A vacation is always exciting and fun. However, for someone who is always nervous and stressed on every flight, the thought of traveling can be discouraging. After all, starting your trip with negative feelings means your vacation will not get off to a good start.
The good news, though, is that there are a few things you can do to make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable. The website MyBaggage.com has shared some tips to help passengers reduce stress and stay calm before and during their flight. A spokesperson for the website said: "There's no shame in being scared of flying, even if it's the safest aircraft available. Thousands of Brits face the fear of boarding a plane every summer, so we've put together eight tips to help you manage your anxiety and enjoy more relaxing trips to sunny destinations around the world."
Let's learn these 8 tips.
1. Chat with flight attendants on the flight
Flight attendants are some of the most experienced people on every flight, so take some time to chat with them.
The flight attendants are always happy to help calm your nerves and reassure you. Don't forget that they can always answer any specific questions you may have.
2. Prepare a good pair of headphones
Listening to your favorite music or interesting tunes on the Internet is a great way to limit cabin noise and keep your mind occupied.
3. Drink plenty of water
Dehydration can increase stress and fatigue, especially in low-pressure environments like airplanes. Dehydration is more likely to occur during flight because the air inside the cabin comes from outside and the air has less humidity at higher altitudes.
The simplest solution is to drink water – lots of it. Drink a glass or two before you board the plane and continue drinking water throughout the flight.
4. Avoid alcoholic beverages
Hangovers can lead to headaches and feeling sick and tired. The last thing a person with a fear of flying wants is to feel unwell in a confined space for hours under the influence of alcohol. Stay away from alcoholic drinks and choose soft drinks from the trolley.
5. Keep yourself busy
Get out of your seat and walk around the cabin; read a book or an in-flight magazine; make friends and chat with other passengers; play games on your electronic devices; play cards or puzzles; bring a notebook to write or draw; use the Wi-Fi if available to browse social media or watch a TV show. Do anything to take your mind off the fact that you are flying.
6. Focus on your vacation
If you’re worried about being stuck in the air, focus on the positives after you land: think about sitting by the pool or on the beach, exploring that city you’ve always wanted to visit. These are simply reasons why the journey is worth it.
7. Eat or sleep
Don’t miss out on any of the in-flight meals, take advantage of them. They may not be fancy, but they will satisfy your hunger and give you something to do for a while.
Sleep is also a great way to make time pass faster. Try to wake up early on the day of your flight, and the sleepiness will set in by take-off – close your eyes and your flight will be halfway over before you know it.
8. Do not consume caffeine on the day of the flight
Tea and coffee can increase feelings of stress and anxiety in uncomfortable situations, not just on the plane, but also on the ground. Avoid caffeinated drinks both before and during the flight to avoid unnecessary anxiety, and avoid hot drinks at the airport.
