In case you haven’t noticed, there’s not a ton of room on commercial airliners.
This is especially true if you’re not flying first class.
However, it’s still important to fly.
Some trips just aren’t possible via any other method of travel.
And sometimes, other methods of travel just aren’t fast enough.
You can’t beat the overall convenience of flying.
However, beating the discomfort you may experience as a result of small, cramped seats and other comfort inconveniences—well, that’s another ordeal.
So in this post, you’re going to learn 7 ways to make your flight more comfortable to help you make your next leisure or business trip a little bit less problematic.
Let’s jump into it.
1. Pack A Sleep Mask
Sleeping on a plane can be especially challenging.
Between blinking lights, sunlight, and light shining from other people’s devices—getting needed rest and shuteye can actually be a problem.
But a sleep mask helps to solve this problem and does a pretty good job of it.
2. Bring A High-Quality Travel Pillow
There are a plethora of awesome travel cervical pillows on the market. You can buy U-shaped pillows, flexible pillows, square pillows, round pillows, pillows that strap to your head, etc.
For best results, take a look online at different types of travel pillows, and purchase the one that you think would help you to sleep the best in an airplane.
This is actually an important tip to utilize because let’s face it—plane seats aren’t necessarily engineered for a decent night’s sleep!
3. Resist The Urge To Cross Your Legs
Believe it or not, crossing your legs can be an issue on a plane.
It can cut off circulation, make your feet tingle, and just in general inhibit your ability to enjoy the flight as much as possible.
Plus, getting up to ‘walk off’ the leg cramp actually isn’t a seriously good option while in the air mid-flight.
For best results, try to rest your legs in a normal uncrossed position.
Note: Want to learn more about how to arrange business travel to work for you? Check out these business travel tips from Hotel Engine.
4. Try Not To Eat Too Much Before Your Flight
Waiting for your flight while within striking distance of the terminal food court can be a tempting situation to put yourself into.
On one hand, that airport food court plunder can be delicious.
On the other hand, eating too much before your flight can actually put you at risk of an upset stomach.
If there’s one thing you don’t want, it’s to have a cramped stomach while you’re feeling cramped between two neighbors on a flight.
5. Nap Before Watching A Movie
It’s super tempting to tune into a movie while traveling on a long flight.
However, it’s generally a good idea to try to sleep first and then watch a movie later.
The reason for this is that screens emit blue light—which actually keeps you awake.
It messes with your brain’s natural circadian rhythm and makes you believe that the sun is shining even if it’s not.
Therefore, sleeping first and then finishing off the flight with a movie is a much better approach. For a more comfortable sleep, you can check first the turbulence forecast so you can prepare to buckle up before you take a nap.
6. Dress For The Occasion
One interesting thing about planes is that you’re never sure how hot or cold you’re going to feel.
Some flights get really hot and balmy, while some actually end up making you feel like you’re sitting in a refrigerator.
The key to solving this problem is to dress in layers.
If you wear multiple layers that can be easily peeled off to help you cool down in the event that the temperature starts to rise, you should be good to go to stay comfortably dressed for the entire flight.
7. Pack Earplugs
To people who regularly fly, mentioning earplugs may seem like a no-brainer.
However, if you’ve never been trapped on a six-hour redeye with a screaming baby and arguing parents, then you may not appreciate the value that a high-quality pair of earplugs can provide.
Just trust us—pack a pair!
Conclusion
There you have it.
7 tips to help you stay as comfortable as possible while flying.
All that’s left now is to pack your bags and get on with the trip.
You know what they say…
”A rolling stone gathers no moss.”
You’ve got this. Now get out there and make it happen.