Flying can be an exhilarating, joyous, or tedious experience, depending on how you look at it. What’s undeniable, is that it can also be a source of stress even for the most zen travellers among us.
From navigating busy airports to enduring long hours in the air, the journey can sometimes feel overwhelming. Fortunately, seasoned flight attendants have a wealth of knowledge on how to make your flight as smooth and stress-free as possible. Here are some top tips to help you enjoy a more relaxed and enjoyable journey.
Pre-Flight Rituals: The Secret To A Smooth Start
Before even stepping foot in the airport, establish a pre-flight ritual. This could include a calming activity like yoga or meditation to centre yourself. Some flight attendants swear by a specific playlist or podcast that helps them get into a relaxed mindset. Consider downloading a guided meditation app like Headspace or Calm to use during your journey.
The Power Of Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy can be a game-changer for reducing travel stress. Essential oils like lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus can help calm nerves and alleviate headaches. Bring a small rollerball of your favourite essential oil blend and apply it to your wrists and temples. Some flight attendants even recommend using a portable diffuser with a USB connection to create a calming atmosphere at your seat.
Strategic Seat Selection
Beyond just choosing a window or aisle seat, consider the specific layout of the aircraft. Websites like SeatGuru provide detailed maps of different planes, highlighting the best and worst seats. Look for seats with extra legroom, those that recline fully, or those located in quieter sections of the plane. If you’re sensitive to noise, avoid seats near the galley or lavatories.
In-Flight Hydration Hacks
Staying hydrated is crucial, but it can be challenging with limited water service. Bring a collapsible water bottle and ask the flight attendants to fill it up for you. Additionally, consider bringing electrolyte tablets or sachets to add to your water. These can help maintain your hydration levels more effectively than water alone.
DIY Comfort Kit
Create your own in-flight comfort kit tailored to your needs. Include items like a high-quality neck pillow, a soft blanket, compression socks, and an eye mask. Some flight attendants recommend bringing a small, inflatable footrest to improve circulation and comfort during long flights. Don’t forget noise-cancelling headphones and a sleep mask to block out light and noise.
Healthy Snacks With A Twist
Instead of relying on standard snacks, pack a variety of nutrient-dense options that can help keep your energy levels stable. Consider bringing a mix of protein bars, dried fruits, nuts, and even dark chocolate. Some flight attendants suggest packing a small container of chia seeds; you can add them to water or juice for a quick, hydrating snack.
Tech-Savvy Travel
Make the most of technology to streamline your travel experience. Download your airline’s app for real-time updates on your flight status, gate changes, and boarding times. Use apps like TripIt to organise your travel itinerary, and consider investing in a portable charger to keep your devices powered throughout your journey.
Some flight attendants also recommend noise-cancelling apps like myNoise to create a personalised sound environment.
Mindful Movement
Sitting for long periods can lead to discomfort and stiffness. Incorporate simple stretches and exercises into your flight routine. Some flight attendants suggest practising seated yoga poses or using a resistance band for light stretching. If possible, take regular walks up and down the aisle to keep your blood flowing and prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Personalised Entertainment
While in-flight entertainment systems are convenient, they may not always have what you want. Curate your own entertainment by downloading a mix of movies, TV shows, podcasts, and audiobooks. Some flight attendants recommend bringing a lightweight e-reader loaded with your favourite books. If you’re a fan of puzzles, consider downloading a few brain-teasing apps to keep your mind engaged.
Engage With The Crew
Flight attendants are there to ensure your comfort and safety, and they often have insider tips to enhance your flight experience. Don’t hesitate to engage with them politely and ask for recommendations or assistance.
Whether it’s a special request for a drink, advice on the best time to visit the lavatory, or even a chat to pass the time, building a rapport with the crew can make your journey more pleasant. In some circumstances, it might even earn you an upgrade.
Deal With Delays Calmly & Know Your Rights
Flight delays are an unfortunate reality of air travel, but being prepared can help mitigate the stress. Always have a backup plan, such as knowing the location of airport lounges where you can relax if your flight is delayed. Keep a small kit with essentials like snacks, a book, and a portable charger to keep you occupied. Importantly, be aware of your rights regarding compensation.
Passengers’ rights in UK are well protected. In case your flight is delayed for more than three hours or cancelled, you can claim compensation from the airline, as long as the circumstances are not extraordinary, such as extreme weather conditions. Knowing you have options can provide peace of mind and reduce anxiety during unexpected delays.
When you approach it like this, it’s pretty easy to transform your flying experience into a more enjoyable and stress-free adventure. Now, when’s take-off?
Next up, let’s ensure those flights are as cheap as they can possibly be. Chance would be a fine thing, hey?