GETTING OVER THE FEAR OF FLYING

View fullsize

At 15, I went on my first flight to Disney. We experienced such extreme turbulence, that the flight attendants laid down in the isles and held onto the seats. I was terrified of flying after that. Slowly but surely, though, I've become better about flying, or have at least found ways to manage the panic and unease. Here are my suggestions:

1) Invest in noise canceling headphones - Just like scary movies; the sounds are a big part of what scares me. Once I put these on, I can rest more comfortably and not feel as though every noise is evidence of the engine failing. 

2) Book your seat in the back of the plane - That's usually where the flight attendants sit, so they’ll be nearby if you need to ask them questions. It's also usually near the bathroom, in case your nerves get the best of you. If you foresee yourself getting up often, you can sit in the aisle seat, so you don't disturb those around you. It can be a bit noisy in the back, but if you have decent headphones, it shouldn't be a problem. Side note: seats in the middle usually experience less turbulence.

3) Be mindful of factors that trigger your travel anxiety. Yes, this is mostly common sense, but eating poorly, not getting enough sleep, and drinking alcohol excessively/dehydration will all make anxiety worse. It's important to remember this before and during your trip. 

4) Research the mechanics and statistics of flying – Statistically, driving a car is way more dangerous than flying. Planes were built to be in the sky… (Repeat in your head 100 times!) Looking at stats helps put things into perspective. Knowledge is power! FlightAware shows you how many planes are in the air right now.

I'd highly recommend reading Cockpit Confidential by Patrick Smith, who was previously a pilot and answers passengers questions about flying. 

5) Observe the flight attendants - Most of them will seem like ordinary people, like you, with friends and families… and reasons to live. Chances are, they wouldn't be risking their lives on a daily basis for a job that is crazy dangerous.  

6) Have a drink before boarding - If your anxiety is manageable, sometimes one drink is just enough to make you sleepy or to take off the edge. But don't get drunk- that won't help! 

7) Avoid caffeine as it can increase your nerves and make you feel anxious. 

8) Turn on the air above your seat when you board and take a deep breath. If you easily feel claustrophobic like me, circulating air makes all the difference.

9) Close your eyes - "Out of sight, out of mind." Try not to look out the window when the plane is taking off or landing. Put on a movie or read a book and try to forget your surroundings.

10) Distract yourself - Read, watch a movie, draw, type, write, listen to music… anything that helps you feel more calm and relaxed.

How about you, do you have a fear of flying? If so, what is the scariest part for you? Do you have any tips? Comment below! Xx ASH

.  

TIPS TO GET YOUR TO DESTINATION QUICKER

Let me start off by saying I hate flying. I get anxious days before a trip knowing I'll have to get on a bus that magically flies through the air. With each trip, I research how to make things a better, less stressful experience. I still panic, though, when taking off and brace myself for impact every time I land. Ugh - my nerves are getting bad just writing this. So, here are some tips to make things a little easier:

View fullsize

BAGGAGE TIPS //

1. Check how many bags you can take - sometimes you have to pay for your checked baggage or additional bags. Check the websites beforehand for specifications on baggage allowance.

2. Check the weight of carry-ons, personal bags, and checked bags - there are weight limits, so be sure to check them. Many airlines won't budge on weights, especially for international flights. Be sure to measure and weigh your bags in advance, so you don’t hold up the lines at the airport. Also, remember the personal item will be at your feet on the plane, so just because it fits doesn't mean you will be comfortable during the flight.

3. Know the TSA Liquid Rules - For your carry-on bag, make sure liquids are in clear containers, 3.4 oz/ 100ml or less, and packed away in a clear, quart-sized plastic bag. Pack larger items in your checked bag. Check your carrier's website to ensure you meet all their specifications.

4. Make sure you have wheels on your suitcase. I prefer four wheels so I can push it in front of me instead of dragging it behind me.

5. Get an obnoxious luggage strap or wrap the handles with bright colors so you can easily spot it at the baggage claim. Everyone has black Samsonite; you don't want to get your bag taken accidentally.

6. Try to fly with a carry-on only. You don't have to worry about a carry-on getting lost, it doesn't require you to wait around at the baggage claim, and it's nice not to have a ton of stuff to drag around.

AIRPORT TIPS //

1. Check in online beforehand, print tickets, & pay for checked bags. Taking care of this in advance will save you time waiting in lines and get you to security faster.

2. Sign up for a TSA Precheck or Global Entry for travel within the U.S. This will allow you to bypass long lines and get through security with ease.

3. Dress accordingly. Wear your bulkiest items to leave room in your luggage, but remember more often than not security will make you take off shoes and jewelry, and take change out of your pockets.

4. If you parked at the airport, take a photo of where you parked so you can find your car when you return.

5. Arrive early to give yourself plenty of time. There is nothing worse than rushing like a crazy person and running through the airport.

6. Find something that makes you happy. Whether it's coffee, wine, juice, or a big fat chocolate chip cookie, relax, you're going on a trip somewhere. Treat yourself!

View fullsize

FLIGHT TIPS //

1. Try to book the first available flight of the day to help avoid delays. Yes, you will have to go to bed early the night before.. but you will avoid morning traffic and get to the airport faster. It will also save you money if you plan to take a cab.

2. Book flights for Tuesday or Wednesday if plans are flexible. These are the two most unpopular days to travel. Most people start their vacations on the weekends and most travel for work on Mondays and Fridays. Usually, you'll find cheaper fares on these days and shorter lines at the airport. 

3. When traveling with children, avoid booking early or late flights, as either can disrupt your child's sleep schedule. It's also mindful of other passengers, who may plan to sleep during those hours. Try to opt for the window seat to keep children easily entertained.

4. Don't forget to take a refillable water bottle and fill up after security before boarding the plane. For long flights, save the room on the back of the seat and put the bottle in your shoes to keep it from rolling around under the seats.

5. Bring a scarf no matter the temperature as it can also be used as a blanket on chilly flights.

6. Drink tons of water to help keep you hydrated. Yes, you may need to use the restroom more, but take advantage of that time too by stretching while you wait for the restroom to be available.

7. Don't forget a pen when flying internationally, as you'll need to fill out a landing card or forms.

8. Bring a good book so you can conserve battery life on devices during long flights.

9. Pack some healthy snacks to avoid spending more on unhealthy options.

Do you have any tips? Please share below. Xx ASH