Around 25 million Americans have some anxiety when it comes to flying, and as much as 40% of the population has some fear of flying (and around 5% of these have a fear that they won’t actually fly).
Feeling nervous about air travel is a natural response, but it’s also something you can manage. By taking steps to make your flight as comfortable as possible, you can effectively ward off any anxiety and ensure your flight is as enjoyable as possible. Remember, your comfort is the goal.
These tips are here to guide you and ensure your next flight is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. We’re here to support you in your journey towards a stress-free flight.
Key Takeaways
- Flying can be a daunting experience for many, but with a few thoughtful preparations, you can turn it into a more comfortable and even enjoyable journey
- From dressing in cozy clothing to staying hydrated and entertained, these simple steps can help ease your nerves and enhance your in-flight experience
Dress for Comfort
You’ve likely seen many lists online about what to wear and what not to wear for your flight. However, the best course of action is to wear loose, stretchy clothing that is comfortable for you.
This might be a pair of yoga pants for you or light loose joggers and a loose shirt. It can be linen clothing, a stretchy dress, or slip-on shoes that don’t restrict your feet. A slip-on sweater or cardigan can be a good idea so you can adjust to differing temperatures over a heavy coat, which is also a good idea.
Preparing for Altitude Changes
The change in air pressure can be extremely uncomfortable or even painful for some people as it affects the ears. Airplane ear relates to the popping, tinnitus, or temporary hearing loss many people experience when flying, and it can happen during takeoff and landing and be really uncomfortable.
Chewing gum frequently swallowing, “popping your ears,” or sucking on hard sweets can help you alleviate “airplane ear,” as well as knowing the impact of air travel and hearing if you have hearing loss, ear conditions, or you wear hearing aids at the make this a less disruptive experience.
Pack Essentials
Packing flight essentials is a great way to ensure that you can fly in comfort. Essentials can include anything from an eye mask and neck pillow to help you sleep to a blanket, cushion, earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, thick socks, or toiletries to freshen up during your flight.
It’s the small details that will make the difference between an uncomfortable flight and one that helps you relax and enjoy your time in the air.
Stay Hydrated
It’s often recommended that you avoid caffeine and alcohol when flying as they can dehydrate you. However, limiting rather than eliminating these can be a good compromise. Ensure you’re drinking plenty of water prior to and during your flight, especially for long-haul flights, to help you stay hydrated during your flight. You can go one step further and consume beverages with added electrolytes for optimal hydration and support.
Stay Entertained
Flights can be boring, especially if you’re packed amongst strangers and have no means of escape for multiple hours. You can increase your comfort and enjoyment by taking along some forms of entertainment. This can mean downloading movies or box sets to your cell phone or other devices.
You can read a book, listen to music or podcasts, or even play games or do some crossword puzzles such crosswords. Taking something to keep you occupied will help time pass faster and give you something to focus on for the duration of the flight.
Final Word
Flying can be a daunting experience for many, but with a few thoughtful preparations, you can turn it into a more comfortable and even enjoyable journey. From dressing in cozy clothing to staying hydrated and entertained, these simple steps can help ease your nerves and enhance your in-flight experience. Remember, it’s all about making yourself comfortable and managing any anxiety you may have. With the right approach, you’ll be ready to take to the skies with confidence. Safe travels!
