Pre-vacation excitement can quickly dissipate when you’re staring down the barrel of a long, cramped flight in *Gasp!* the middle seat! But fear not. With just a little planning you can board your next flight in comfort and arrive at your destination feeling rejuvenated and ready to explore your pants off!
Here are my top 10 tips for a comfortable flight:
1. Choose the Right Seat
Selecting the right seat can make a world of difference when it comes to enjoying a comfortable flight. If you prioritize legroom, (or, like me, you’re a nervous pee-er) consider booking an aisle or exit row seat so you can stand up and stretch whenever you want. If you're a light sleeper, maybe opt for a window seat away from the bathrooms.
2. Dress Comfortably
The airport is absolutely not the place to dress to impress. Comfort should be your top priority. Opt for loose-fitting, breathable clothing made from soft fabrics. Layers are key, as cabin temperatures can fluctuate throughout the flight. You might like to bring along cozy socks and a lightweight blanket or scarf for added warmth. Also consider your footwear, you’ll want something you can easily slip on to head to the bathroom.
3. Stay Hydrated
Aeroplane cabins have low humidity levels, which leads to dehydration, especially during a long-haul flight. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your flight. I always take a reusable water bottle to refill after passing through security, flight attendants will be more than happy to refill it for you too. I like to pack some electrolyte tablets in my carry-on to replenish my hydration levels. It’s also a good idea to take a small tub of moisturiser to keep your skin looking and feeling fresh. I like to place some of my usual products into travel size containers and place it in my hand luggage for easy access.
4. Pack Snacks
While airlines often provide meals and snacks, having your own stash of treats ensures you won't go hungry between meals or during long layovers. Opt for nutritious, energy-boosting snacks like nuts, dried fruit, granola bars, and crackers. Avoid overly salty or sugary snacks that can leave you feeling bloated or sluggish. And remember to shop for your snacks at a local grocery store BEFORE you leave. Airports will rob you blind!
5. Move Around
Flying and stiffness go hand in hand. Combat this by stretching before and after your flight and by taking regular breaks to stretch your legs and move around the cabin. Stretching out your calf muscles and rising up onto the balls of your feet are excellent for avoiding blood clots. You may also want to invest in a pair of compression stockings. Doing a few yoga stretches during a layover also works wonders.
6. Invest in Comfort
Investing in comfort items like a neck pillow, eye mask, and noise-cancelling headphones can make all the difference to your inflight experience. A supportive neck pillow can help you get some rest, while an eye mask and noise-cancelling headphones can create a peaceful environment and help you drift into a snooze.
7. Plan Your Entertainment
Bring along plenty of entertainment options to keep yourself occupied during the flight. Load up your smartphone, tablet, or e-reader with movies, TV shows, books, podcasts and games to pass the time. A colouring book can be a great way to practice some mindfulness during your flight.
8. Practice Relaxation Techniques
Flying can be stressful for some people, especially those with a fear of flying or anxiety about travel. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or visualization to help calm your nerves and promote a sense of well-being during the flight. You can find guided meditations on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
9. Maintain Personal Hygiene
Staying fresh and clean can help you feel more comfortable throughout your journey. Pack travel-sized toiletries such as hand sanitizer, facial wipes, and moisturizer to freshen up during the flight. Don't forget to brush your teeth and use mouthwash to keep your breath feeling fresh. For long-haul flights, a change of underwear and deodorant/travel size perfume is a must too!
10. Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol
I know this one is a bit boring and hard to resist, especially if the drinks are included in your airfare. But trust me, you will feel 10 times better if you avoid caffeine and alcohol before and during your flight. Both substances will dehydrate you further and can affect your sleep patterns. However, a cheeky coffee one or two hours before landing may be a good idea before you try to navigate a new city!
Hopefully these ten tips for a more comfortable flight will transform your next long-haul from a dreaded experience into a comfortable adventure. Whether you're travelling for business or pleasure, prioritizing comfort and well-being will help ensure you arrive at your destination feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Safe Travels!
