves feelings of worry, fear, and unease, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, sweating, trembling, and difficulty concentrating. One way to understand anxiety is to think of it as the mind being overwhelmed by the multitude of thoughts, concerns, and stimuli bombarding it at any given moment. Just like a computer with too many open applications, the mind struggles to process everything efficiently, leading to a sense of being scattered and unable to focus.”

Why do I get anxious when I travel?

Image via Cora Pursley/Dupe

When it comes to anxiety specific to travel, the reason for why you may experience these uncomfortable feelings could be due to a multitude of reasons and can vary in intensity from person to person. Dr. Shivanand shared that travel anxiety could be in part due to “fear of the unknown, fear of safety, fear of flying, control issues, and past traumatic experiences,” as well other areas of anxiety including “separation anxiety, social anxiety, and health anxiety.” Dr. Shivanand went on to explain that, although fun, “traveling often involves stepping outside of one's comfort zone and encountering unfamiliar situations, environments, and people. For some individuals, the uncertainty of what to expect can trigger feelings of anxiety.”

No matter why you experience anxiety related to travel, “It's important to recognize that travel anxiety is a common and valid experience, and there are various strategies and coping mechanisms available to help manage it,” offered Dr. Shivanand. “These may include relaxation techniques, cognitive-behavioral strategies, gradual exposure to anxiety-provoking situations, seeking support from mental health professionals, and planning ahead to minimize stressors during travel.”

​How can I control my travel anxiety ahead of my upcoming trip?

Photo by Vlada Karpovich/PEXELS


  • Plan and Prepare in Advance: “Plan your trip ahead of time to reduce uncertainty,” says Dr. Shivanand. “This includes booking accommodations, transportation, and activities in advance, as well as familiarizing yourself with the destination, and local regulations.” Having a loose agenda of things to look forward to when your trip starts is a great way to get excited when thinking about traveling, instead of stressed.
  • Practice Relaxation Techniques: “Incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation to calm and center yourself. [Yoga of Immortals] Breathwork and Advance Cognitive sessions can really help,” says Dr. Shivanand. As the founder of the Yoga of Immortals practice, he uses its principles in his everyday life and has seen how it can positively impact the lives of others from a mental health standpoint. However, any type of yoga, meditation, and other similar practices you're familiar with should help.

Image via Andrew Worung/Dupe

  • Create a Checklist: “Create a checklist of essential items to pack and tasks to complete before your trip to stay organized and minimize last-minute stressors,” shared Dr. Shivanand. “Organizing your belongings and documents can also help you feel more in control during your travels.” The simple task of crossing off packing items from a list can feel cathartic and ensure you don’t forget anything essential during your travels.
  • Stay Connected: “Maintain communication with friends or family members before, during, and after your trip,” Dr. Shivanand recommends. “Knowing that you have someone to reach out to for support or guidance can provide reassurance and alleviate feelings of isolation.” News flash, the people you care about care about you too! They’ll be happy to hear from you and walk you through any tough feelings, if need be.
  • Stay Grounded: “Practice mindfulness and grounding techniques to stay present and centered during your travels,” shared Dr. Shivanand. Embrace the ‘pinch me’ moments of your trip as they happen, this is why you’re traveling in the first place after all!

Photo by Cliff Booth/PEXELS

  • Seek Professional Support: “If travel-related anxiety significantly impacts your ability to engage in travel experiences, consider seeking support from a mental health professional,” says Dr. Shivanand. Listen; asking for help is okay, and something that you should do if it will have a positive impact on your life.
  • Incorporate Meditative & Wellness Daily: In doing so, Dr Shivanand says, "One can effectively manage travel-related anxiety and enjoy your travel experiences with greater ease and confidence.” Dr. Shivanand reiterates that “it's okay to seek support and take proactive steps to prioritize your mental well-being during your travels.”

Looking for more travel tips? Be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter so you never miss a thing!

Header image via Cora Pursley/Dupe

A Psychologist Shares 5 Ways You Can Combat The Loneliness Epidemic

Last month I chatted Amanda Montell by mentioning the glaring loneliness epidemic that's taken over lately. While we had a great conversation about overcoming our overthinking, it really got me wondering: how did we get here?

According to a study conducted by the U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, the pandemic and our increased reliance on technology seems to be the source of the collective social decline we’re experiencing. In 2022 — two years out from the 2020 lockdowns — only 39% of adults reported feeling emotionally close to others. For those of us who consider ourselves to be introverts, this may feel par for the social course — but it really isn't.

There's potential for greater health concerns here, both mentally and physically. Dr. Murthy discovered that a prolonged decline in social connection with others “...can increase your risk of heart disease by 29% and risk of stroke by 32%.” That’s no laughing matter, especially if heart disease runs in your family like it does in mine.

It’s something Eric Liu, CEO of Citizen University elaborated on during an episode of NPR’sMorning Edition podcast last year. He said, “When you are alone and disconnected, there’s more stress, there’s more inflammation, there’s more anxiety.” And while some of us prefer our own company, statistics show that's not always the healthiest choice for us in the long run.

To understand all this even more, I spoke with Licensed Perinatal Mental Health & Trauma Therapist Becca Reed, LCSW, PMH-C. Together, we broke down how we can combat the loneliness epidemic and positively affect our health at the same time. Here's what I learned!

How prevalent is the loneliness epidemic actually?

Image via Liza Summer/Pexels

I've joked with my sister that there seems to be a change in the way people interact with each other since the pandemic, but there's some truth to it. Reed says, "Since the pandemic began, I've observed a marked increase in feelings of loneliness across various age groups. What’s particularly interesting is the depth of loneliness people have expressed, even after moving back into engaging in normal activities."

Think about the last time you went to the grocery store — did it seem like some people exist in their own worlds without apparent regard for others? It could very well be a symptom of this very epidemic. "Many of my clients have reported feeling disconnected not just from others, but also from parts of themselves. The pandemic disrupted our regular social habits and created a void that many are still learning how to fill," explains Reed.

Does social media play a role in the way we perceive introversion and loneliness?

Image via Arina Krasnikova/Pexels

I can't completely shun social media because it's introduced me to different brands, people, and even my career as a journalist. However, I've also wondered if social media has a major influence on the way we think and interact with the world around us — especially in regards to introversion and loneliness. Reed believes there's more to it than that.

"Our lifestyles and societal values greatly influence how we view introversion and loneliness. For instance, highly individualistic cultures, like in the U.S., often celebrate extroversion," she says before adding, "This celebration can make quieter, introverted ways of engaging with the world seem less valuable."

This may pose an issue for those who are always busy and aren't actively interacting with others beyond a surface level. Reed says, "Additionally, our busy modern lifestyles are filled with long work hours and personal commitments. This can leave little room for deep, sustained social interactions. As a result, those who may not reach out actively can feel further isolated."

What are some signs that someone is experiencing loneliness?

Image via Ivan Samkov/Pexels

Dr. Murthy also told NPR, “Some people react to loneliness by withdrawing and getting quiet. Others react to loneliness by becoming irritable and angry, and they may lash out more” before adding “...sometimes we need somebody else to tell us, ‘Hey, you’ve been withdrawing more’ to help us understand we might actually be dealing with loneliness.”

This is something that Reed also reiterated. She says, "Signs of loneliness frequently include significant changes in mood and behavior. This might look like increased irritability, persistent sadness, or withdrawal from usual activities" while "Physically, loneliness might manifest through disrupted sleep patterns or a change in appetite."

From personal experience, I've been known to dissociate if I'm feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or upset so I'm very familiar with exacerbating any loneliness I've felt by withdrawing. This also resulted in spending a lot of days in my early 20s sleeping when I wasn't working or remaining in my room with the door locked.

"If you notice a loved one seeming unusually quiet, canceling plans more frequently, or expressing feelings of emptiness, they might be experiencing loneliness," warns Reed.

How can we combat the loneliness epidemic in our daily interactions?

Image via Pavel Danilyuk/Pexels

If you've noticed that you're being affected by the loneliness epidemic, there are different ways to combat it. Reed says, "Small daily interactions can be very impactful to combating loneliness. Simply making eye contact, sharing a smile with a stranger, or having a quick chat with a neighbor can foster a sense of connection." This sounds so Starbucks and Bookstore-coded for those of us who don't want to feel overwhelmed by anything grand.

At the same time, Reed says there are things we can do in our personal relationships to help us start feeling a sense of community again. "Reaching out regularly to friends and family through calls, messages, and face-to-face interactions is essential. Building a community around shared interests, can also help bridge the isolation gap," she shares.

Is the loneliness epidemic going to be a prolonged problem, or is it possible to turn around?

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Like other things, it can seem like the loneliness epidemic won't get any better. But, Reed wants you to have hope. "While it's possible the impact of the pandemic on social interactions could be a prolonged issue, humans are inherently driven to connect." Though she says, "The pandemic has intensified social anxieties and shifted communication habits."

This can look like people finding it difficult to interact with others the way they used to (hi social anxiety). Still, that doesn't mean we have to approach things as if there's nothing to look forward to in terms of interacting with others. Reed says, "People are finding new ways to engage with each other as we be come more aware of the impacts of loneliness and actively work towards building stronger, more resilient community networks. This adaptability is a positive sign that we're moving towards more interaction again, despite the challenges."

All we can do is turn lemons into lemonade as we continue to find new normals that support our lifestyles, communication, and connection needs.

Has the loneliness epidemic impacted you? Let us know in the comments and follow the conversation on Facebook.

Lead image via Tiana/Pexels

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Netflix’s New Kate Hudson Comedy Is Our Most-Anticipated Show Of 2025

10 Things I Hate About You and The Office fans listen up! There's a new project coming to Netflix from Kate Hudson and Mindy Kaling, and you NEED to know about it. Just like the best female-led TV shows, Running Point promises to be empowering, hilarious, and just a lot of fun. Keep reading for everything you need to know about the new TV show.

What is Running Point about?

Image via Netflix

This new TV show follows Isla Gordon (played by Kate Hudson), who becomes President of the Los Angeles Waves basketball team after a scandal means her brother has to retire. In the male-dominated world of sports, Isla will have to prove to everyone around her — her brothers, the board, and the fans — that she can balance work AND play.

When does Running Point come out?

Image via Netflix

Running Point is coming to Netflix in 2025.

Who's in the Running Point cast?

Image via Netflix

Running Point stars Kate Hudson, Brenda Song, Drew Tarver, Scott MacArthur, Fabrizio Guido, Toby Sandeman, Chet Hanks, Max Greenfield, Keyla Monterroso Mejia, Roberto Sanchez, Uche Agada, and Dane DiLiegro.

I am so excited to see another show written by Mindy Kaling, especially one that stars Brenda Song and Kate Hudson! Let us know what you're currently binge watching on Facebook.

Lead image via Netflix

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Can You Really Improve Your Relationship With A "Sleep Divorce"?

Picture it: you're waking up tired because of your partner's snoring so you're thinking about getting a "sleep divorce." You may have tried the Scandinavian Sleep Method or wearing earplugs to help you get cozier, but it's possible they didn't really help. Plus, if you've never slept separately from them, it can feel daunting to broach the topic let alone talk about the benefits of it. Take it from me, a conversation is necessary if you're dealing with sleep deprivation and find yourself being resentful towards your S.O.

There was a time I used to believe that it was cute to fall asleep holding my partner, but now I'm well aware that uninterrupted rest at night can lead to irritation that's not fair to anyone. Because there's several reasons why a "sleep divorce" may be necessary, I spoke with licensed clinical sleep psychologist Dr. Shelby Harris, the Director of Sleep Health at Sleepopolis, to explain what it is, why it's so popular, and how it may benefit couples long-term.

What is a sleep divorce and why do you feel it's gained traction recently?

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If you're wondering if a "sleep divorce" means you went to bed, woke up, and decided to get divorced, I'm here to let you know it's not as drastic. Dr. Harris says, "A sleep divorce is when couples decide to sleep in separate beds or rooms because of sleep disturbances from differing sleep schedules or comfort preferences." So if you're not a fan of your partner's snoring and you're been losing sleep over it, this could lead to a "sleep divorce."

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, one-third of people report sleeping somewhere differently than their partner. This is "...fueled by a growing awareness of how important getting good sleep is for health and relationships, changing attitudes toward relationships that prioritize autonomy, and advancements in sleep technology that make separate sleeping arrangements possible and more comfortable," continues Dr. Harris.

What are some signs that a couple should consider getting a sleep divorce?

Image via Alex Green/Pexels

No matter who you and your S.O. are, it's likely you have differing needs. I'm not telling you to prioritize your autonomy over your partner's, but it does help to have a conversation about losing sleep if that poses an issue. And as it turns out, you're not the only person who may be experiencing sleep issues.

Experts at eachnight discovered the top three states where couples have sleep struggles are New York, Massachusetts, and Maryland. They also discovered that 'insomnia' and 'sleep apnea' are the top two highest searched queries on Google.

Dr. Harris says, "If you're constantly waking up because of your partner's snoring or tossing and turning, feeling frustrated or exhausted from lack of sleep, or if you both have different sleep preferences, like mattress firmness or room temperature, it might be worth considering separate sleeping arrangements. It could help ease tensions and improve both of your sleep quality, benefiting your relationship in the long run."

How can couples benefit from a sleep divorce if they choose to pursue it?

Image via Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels

Admittedly, this is a question I've had for a while. Though I've made the decision to sleep in a separate room than my S.O., some people may feel uneasy taking that route. The good news is that Dr. Harris lists reasons why this can be beneficial for couples in the long run.

"A sleep divorce can benefit couples by giving each partner better sleep without disruptions, reducing any resentment that might arise from sleep issues, and improving intimacy since both partners are more rested and happier overall," she says. I know I wasn't a fan of how cranky I was in the morning so I personally swear by getting a "sleep divorce." It's been nice to actually get 8 hours of sleep without feeling sluggish by a certain time.

In Dr. Harris' opinion, "It's like hitting the reset button on sleep and relationships, helping them to understand and respect each other's needs while getting the best rest possible."

Do you believe couples are starting to find nontraditional avenues for successful relationships?

Image via Ketut Subiyanto/Pexels

Seeing how popular getting a "sleep divorce" has become, I wondered if couples sought creative solutions more today than they have previously.

Dr. Harris says, "Couples are discovering new ways to make their relationships work, even if they don't follow the traditional scripts we've seen in media and society. Whether it's through sleep divorces, open relationships, or challenging gender roles, people are realizing that what matters most is their own happiness and fulfillment."

Do you think a "sleep divorce" is right for your relationship? Share your thoughts on Facebook!

Lead image via Ketut Subiyanto/Pexels

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30 Memorial Day Sales You Need To Shop For Insane Savings

Memorial Day weekend is nigh, and in the midst of planning your epic BBQ spread and a slew of themed cocktails, it's also time to start noting the Memorial Day sales you'll be shopping for a much-needed summer refresh. We've got the scoop on savings in just about every category – from beauty to home decor to fashion – so you know exactly when and where to save big.

Scroll on for the Memorial Day sales we're most excited about for 2024, and make sure to come back here for additional sale info!

Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum

Target

What: Items up to 60% off

When: May 24-27

KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer

Amazon

What: Deals on everything from home goods to decor

When: Now through Memorial Day

Naturepedic

  • 20% Off Sitewide with code MEMORIAL20
  • May 15-29

Casper

  • Up to 30% off everything
  • May 8-June 4

Purple Mattress

Mila Mirror

Anthropologie Home

What: Savings on home goods

When: May 21-27

Peony Vase Thank You Card Set

Papier

What: 15% off stationery & photo books

When: May 22-29

Sherpa Deluxe Black Guarenteed On Board Soft Sided Dog & Cat Carrier

Petco

What: BOGO 50% off select summer products and 20% off select sherpa carriersWhen: May 24-27

Dallas IV Hat

Hood

What: 25% off sitewide with code USA25

When: May 23-27

CZ Crescent with Stars Necklace

Sterling Forever

What: 20% off sitewide with code SUMMER20

When: May 24-28

Stemless Wine Chiller Pair

VoChill

What: 20% off sitewide

When: May 17-27

The Coated Pan

Material Kitchen

What: 20% off (*promo excludes bundles and collaborations)

When: May 23-27

EOS Classic Organic Mattress

Naturepedic

What: 20% off sitewide with code MEMORIAL20

When: May 15-29

Pierrette Dress

SAYLOR

What: Extra 15% off sale styles with code MDAY24

When: May 27

Sea Green Pleated Tennis Skirt

Gold Hinge

What: 25% off sitewide with code MDAY25

When: May 23-27

Calista FAUXblo Thermal Blowout Brush

Calista

What: 20% off sitewide

When: May 24

CAROL Bike

CAROL Bike

What: Take $200 off sitewide on all CAROL bikes

When: May 24-30

Cartolina Louise Cover-Up

Cartolina

What: 30% off sitewide

When: May 22-28

Carve Designs Zella Mesh Pullover

Carve Designs

What: BOGO red, white, and blue swim; buy 1 swimsuit, get one swimsuit 50% off

When: May 23-27

Essentia Stratami Organic Mattress

Essentia

What: 25% off sitewide, plus receive free GOTS Certified Organic Cotton Sheets with qualifying mattress purchases

When: May 13-31

Harper Wilde Bliss Scoop Bralette

Harper Wilde

What: 20% off sitewide

When: May 24-27

MARLOWE. Soap Bar Discovery Gift Set

MARLOWE.

What: 20% off sitewide

When: May 27

Pura 4 Diffuser

Pura

What: 25% off sitewide through code only (subscriber early access: May 23-27), 25% off sitewide, plus subscribe to the Pura V4 and get a free car set

When: May 21-22

Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30

Vacation

What: 20% off sitewide, plus get a free boat keychain or pen on orders over $65 (while supplies last)

When: May 24-27

Custom Pet Portrait Phone Case

West & Willow

What: 20% off sitewide with code MDAY

When: May 20-28

Olsen Leather Lounge Chair

Industry West

What: 20% off sitewide with code Memorial20

When: May 21-31

Claira Dress

Hutch

What: Additional 35% off all final sale styles. (No returns or exchanges with discounts automatically applied at checkout.)

When: May 23-27

3 Seat Chaise Couch in Coconut

Homebody

What: 15% off sitewide with code HONOR

When: May 16-27

Blush & Bronze Hydro-Blur Cheek Duo

Stila Cosmetics

What: 20% off orders $0 to $49 with code MDAY20, 25% off orders $50 to $99 with code MDAY25, 30% off orders of $100+ with code MDAY30

When: May 27

Tree Flyer 2

Allbirds

What: 20% off select styles online

When: May 13-20

Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on these Memorial Day sales + all the best deals!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

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What To Watch After You Finish "Bridgerton"

Just like fantasy stories can transport us to new worlds, period dramas are one way to get a whole new (er, old) glimpse of the world you wouldn't see otherwise. Just like contemporary films, period dramas have their fair share of relationship drama and scandal, with some amazing outfits to boot. After you've watched (and rewatched) season 3 of Bridgerton, add one — or better yet, all — of these picks to your watchlist! Once you've figured out what you're pressing play on first, read up on why The Bridgerton Cast Is “Obsessed” With Claudia Jessie.

Atonement — Stream on Prime Video

Image via Universal Pictures

Every time I talk to my team here at Brit + Co about their favorite period dramas, Atonement always makes the list. And for good reason! It's an emotional, sweeping piece that feels like different genres as it moves from family drama to romance to a war epic. The cast includes names like Saoirse Ronan, James McAvoy, and Keira Knightley.

Little Women — Stream on Hulu

Image via Sony Pictures

Everyone can love this story, even if you don't have sisters — although being a sister has definitely made me love it even more. There are two versions I recommend: the 1994 version with Winona Ryder, Christian Bale, and Kirsten Dunst, or Greta Gerwig's 2019 version with Saoirse Ronan, Timothée Chalamet, and Emma Watson.

In my opinion, Greta's version is a little bit more thought-provoking for the viewer, but between both film's arcs, I prefer the 1994 film's linear structure. You can't go wrong with either movie, so why not watch both?

Emily — Stream on Paramount+ With Showtime

Image via Bleecker Street

My Letterboxd review after seeing Emily in theaters basically called this family the English, more tragic version of Little Women's March sisters. The celebration of creativity and identity feel even more powerful against the darker aesthetic and all of the painful experiences Emily Brontë lives through. Plus, it has one of the most emotional scores of 2023 that I've had on repeat ever since I watched it!

Mr. Malcolm's List — Stream on Paramount+ With Showtime

Image via Bleecker Street

When Julia Thistlewaite gets rejected by London's most eligible bachelor (the titular Mr. Malcolm), she decides to turn her friend into his ideal match, and get a little bit of revenge while she's at it. Anyone who loves Bridgerton's costumes (and Princess Diana's revenge dress) is gonna want to add this to their queue.

Pride & Prejudice — Rent on Amazon Prime

Image via Focus Features

Avid fans of Jane Austen's book (including yours truly) will likely give you two recommendations that each have their own viral scene: Colin Firth's lake diving in the 1995 BBC mini series or Matthew MacFadyen's hand flex after helping Keira Knightley into a carriage in the 2005 film. All jokes aside, both titles are wonderful celebrations of the story!

Belle — Stream on Max

Image via Searchlight Pictures

In this political, historical romance, Belle is the illegitimate, biracial daughter of a British admiral who's raised by her uncle. As she grows up alongside her cousin, Belle questions her identity as she realizes she belongs with neither the servants nor the family. And when she meets John, she becomes in integral part of the abolitionist movement in England.

Downton Abbey — Stream on Peacock

Image via PBS/NBC

If you love period pieces but prefer a slower pace, I'd recommend Downton Abbey. The stakes are high and some viewers still haven't gotten over the death of their favorite character (I'm talking about myself here), but I don't think it's as overstimulating as a lot of other dramas involving war, death, and relationships. Plus you literally CANNOT go wrong with Maggie Smith as the Dowager Countess. The studio just announced a third movie, so now is the perfect time to start the series!

Becoming Jane — Rent on Amazon Prime

Image via Disney/Miramax

James McAvoy makes the list again with this semi-biographical film on Jane Austen's life. One of the best parts of any historical drama is when the main couple dances at a ball, and Becoming Jane has one of my favorite dances of all time. Fans of the author criticized the film when it came out, but if you go into it with an open mind, it's very enjoyable (and might just make you cry, too).

Marie Antoinette — Stream on Max

Image via Columbia Pictures

I finally watched Sofia Coppola's iconic film for the first time, and it was as much a feast for the eyes as I'd hoped. Kirsten Dunst stuns as the infamous queen, and in addition to the textured, maximalist visuals, the story did make me think about Marie Antoinette in a new way. Considering I've been obsessed with her since middle school, that's saying something!

Emma — Stream on Prime Video

Image via Focus Features

If you love the visuals in Marie Antoinette, then I'm pretty sure you'll love this 2020 Jane Austen retelling. Every detail of the movie feels like its own piece of art (even the physical blocking and movements of the actors feels like a dance), and they all come together to create something cohesive, beautiful, and fun. You can also go for Gwyneth Paltrow's 1996 version or Clueless, which was inspired by Austen's book.

Sense and Sensibility — Rent on Amazon Prime

Image via Columbia Pictures

With names like Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, and Hugh Grant, this movie has always felt wildly underrated, so consider this my official plea asking you to watch it. It's got everything: Family! Drama! True love! Taylor Swift also said during her Tribeca Film Festival talk in 2022 that it inspired her album Evermore, so there's that.

Why Didn't They Ask Evans? — Stream on BritBox

Image via BritBox

I love this miniseries so much that I watch it every year. At this point, it's a tradition! Lucy Boynton and Will Poulter are so fun together, and their banter will leave rom-com lovers giggling and kicking their feet. Plus the 1930s fashions are just SO good.

Let us know what your favorite period dramas are in the comments, and check out the 2024 Movies you can look forward to this year!

Lead image via Sony Pictures

This post has been updated.

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