Flights are taxing ordeals for even the most experienced of travelers and people usually arrive at their destination exhausted and jet-lagged. However, there are many tips you can follow to ensure your flight is refreshing, comfortable, and even pleasant instead of draining.
1. Be Wary Of Over Packing
If you’re going on a work trip where there are going to be formal events or if you’re traveling with children or elderly parents or if you really want to show off your wardrobe on vacation, you may be tempted to overpack. While over-packing appears to solve problems (and lessen the need to use the hotel laundry service), it actually creates stress and you may be asked to pay extra for the weight. Not to mention lugging all the extra weight around will affect your energy, mood as well as strain muscles and there is an increased risk of losing some of the luggage in transit.
Many people are able to manage whole trips just by strategically packing a carry-on suitcase so consider whether that is an option for you. If you must have a suitcase, keep it at the bare minimum and opt for one with smooth easy-to-maneuver wheels.
2. Productivity Pays
Many people work rather well on flights due to the abundance of time available to them and the fact that they can’t just get up and take a drive around town. By minimizing distractions by using earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, try to get some work done even if it is only answering emails, you’ll feel a lot better about the flight!
Asking for in-flight WiFi is also a great way to get some of your work done or you can always watch movies or videos to pass the time. Educational podcasts or audiobooks are definitely a dream come true for long flights. If possible invest in getting a better seat so you have more space to put your laptop but economy seats are not equal across airlines so do a United economy vs basic economy comparison for example before deciding if you want to spend more.
3. A Health Opportunity
A flight is actually an incredible opportunity to get as much sleep as you can. Pack items that will help you fall asleep faster whether it is a pillow mist, sleep oil, eye mask, earplugs, a convertible travel pillow, muscle rub, or a soft shawl. Better sleep means hormonal balance and an increase in cognitive abilities so you get off on the right foot when you reach your destination. Don’t forget to drink a lot of water too as well as sugar-free green juices (you can pack a bottle or two from home).
4. Sanitize, Sanitize, Sanitize
Hygiene and protecting yourself from germs and pathogens has never been so important. Build up your immunity in the weeks before your flight by consuming a lot of vegetables as well as supplements such as zinc, vitamin C, and vitamin D. On the flight itself, make sure you use a sanitizing spray or rubbing alcohol to disinfect seats, buttons, remotes, and any other thing you’ll be in constant contact with. Keep disinfectant wipes and sanitizer bottles on hand to constantly use as much as you can.
