From Takeoff to Landing: Fly Comfortably For a Better Start to Your Trip

Flying can be both frustrating and exhausting, especially when you're on a long flight. Being prepared with the right items can make a world of difference in how comfortable you feel in the air and your state of mind and body when you land and start the next part of your adventure.

Here are 16 suggestions to keep you comfortable and enjoy your next flight:

1. Dress Comfortably

   Wear loose clothing and plan layers to adjust to fluctuating cabin temperatures.

   
   

2. Comfortable Shoes

   Wear comfortable shoes that will allow for some swelling. For a long flight, possibly consider bringing slippers.

3. Pack a Travel Pillow And Travel Blanket

   Bring a neck pillow for comfort and to better sleep. This can be especially helpful for long-haul flights. Also, not all airlines offer blankets, especially on shorter flights. I always travel with a pashmina shawl, which is versatile and takes up little space. For me, it doubles as a blanket on planes and in airports.

   
   

4. Stretch and Move Around

   If you do well on drinking water, “moving around” (to the restroom) will come hand-in-hand. ;-)  Do simple stretches in your seat or walk up and down the aisle every hour to avoid stiffness and promote circulation.

1. Drink Water

   The cabin air is dry, so drink plenty of water before and during the flight. Bottled water or airport cooler water is better and safer than airplane tap water. Buy disposable bottles. Or, even better for your budget and environment, bring a sports bottle and fill it at the airport near your gate. Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol, which can dehydrate you further.

   
   

2. Bring Snacks

   Pack healthy snacks like nuts, fruit, or granola bars to avoid hunger and keep energy levels up, especially on flights with limited food options. Avoid bringing “smelly” foods to not offend your nearby cabin neighbors.

1. Block It All Out

   Drown out engine noise and chatty neighbors with high-quality noise-canceling headphones or earplugs and an eye mask for a better sleeping environment.  

   
   

2. Bring Items to Freshen Up and Combat Dryness

   Lip Balm and hand cream/moisturizer help combat the dry air in the cabin. Mouthwash, deodorant, and face wipes can go a long way to freshen up. Remember the TSA 3-1-1 rule for carry-on gels, creams, and liquids. 

1. Prepare for Entertainment

   Download movies, music, or e-books to your device. Don’t forget a portable charger or battery pack to keep your electronics powered.

   
   

   My perspective: I travel with downloaded Kindle and Audible books, my favorite battery bank, and two phone cables, so there's a spare.

   
   

2. Invest in Premium Economy or Upgrades

   If possible, splurge on a seat upgrade for extra legroom or premium perks like priority boarding, beverages, and (better) meals.

1. Carry an Aromatherapy Roll-On

   A small roll-on with calming scents like lavender or eucalyptus can help you relax during the flight.

   
   

2. Wear Compression Socks

   These can help improve circulation and reduce swelling in your legs.

   
   

   My perspective: I like Wellow compression socks.

   
   

14. Pre-Order Special Meals

    If your flight offers food, see if your airline can pre-select meals.

    
    

15. Bring Along Your Meds

    Prescriptions should always be in your carry-on luggage rather than check-in. But besides that, for the sake of this article, having your medications with you will also ensure they are on hand if needed during your flight or if there are flight delays. Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen can come in handy for aches from flying. A decongestant can be especially helpful if cabin pressure changes create pain in your sinuses.

    
    

    

    
    

16. Practice Good Posture

    Sit back fully in your seat with support for your lower back. Use a small cushion or rolled-up jacket for lumbar support.

    
    

17. Use a Footrest or Travel Hammock

    Portable footrests or inflatable travel hammocks can make economy seating more comfortable by supporting your legs.

    
    

With these 16 tips, you'll be well-prepared for a more comfortable and enjoyable flight. A little preparation goes a long way in making your travel experience stress-free and pleasant. Remember, the more relaxed you are in the air, the more energy you'll have to enjoy your destination.

Happy Traveling!

-Connie