I fly over 100,000 miles each year and have done for many years. Of course, I have lots of tips and tricks I use when I fly. Here are some of my personal secrets…
- WEAR COMFORTABLE CLOTHES – loose-fitting, comfortable clothes are best for long flights. A lightweight hoodie is a good idea as planes can get cold with the AC, especially overnight flights. I always recommend a light scarf or wrap which can be used as an extra pillow/eye-cover/warm layer. Also good for emergencies in case of accidental spills!
- FLIGHT ESSENTIALS – these can help with making your flight a little more comfortable:
- EYE MASK – Shutting out lights -it’s scientifically proven that people sleep better in total darkness.
- HEADPHONES – for watching movies, listening to music, shutting out crying babies etc. Highly recommend NOISE-CANCELLATION headphones (charge them or bring batteries!). My personal favorites are BOSE QUIET COMFORT (I have had mine for over 17 years – great investment!)
- EAR PLUGS – as above, to shut out noise when sleeping
- MOISTURIZER (travel size) + CHAPSTICK – because it gets dry on the plane.
- SNACKS – not too salty to prevent dehydration.
- WATER BOTTLE – collapsible silicone styles are best as they fold up for storage and are refillable
- TRAVEL TOOTHBRUSH AND TOOTHPASTE – it’s nice for an overnight flight 🙂
- ESSENTIAL OIL – I like a little dab of lavender to calm and help with sleep
- TRAVEL SIZE FACE WASH – nice for freshening up on overnight flightsHYDRATE
The air on planes and at high elevations is very dry so it is easy to become dehydrated. I recommend drinking a lot of water before and during the flight.
It’s best to avoid alcohol and soda on overnight and long flights.
4. SLEEPING AIDS
You may want to talk to your doctor about getting a sleep aid for the overnight flight, or if you are an anxious traveler. For a more restful sleep, melatonin or a couple of Tylenol PM can help. Alcohol usually disturbs sleep so it’s best to avoid drinking in excess. PLEASE NOTE – THIS IS NOT MEDICAL ADVICE AND SHOULD NOT BE TAKEN AS SUCH! CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR!
5. IPAD/KINDLE/GAMES ETC
I always bring my iPad with Netflix already downloaded and ready to watch. If you like to read, download some books before you travel. There are movies and entertainment on the flights but I always like to bring my own too. For kids, games are a good idea – and always make sure you have charging cables. Most of the long haul flights have USB chargers or plug sockets for each seat.
6. AIRPLANE MODE
Make sure to put your phone and devices into airplane mode! You don’t want to arrive with no battery charge left!
7. EXTRA CLOTHES – It’s always a good idea to carry some clean underwear, socks and a light change of clothes. Sometimes luggage is delayed; sometimes you just want to feel fresh after a long flight!
7. TIME ZONE
The moment you land, set your watch to the time zone. Base your schedule in the plane off of that. For example, if it is daytime in that location you are traveling to, try to stay awake until it is bedtime in that location. This will help you adapt to the local time faster.
Safe travels! – Claire
