Try Our Tips for a Stress Free Flight | ExpatWoman.com
 

Try Our Tips for a Stress Free Flight

Posted on

31 December 2014

Last updated on 30 November 2015


Try Our Tips for a Stress Free Flight


Whether you're flying for business or pleasure take our top tips to have a great flight!

Frequent fliers all use these tips all the time in order to avoid stressful airport situations. If you're travelling take our top tips and make sure that you have a great time at your destination and upon your return.

 

Be aware of connection times
If you're booking your own flights online leave yourself at least 2 hours between connections. You can never predict the weather, mechanics or the timing of the aircraft so if you are delayed you might end up feeling super stressed, or worse - missing the following flight. 

 

Check for new regulations before you leave home
Airport security differs in each country and they are ever changing. Make sure that you check the airport regulations before your flight in case any of the procedures have changed. Keep in mind that, for international flights, you have to arrive three hours before the flight but the ground staff will not issue you a boarding pass if you arrive less than an hour before the flight. 

Online Checkin

Online check in
Do yourself a favour and check in online. Choose your seat when booking your ticket and check in online as soon as you can. This will be a life saver if the flight is overbooked - you should still get one and it will give you more time to get to the airport and take a leisurely stroll through duty free.

 

Dress for comfort
Put those high heels into your luggage and wear comfortable shoes and socks. Remember that the aircraft tends to be a lot cooler than you think and the thin blanket may not be enough to keep you comfortable. Also keep a thin pashmina or scarf and cardigan in your hand luggage. It's better to be safe than freezing.


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Don't wear unnecessary accessories
People at the security check point will give you the stink eye if you roll up to the security scanner adorned with belts and jewellery. Keep unnecessary items safely packed - you don't need it on your flight.  
 

Don't wear make-up
The air in the cabin is extremely dry, and there are millions of germs on the aircraft. Cleanse and moisturise your face at home and bring face mist to keep your face hydrated. Make up will look terrible after a long flight, and once you're on the plane no one is really paying attention to you.

 

Wear shoes to the toilet
Men don't really have the best aim to begin with, so imagine the bathroom floor on a flight. Always wear shoes when going to the toilet (and try not to sit on the toilet seats either). 

Chocolate

Get the flight attendant a gift
Flight attendants are suckers for chocolates, so grab a box of Ferreros on the way to the plane. You'll get the best service with a smile and have a really, REALLY pleasant flight. Maybe even a gift from business class.

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Exit row seats are colder
If you've booked an exit row seat for more leg-room remember that these seats are substantially colder than the rest of the airplane so dress accordingly. Another interesting tip is that the seat row in front of the window exit row cannot recline. Don't choose these seats if you like your comfort. 

 

Drink lots of water
Forget the wine, and the soft drinks. Drink loads of water. The reason that most of us feel drained after a flight is because we are dehydrated. Remember that you are also at a different altitude so the effects of alcohol will be ten fold. Rather stick to the H2O and have a welcome drink at the bar when you land.