I find that flying can be a bit like decorating. The idea of a freshly painted room is fantastic to start off with, then after an hour or so, the novelty wears off and I’m sat wishing I had never started in the first place. A bit like the excitement of flying on holiday dwindling after hours of being cooped up in an aircraft.

At least when flying I am not stuck in my living room staring at four walls, and when I get off the plane the other side, I will encounter a whole new experience. However, after 10 hours on an aircraft, I would probably consider the thought of sitting comfortably in my living room at home to be absolute bliss.

So, for air travellers who want to remain as comfortable as possible during a long haul flight, I have listed a few quick tips below:

1. Upgrade:
If you really want to stay comfortable when flying, try and get an upgrade to Business Class or First Class.

2. Front Row Seats:
If you are unsuccessful with the upgrade route, the next best thing is to get a front row seat or a seat by an emergency exit. These seats normally have extra leg room.

3. Aisle Seats:
As a last resort to get a bit of extra leg room, your best bet is to try and get an aisle seat. At least with an aisle seat you can occasionally stretch your legs out (as long as you don’t trip up anyone walking down the aisle). An aisle seat also makes it easier for you to get up and down to stretch your legs, and means you can get to the bathroom without having to climb over other passengers next to you.

4. Pillow:
To help you sleep on the flight, think about taking your own pillow and light blanket. The familiar smell of home can help you to get more comfortable and sleep better. If you are worried about carrying your own pillow and blanket, you can buy a blow up neck supporter pillow to save on space. Ear plugs can also help to shut out some of the onboard noises, so you can get to sleep easier.

5. Painful Ears:
If you suffer from painful ears during take off or landing, special ear plugs are available which equalise the air pressure on each side of the ear drum. These ear plugs are especially useful if you have a cold or allergy / sinus problems. One common brand that you can buy is called Earplanes.

6. Dehydration:
Flying can cause dehydration, so make sure you drink lots of water during your flight. Take your own bottle of water onto the plane with you, just in case.

7. Snacks:
Airline meals aren’t always the most filling, so it is wise to take some of your own snacks on the plane.

8. Anxiety:
There are many options for you if you suffer from anxiety when flying. Learn some simple breathing skills that you can use on the flight to reduce stress and calm you down. Take some activities like crosswords or a book that you can concentrate on. If you think your anxiety is too intense, it could be worth talking to your Doctor as he or she might be able to recommend something to help keep you calm before and during the flight.

By following one or more of these tips, I hope that you will increase your comfort levels when you next fly. Above all, try to think about all of the experiences that you are about to encounter when you reach your destination!

Further information:

For detailed seat map plans of aircraft check out http://www.seatguru.com/

air travel

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