Confession…I’m a travel blogger that doesn’t love flying. I can’t sleep on a plane, am never fully relaxed, and squeeze the heck out of the hand of the person next to me during takeoff. Kids learn from your behavior and I want mine to love flying so I’ve learned to keep it together during flights. I’ve developed some coping strategies that really help me while flying. Here are my top tips for nervous flyers:
GET DISTRACTED
Some of my tips for nervous flyers happen before they even get on a plane. Make sure you have plenty of things to do that will keep your mind off your worries. I love to get lost in a good movie, so I always download some onto my electronics. Don’t count on the plane to provide good movies; it’s always better to bring your own and not use them. I also load new music onto my phone.
PLAN ON NO ELECTRONICS
Ironically, takeoff and landing are the times when I’m most nervous and that’s when you can’t use electronics! I always plan things to do like a new book, a magazine, or a crossword puzzle. Here are some great books.
DON’T SWEAT TURBULENCE
Turbulence makes me incredibly nervous and when it’s really bad I feel like I’m going to have a panic attack. Then, someone told me a great analogy: Picture the plane in a huge bowl of jello. The plane jiggles around a lot but it’s not going anywhere. This is what I visualize during turbulence.
BLOCK OUT NOISE
Sounds from the plane can be a little scary because they may not sound ‘normal’ so it is best to block these out. Invest in a good set of wireless noise-blocking headphones.
TAKE A WALK
I always feel better after I’ve taken a walk to the restroom. It’s nice to stretch your legs and move around.
STAY CALM
There are lots of apps that focus on meditation and deep breathing. These have helped me out so much during long flights! My favorite app is Calm. You can listen to bedtime stories, hear soothing nature sounds, or do visualization exercises. A great trick is to write your name in script using your left hand. It always works!
GET SOME SLEEP
Even if you can’t fall asleep on a plane, making yourself comfortable will help you feel relaxed. Invest in a good sleep mask or a soft head pillow, turn off the overhead light, and sit back.
GET COZY
Planning out your outfit is key. For example, I have a “no belts” rule while flying. I always feel calmer when I’m wearing cozy clothes. Another option is to carry a throw like this one so I can use it as a shawl, blanket, or even a pillow.
SNACKS/COCKTAILS
Snacks are a good distraction on a flight so make sure you’ve brought some along. Stay away from sugary sweets since they may make you jittery. I know a cocktail always calms me down, so I look forward to one during a flight. I love this travel cocktail kit !
HAVE A BALL
Stress balls are great for releasing tension and are easy to pack. This stress ball is a great one.
BUDDY SYSTEM
Conversation can be the best distraction, so take some time to chat with your travel companion. What are you going to do while you’re on vacation? You can also play games like Would You Rather to pass the time. However, know when to stop talking…don’t be a chatty Cathy.
DO YOUR RESEARCH
If you’re an analytical person, do some research and find out the statistics of plane crashes and realize that flying is actually a very safe mode of transportation.
BE EARLY
One of my favorite tips for nervous flyers is to arrive to the airport early. Don’t add to your stress by having to rush through security and run across the airport to your plane. Give yourself plenty of extra time to relax at your gate before boarding.
CALM DOWN WITH ART
Adult coloring books are relaxing and they can distract you from worrying. Don’t forget to bring colored pencils or markers.
CAFFEINE
Too much caffeine can leave you jumpy, so you may want to skip it or just have one cup. Herbal tea is a soothing and comforting drink so you may want to grab some to bring on the plane. I always carry herbal tea packets in my carry-on so all I need is hot water when I get on the plane.
OILS
Essential oils can help with relaxation if you put it on your pulse point. Use scents like lavender, jasmine, and lemon to calm you. Make sure the oil is not too strong so you’re not bothering the people around you.
Most of all, try to focus on your destination and how much fun you are about to have!
Happy travels!
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