6 Ways To Make A Plane Ride More Enjoyable

Boarding a plane these days can be a stomach-churning experience. Between flying anxiety, the turbulent political climate and the chaotic lines at airport check-ins and customs, it's tempting to alter your travel plans and opt for more "grounded" modes of transportation like the bus or train.

But whether you're taking a much-needed family vacation or heading to a business meeting, flying is still the fastest and safest way to go. And best of all, it doesn't have to eat away at your senses.

make yourself at home

While you can't control the major aspects of flying, there are little things you can do to ensure that your time in the sky is smooth and enjoyable -- assuming you don't have a severe fear of flying (which may require professional treatment).

It all boils down to preparation in order to make sure that you feel as calm and secure as you would in your own home. And it can be done; it just takes some sensible planning.

enjoy your flight

1. Reserve your seat in advance

One of the best things you can do to make sure everything goes accordingly is to book well ahead of your flight, to increase your chances of getting the seat you want. Nothing can put a damper on a flight more than being cramped between two strangers when you need to get up frequently to stretch.

You may want to opt for an aisle seat, thus giving you easy access to the restroom or your overhead bag without having to bother the person next to you. Also, try not to sit too close to the restrooms as they tend to be high-traffic areas. If you know you like to nap during your flight, try to request a window seat, so that you have something to lean on while catching some Zs. Finally, find out if the middle section has three or four seats, to know where you need to sit in order to be closest to the aisle.

2. Supply your own entertainment

Since the in-house activities -- ranging from a handful of dull radio stations to a movie you've likely seen already -- are limited at best, why not bring your own bag of gadgets?

In an age of high-end technology, you can have both
audio and video pleasures at your disposal. A CD or MP3 player, or a portable DVD player -- allowing you to watch flicks you know you'll enjoy -- will all help time fly by. You can even bring that Game Boy that has been lying around the house and try to break your last Tetris score.

If music and movies aren't your thing, why not get cracking on that 600-page novel you've been meaning to get to, or the latest Fortune magazine? Whatever you choose, the important thing is that you keep your mind occupied.

3. Dress appropriately

There's no way you'll be able to sit comfortably in a cramped space if you're not properly dressed. Wear loose garments like sweatpants, track pants or comfortable jeans, and wear a T-shirt under a button-down shirt or zip-up sweater, so that you can adapt to changing climates quickly and easily. Whatever you do, remember that layering is key. And since the temperature tends to drop while in flight, make sure you have warm socks handy (if you're wearing sandals).

If you're heading for a tropical climate, keep a pair of shorts in your carry-on bag to make a quick change after landing, or wear light pants such as linen or drawstring trousers.

If you're going to a business meeting and must wear a suit, just make sure to wear your most comfortable one -- you don't want to feel constricted by your fitted pants (no matter how great they look).

4. Maximize comfort

Now that you know what to wear, did you remember to pack the extras that can help maximize your comfort level?

Earplugs and chewing gum are very helpful in regulating the air pressure at high altitudes, particularly during takeoff and landing. And if you're hoping to snooze onboard, bring a neck pillow for some added support. As well, keep some moisturizer in your carryon to combat the effects of drastic temperature changes (the air in planes can get very dry).

Finally, be sure to keep a snack and some water at your disposal at all times, and don't forget to get up and stretch, especially if it's a long flight.

5. Follow proper etiquette

Many people often overlook the importance of maintaining a harmonious and stable traveling environment in order to avoid disrupting the flight crew or other passengers. Proper etiquette includes using the armrest on your right (unless there's no one sitting to your left, in which case you can use both) and keeping the noise levels down.

Be courteous to the flight attendant (remember that you should stay on their good side if you want extra special service), and be clear and upfront (in a polite way) with your talkative neighbor if you have work to do or just want to relax; he should understand. But don't miss an opportunity to strike up an interesting conversation either; not only is it another great way to kill time, but you never know who you might meet.

Above all else, don't let whatever irks you escalate into a fight with another passenger. An airplane, especially these days, is the last place you want to engage in hostile confrontations -- you can be fined or even arrested for air rage.

6. Stay positive

Once the plane takes off, it's crucial that you maintain a positive attitude. Don't think about outstanding bills, the work waiting for you when you get back home or the strange, albeit normal noises the plane makes; you'll get all worked up for nothing. Besides giving yourself a migraine, there's very little you can do once you're 30,000 feet in the air.

Likewise, if you're generally a nervous flier, avoid listening to or reading about bad news prior to your flight. Just look forward to your destination, and sit back and enjoy the ride.

bon voyage

Statistics show that, regardless of how you perceive things, flying is still safer than driving a car. And while overcoming a deep fear of flying may require more time and patience, taking care of the "little things" will at least put you in a more tranquil state, while giving you some peace of mind in the process. Remaining comfortable and planning sensibly are often all you need to get there.

Resources:
Airline Tickets
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