From foot-kicking neighbors to an overly-talkative seatmate, it’s always a gamble when you step aboard an aircraft. Flying can be exhilarating, stressful, boring, and downright scary at times. I’m here to give you a few simple tips to ease the burden when you take to the skies and possibly even make your travels downright enjoyable!

Prioritize Comfort

Sure, you may want to step off the plane in New York looking fabulous in your jeans or new dress – but you don’t want to sit for an extended period in them. Think comfort and ease, whether it’s your favorite wrinkle-free trousers, yoga pants, or t-shirt. Don’t discount comfortable footwear either. It’s very common to retain water weight on planes, puffing up in the ankles and feet, so sneakers or flat footwear with some room are best. Don’t forget to layer! Consider the air-conditioning of the airplane, and then your arrival destination. If they’re vastly different, pack a spare outfit in your carry-on to change into prior to landing.

Set the Mood – For Sleep

If you’re on an overnight flight, increase the odds of getting some shut-eye with a good sleep mask, neck pillow, and earplugs. I always bring a large blanket scarf when I travel, which in a pinch can be used as a pillow or a blanket.

Pack Provisions

Bringing extra snacks means you’re not at the mercy of the busy flight attendants, and you can stay satiated (and hydrated) on your own timeline. This will also keep the impulse Pringle purchases to a minimum, saving both your credit card and your sodium levels.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

And I’m not talking about drinking water. Bring moisturizer, and even Vaseline for your lips and the inside of your nose. The recirculated air on airplanes is notoriously drying, and between that and the decreased blood flow thanks to your 30,000ft altitude, your skin will suffer. One of my personal favorites is the mini bottles of Evian facial spray, for a quick and refreshing pick-me-up mist.

Listen Up

Bring your own headphones, not only to be able to connect to the inflight movies (if your headphones are still compatible with the in-seat port) but to fend off chatty neighbors. Are the headphones even plugged into anything? Only you know, but it sends a clear message that you’re not available for conversation.

Clean it Up

Bring your own travel set of Lysol wipes and hand sanitizer, and ensure you give yourseat tray and armrests a thorough wipe down before settling in. There’s often a very short time when turning around a plane, and rarely do they receive deep cleaning treatments.

Tried, Tested & True

Now is not the time to break the mold and try that new mask (if your airline mandates wearing them) or skin cream you’ve been trying. Stick to your favorites and well-used versions of everything, so you have no surprises at 30,000 feet.

For more flying tips, reach out to me directly, and we can get you up and away on your next vacation.