Okay, I'll admit it... I'm one of those people when I find myself in a conversation about travel (which has almost become a daily occurrence lately). So when I recently found myself with sweaty palms and a thumping heart on a turbulent flight to Sydney, I came to a surprising realisation: I don't actually like flying at all. I just like the places it takes me.
My first flight was from Perth to the Gold Coast as an eight year old. The list of destinations I have traveled to has grown immensely in 14 years, and it's fair to say I have quite a lot of flying experience for a 22 year old lady. From interstate to international, from smooth to turbulent, from almost missed to delayed for hours, from red-eyes to boarding at the crack of dawn. Realisation #2: These experiences are something I often take for granted.
During my conversations about travel, I have encountered people who have only been on one or two trips, have never flown internationally, or are just really nervous about long distance flying! I have compiled some tips on how I believe you can conquer any flight.
Comfort > Style
Being in transit involves both walking and sitting for long periods of time. I have seen far too many females tottering through airports in their uncomfortable high heels. I have regretted wearing tight jeans on a lengthy flight. My ultimate tip is to think about what will make you comfortable while you are confined within a small seat for hours, or while making the trek to the other side of the airport.
- Wear your most comfortable clothes and dress in layers. I prefer to wear leggings or other comfortable pants, a loose T-shirt, a cardigan and a scarf. Layering up means you won't get too cold and you can take off layers if you feel stuffy.
- Thick warm socks, ugg boots, your oldest jumper, or any other form of comfort clothing is 100% acceptable.
- Forget your makeup. Flying is already stressful for your skin and wearing makeup is only going to result in a breakout. And let's face it, nobody looks good at the end of a flight. However, make sure to moisturise and use lip balm as the recycled air will dry out your skin.
Never forget your headphones. Not only will good tunes make the time pass faster, they will also block the loud droning noise of the aeroplane, any snoring, coughing, crying or vomiting, and the noise of the toilet flushing! Preparing some good playlists before your journey is always a good idea!
Make the most of the in-flight entertainment and start a new TV series. Watch a movie you have always wanted to see. Bring a new novel, or load your Kindle with books. Pack your journal or write letters to your loved ones. Anything to keep yourself occupied!
Nourish
Aeroplane food is not the greatest, but it is food. You need food to function. Do your body a favour and at least eat something small, even if you aren't feeling the greatest. When you're in transit without fuel, your body will struggle... I learned this the hard way. Food in your hand luggage is a necessity if you think plane food is unbearable.
Secondly, hydration is so important while flying. Bring a bottle of water and take sips throughout the journey to avoid becoming dehydrated and lethargic.
Sleep
If you have mastered the art of sleeping on an aeroplane, you are the envy of many other passengers who are wide awake with tired eyes (including myself). A window seat, tray table, neck pillow, or the shoulder of someone you are traveling with, are your best bet for getting some rest.
Mind over Matter
Okay, so your flight might suck. You might start wondering why you even decided to board a flight and step out of your comfort zone in the first place. This precise moment is when you need to put things into perspective. Sure - you might be uncomfortable in the present, but in a few hours you will be on solid land again, with a decent meal and a good night's sleep coming up in the very near future! Think about all of the amazing things you are going to experience that would not be possible without stepping onto this aeroplane! With this in mind, I promise the slight turbulence or the aching in your legs will fade into the background. Sit back and enjoy the ride!
No comments:
Post a Comment