Tips For Flying Comfortably

While you may not be able to control the weather, the aircraft maintenance schedule, or whatever other hang-ups are out there, you can control your personal in-flight comfort level when traveling. There are some super simple ways to maximize your relaxation and personal wellness. Take some of these tips to heart and you’re on your way to a better flight.

Eat Respectfully

Nourishment is an absolutely vital element of travel, so remember to keep your belly full … but be judicious. Remember, you’ll be in a confined space with many other people for more than a little bit; the gigantic, greasy breakfast burrito with extra beans may not be the best of choice to start your morning (or your digestive tract) off. Reach for something a little milder for those pre-flight meals – nothing too spicy, too gigantic, or guaranteed to produce gas.

Hydrate Effectively

Try to actively drink a ton of water and other replenishing fluids in the two days before you fly, that way you don’t have to try to catch up the day of your flight. For a super source of hydration try a sports drink (Gatorade, Powerade, Smart Water, or any of the generic equivalents). You’ll be pleasantly surprised with how refreshed you feel and, since you hydrated ahead of time, you won’t feel like a pitcher of water has engorged your bladder, turning you into that guy that got up “like 20 times” on the two-hour flight.

Shower Regularly

As a common courtesy to all those around you, plan on bathing. Obviously, an overnighter in the airport may be out of your control and, in that case, it’s perfectly understandable to skimp on the shower, but in general, make an effort to show up fresh and clean. Not only will you feel refreshed and less grimy, you won’t contribute to the collective B.O. that’s bound to build up in-flight.

Dress Accordingly

Whether for business or pleasure, your in-flight wardrobe can be a burden or a blessing.

If you have to fly to a business meeting, try and select some wrinkle-free, breathable pants and shirts from your collection. If you’re flying for pleasure, choose something comfortable that doesn’t make you look like a vagrant.

Another important tip is to pick something that secures the items in your pockets (especially important for guys with cells phones, wallets, etc.). Some of the sleekest new smart phones are also the most aerodynamic when it comes to escaping the pockets of their masters. Do a quick personal inventory before you dash off the claustrophobia chamber to avoid a meltdown later. Nobody takes it well when they learn their $300 phone is headed to another city… unaccompanied… lonely… full of detailed personal information, accessibility to various accounts, and possibly compromising photographic content.

As far as shoes go, any recent traveler will tell you the most important part thing to remember slip on, slip off. First, this helps you breeze through security without creating any bottlenecks while you secure your laces. Second, you can ditch your kicks once you’re on the plane to get settled in more comfortably. There are a variety of brands to choose from that are perfect for this; just to name a few: the exceedingly popular Crocs, the traditional Van’s Slip-ons, and for the trailblazer, try some Keens.

Rest Comfortably

Many people approach the on-board snooze differently, but not all tactics offer the best results. While an alcoholic drink or two may offer some relaxation of the nerves, too much will just leave you feeling, groggy, dehydrated, and irritable. If you really have an issue with flying in general, consulting your doctor about possible medications or over-the-counter remedies to help you relax and/or sleep may not be a bad idea.

To avoid chemical solutions you can turn to all kinds of quirky gadgets. Try on the GLOtoSLEEP mask, designed to help you meditate yourself to sleep. By focusing on several glow-in-the-dark bands of blue set in the mask the wearer is apparently able to coax the brain into a relaxed “alpha state” conducive to falling asleep.

If you just can’t get comfortable, try a travel pillow to help you adjust. One of the most bizarre, if not seemingly most effective, examples is the Sky Rest travel pillow. When it comes to blocking out the noise on an airline flight, headphones are a great idea. Familiar examples from Sony and Bose offer the latest in high-quality noise cancelling products, but if you’re on a budget just find the pair that is comfortable on your ears and makes your tunes sound good.

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