Sitting for hours in an airplane cabin can be taxing, but there are ways to deal with any potential discomfort. Staying hydrated is important as airplane air is typically very dry. Drinking plenty of water and limiting your alcohol and caffeine intake is recommended to stay hydrated during flights. Also try stretching your legs and moving them around periodically by doing ankle rotations or quick walks to the lavatory to ease your stiffness issues. For those that are sensitive to altitude changes, chewing gum during takeoff and landing can help maintain the balance within your ears during those times.
Before Your Flight Leaves the Ground
Preparations and Planning
To make sure that you have an enjoyable travel experience from start to finish, proper preparation and planning is very important. Booking your flights early not only secures you better prices but also gives you better selection in seats and flight times. It’s a good idea to compare options available through different booking platforms before double-checking airline policies regarding baggage allowances, cancellations and check-in procedures. Also keep an eye out for visa requirements as some international destinations require that passports have at least six months validity beyond the date of entry otherwise you could find yourself stuck at the check-in desk.
Pack Like a Pro
Packing like a pro is truly an art, and its mastery can prevent many travel woes. Create a list of important items to prevent overpacking or underpacking. In cabin luggage, adhere to TSA or local aviation authority restrictions when packing liquids. Roll your clothes instead of folding them to reduce space-wasting while also avoiding creasing them more easily. Make sure that chargers and adapters are readily available and keep medications or documents at hand in your carry-on bag. This will help that the boarding queues won’t delay proceedings when you are looking through your luggage for your passports.
Booking Airport Parking
Reserving airport parking in advance can save you time and stress on your travel day. Sites like Parking Up offer convenient online booking systems that enable travelers to select the most convenient short-term, long-term, or premium spaces near terminals. Make sure to secure your spot early to take advantage of discounted rates as well as avoid full lots. Plus some services offer shuttle buses directly from parking to the terminal for added convenience.
Airport Savvy
Arriving early can save you a great deal of stress at the airport. For domestic flights it’s generally recommended to arrive two hours in advance and three for international departures, though always double-check the individual airline guidelines. Check-in online quickly or download and print your boarding pass from your phone to avoid queues. Be prepared for security checks by wearing shoes that can easily be removed, not wearing heavy accessories that might trigger metal detectors, and keeping laptops and liquids easily accessible. Remembering than even being a tiny bit prepared can save you a lot of distress.
During the Flight
Settling Into Your Seat
To make sure that you have an effortless boarding process, it is important to select the best seat in advance for your needs. Whether it’s a window seat to look outside a scenic flight or aisle seat that gives you better movement, making a good decision can make all the difference in your comfort level on long flights. When you arrive on board, place your carry-on quickly (but carefully), while making sure others have space for their belongings too. For longer flights, pack an inflatable pillow, eye mask and noise cancelling headphones (airlines often provide basic blankets and headsets). These extra items could make all the difference for those that are looking for comfort and quality on long haul flights.
Staying Healthy and Comfy
Sitting for hours in an airplane cabin can be taxing, but there are ways to deal with any potential discomfort. Staying hydrated is important as airplane air is typically very dry. Drinking plenty of water and limiting your alcohol and caffeine intake is recommended to stay hydrated during flights. Also try stretching your legs and moving them around periodically by doing ankle rotations or quick walks to the lavatory to ease your stiffness issues. For those that are sensitive to altitude changes, chewing gum during takeoff and landing can help maintain the balance within your ears during those times.
Making the Most of a Flight
Flights give you an ideal opportunity for productivity or relaxation, depending on your mood. Bring along a book, download a podcast or enjoy one of the in-flight entertainment options. Or take advantage of Wi-Fi access provided by many airlines to stay connected while in flight. Business travellers could use the time wisely by fine-tuning their presentations or responding to emails while others might prefer using the time to catch up with sleep or just completely shutting off in preparation for their arrival. Noise-cancelling headphones will allow you to stay focused or relaxing when needed, it’s the perfect way to use the time either way.
After the Flight: What's Next?
Going Through the Arrival Process
The arrival process can often be the most trying part of international air travel, but by staying calm and organised it becomes much less frustrating. Follow the signs to passport control with your travel documents in hand. Those without anything to declare may use the “green lane.” For luggage collection purposes, head to the correct carousel before collecting your bag. This way you won’t risk walking off with someone else’s suitcase during the chaos of arrivals.
Adjusting to Time Zones
Jet lag can be an unpleasant side effect of long-haul travel, so to mitigate its effects start making adjustments a few days prior by aligning your meals and bedtimes with those of your destination. Upon arrival avoid long naps if possible in favor of shorter power naps. Sunlight exposure also works to reset internal clocks more easily.
Conclusion
Travelling with an airline doesn’t need to be stressful. With some careful preparation before, during, and when your flight lands, even long flights can become enjoyable experiences. By listening to podcasts, eating some snacks during your flight, being adaptable and maintaining the right attitude at all times during the sky journey, you will be able to make any type of flight an enjoyable part of your travel. The important thing is to be flexible while always remaining in good spirits, as adaptability is the secret ingredient.
