The more you travel, the more you will start to develop your own routine for air travel, but, for now, here are some tried and true tips for having a stress free flight!
1. Get Some Space
Want extra legroom? Request an emergency exit row. Just remember that if you are in an emergency exit row, you must store all of your bags in the overhead bin, so you won’t be able to access your things during takeoff or landing.
Note: Some airlines charge for that “extra legroom”.
2. Food Requests
Do you have meal preferences? If your seat is near the back of the plane, chances are they will run out of the least questionable looking meal. Solve this by stating a dietary restriction when you book (such as “no seafood”). This will save you from that meal.
3. Make sure you are wearing something comfortable
This may sound obvious, but that’s not the first thought that runs through your mind when choosing your outfit on the day of travel. Comfort is key! Be sure to have an easily handy coat or sweatshirt on hand, too. No matter the season, planes tend to get pretty chilly.
4. Pack an extra shirt
Besides being comfortable, it’s also important to stay fresh. Pack a change of clothes or an extra shirt in your carry-on bag. For those long haul flights, it can make a world of difference to change. Stay fresh!
5. Bring a little bag of toiletries
12 hours without brushing your teeth? Gross. It’ll also give you a chance to freshen up before you land. You’ll feel much better when you arrive at your destination.
6. Bring slipper socks
Take off your shoes and change into clean slipper socks – the ones with traction. And no matter how uncomfortable you are, don’t put your feet on the chair in front of you.
7. Leave some extra time
There is nothing fast about an airport, so mentally prepare yourself for the wait; wait to check-in, wait to go through security, wait at your gate, need I go on? Maximize your time and bring a book or download some podcasts for the inevitable wait. Try to arrive at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight.
8. Understand the airport system
Before you leave for the airport, research the estimated time for getting through security, if there are any carry-on restrictions, and whether or not you need to take out electronics. Things will go more smoothly not only for you, but for everyone around you. Even better, sign up for TSA Precheck. This will ensure you aren’t waiting in a long security line and make sure you don’t need to take off your shoes or remove your electronics from your bag.
9. Have a drink before the flight
Make this drink a nourishing smoothie or just a bottle of water as flying is so harsh on the skin. Coconut water is another good option.
10. Treat yourself to a drink on the flight
Limit yourself to just one or two though – a flight attendant once told me “one on the ground is worth five in the sky”. In other words, you’ll feel the effect.
BONUS
11. Keep an eye out for rows of empty seats at the back of the plane
It certainly doesn’t happen often, but when good fortune smiles, take that empty row and have a good nap.
Whatever you choose to do, travel safe!
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