The Best Tips for Flying Comfortably

TIPS FOR TRAVELING COMFORTABLY

Touching down in a new destination is always exciting for me – unfortunately though, the process of actually getting there often isn’t. Sitting in a seat for any number of hours can leave me feeling tired, achy and irritated. If you’re looking for tips on how to survive your next long flight, you’re in luck.

Below you’ll find some of my best tips for flying in comfort.

Dress for Success

The vital first step to flying happy is comfort. Let’s face it, planes are not the most comfortable places on earth. Be sure to dress in layers that are easy to remove like a zip up hooded sweatshirt or jacket. This will make peeling off a layer of clothing quick and easy.

Don’t forget to wear sensible footwear – sorry ladies, leave those heels to Victoria Beckham up in first class.

Purchase Extra Leg Room If Necessary

Sore legs are a traveler’s nightmare, but you should get them from climbing up a mountain, not from your flight.

Many airlines offer extra legroom seats on their aircraft but usually at a premium price of $40 or more. If you’re tall or just enjoy a little extra leg room, pay up and get comfortable. Your knees will thank you for it once you reach your destination.

Pack It Away

You’re allowed to take a ‘personal item’ as well as one piece of carry-on luggage on most flights. Although, you’ll feel much less stressed if you bring either a personal item or a carry-on. Just one small bag containing the things you really need will maximize your personal space.

Don’t Forget to Reserve Your Seats

Traveling with friends will naturally make your flight more pleasant, but if you don’t select your seats prior to take off you could find yourself sitting with strangers. Be sure to reserve your seats online prior to your flight so you can make sure you’ll be sitting beside people that you won’t mind sharing your space with.

Beat the Boredom

Not all airplane seats are fitted with in-flight entertainment screens, so don’t count on TV, movies, or games to help you pass the time. Unless you’re flying JetBlue, that is!

Invest in a new book for your journey, or pick yourself up a tablet before your next flight. Load it up with some tv shows, movies, games and music and sit back and watch those long flight hours disappear.

Don’t Fly Hungry

Once you’re up in the air, you can’t jump up and purchase a snack when your stomach starts to grumble. If you’re on a long haul international flight, find out if you have the option to order your in-flight meal prior to your flight.

Note: This is something that you can usually take care of ahead of time when booking your flight online.

If you’re looking for a healthy snack to bring along with you on your next flight, toss an apple, orange, or granola bar in your carry-on.

Move Your Muscles

Deep-Vein Thrombosis is a real health threat to passengers, particularly on longer flights, so take every opportunity that you can to stretch and move your limbs. You can do some exercises in your seat but if your flight is over three hours, do yourself a favor and walk around at least once every hour or so.

Keep Hydrated

Compressed cabin air can raise havoc on your skin. Apply a rich face cream or body moisturizer before take off.

Don’t forget to drink plenty of water while you’re in the air. This will not only save you from those dreaded muscle cramps, but you’ll also feel a lot more energized by the time you land.

Sleep It Off

The ultimate way to arrive is feeling refreshed, revitalized and well-rested. The reality however, is that getting a good sleep on an airplane can be as tough as flying the plane itself. With a little preparation you can at least catch a few Zzz’s.

Tip: Invest in a good neck pillow, an eye mask and earplugs to help you zone out on your next flight.

Do you have your own tips for flying? If so, be sure to share them with us by leaving a comment below!