You spent plenty of time packing for your trip, but did you plan for the flight itself?
Have you started traveling again, yet? I have limited my travel over the last year, but have been dying to get back out there. As I plan for my next flight, I want to do so in the safest and most comfortable way possible.
As far as comfort goes, I have accrued some great hacks that make it easy for me to and step off the plane in style, ready for anything. Here are six.
There is nothing worse than waking up mid-flight with your head haphazardly tilted to the side and now stuck in an unnatural position. Many plane seats barely recline back and offer zero space between seats for flyers to spread out or get comfortable. The neck pillow eases neck tension and allows for restful sleep—even in an upright position. Bring a neck pillow. Nap like a champion.
You know the story. You are just about to fall asleep and the person sitting in front of you thrusts open his window and unleashes the full power of the bright sun. Pack an eye mask so that you can control your sleep schedule, not your neighbor.
Plane cabins fluctuate in temperature dramatically during a flight, so plan ahead and bring comfortable clothing that you can easily shed. Wearing a tank underneath a jacket allows you to adjust quickly to the changing temperatures. Also, don’t forget to wear shoes that you can loosen or slip off to prevent foot cramping or stiffness.
Instead of constantly buying water bottles at the airport, bring your own and use the airport fill-up stations. Flight attendants can top off the water bottle instead of giving you the small, single sip cup. While it seems counterintuitive, drinking lots of fluids will reduce water retention. Hydrate your body, reduce swelling, and simultaneously save the planet!
Food with a high sodium count can contribute to water retention and discomfort. According to the American Heart Association, choosing meals and snacks with excess salt will cause an almost immediate constriction of blood flow and boost blood pressure. Pass on the airport breakfast sandwich and the in-flight peanuts. Check the airport website beforehand, but a lot of airports allow you to bring your own lunch on the plane.
Despite the cramped cabin area, make sure to walk the aisles to stretch your legs. Don’t be that person you see doing yoga in the back of the plane, but do try to get up from your seat every hour, rotate your ankles, and point and flex your toes whenever possible.