Air travel can be uncomfortable, but that doesn’t have to be the case! Follow these tips for healthy air travel and to make your experience enjoyable.
Arrive at the airport at least 30 minutes early so you have time to eat and stretch your legs before boarding your plane.
Make sure to pack snacks for the flight; airplane meals don’t always provide nutritious or tasty fare.
1. Bring snacks
Even if Cathay pacific inflight dining is tasty, there’s good reason to bring snacks when flying: many in-flight meals may not meet expectations, while those on Economy class tickets or higher may have no meals provided at all! Packing healthy snacks with you can help ensure a better travel experience; plus they’re much healthier than purchasing food in an airport or while in transit.
Make sure that the snacks you bring on board are convenient, nonperishable and clean for the sake of fellow passengers. Examples may include granola bars, RX Bar protein bars or apples/bananas; nuts or jerky may also make great treats! Note, however, that some airlines request passengers not bring any nuts products due to people with allergies being onboard.
If you’re taking a long flight, consider packing single-serving beverages. Just be sure to pack them before going through security – this will make the line move more quickly for everyone else! Alternatively, look out for small grocery stores within airports which sell single serving food and beverages that could make life easier for everyone else – these options could prove more economical and convenient.
2. Bring a water bottle
Airplanes can be dehydrating environments, and having a water bottle allows you to stay hydrated without paying exorbitant prices for beverages sold at airports. Plus, you can save money by refilling it after clearing security.
Reusable stainless steel or BPA-free plastic water bottles are an eco-friendly alternative, helping reduce waste while staying hydrated on-the-go. Just ensure the lid is properly closed to avoid leaks; additionally, bring along a brush or mixture of soap and water for cleaning prior to and after each use.
Dehydration makes it harder to sleep and focus on tasks, making the flight seem longer than it actually is. Furthermore, dehydration can lead to headaches, fatigue and skin/mucous membrane irritation – having access to water via a bottle ensures you remain hydrated throughout your journey.
Take note, though: TSA limits liquid to 3.4 ounces at one time, so if traveling with an empty water bottle will require emptying it before going through security checkpoint. Many airports offer dumping stations where you can dump out your bottle prior to passing through security; stop by one for easy disposal! Alternatively, purchase one after you pass through security or at your airline gate.
3. Bring a jacket or sweater
Flight comfort is of utmost importance on long flights. Wearing clothes that stretch is key in order to remain comfy throughout. Avoid anything too tight which could become uncomfortable and prove challenging to remove in case security requires removal – instead wear something like Everlane’s Drapey Square shirt to make your flight more comfortable!
When traveling on longer flights, it is wise to bring along a light sweater or jacket. Not only will this keep you warm and comfortable during security screening processes; but its stylish appearance may help set apart from others in your seat group. Metal can slow security clearance times significantly. Furthermore, lightweight slippers or boots may save luggage space by giving you access to walking around or sitting outside during layovers if desired.
Take an additional important step and bring a power bank and plug adapter. This will ensure your phone or tablet remains charged during flight so that you won’t run out of power before landing. Also bring books or movies to help pass the time while traveling – these will all help pass time while waiting.
4. Bring a pillow
Long-haul flights can be tough on your back, which is why having a pillow handy can make all the difference in terms of comfort. While airlines usually provide pillows on flights, bringing your own is best since who knows who used the airline pillow before you – plus, there’s no telling who may have used it before you. A quality travel pillow will support your head to prevent sore neck or headache upon waking.
There are various types of travel pillows to suit any need or taste; you’re sure to find one that meets them! Lavender can help induce relaxation while other pillows use more durable materials like buckwheat or millet hulls for durability. Some inflatable travel pillows even take up minimal space when packed in luggage.
Your own pillow may encroach on the space of the person sitting behind you, so always ask before reclining. In most cases, they will give their approval; but if not, don’t be intimidated into asking.
A pillow can come in handy when filling out forms or going through security. While it might seem trivial, having something handy will save you from needing to borrow one from your seatmate or searching for it on landing.
5. Bring a blanket
Airlines often distribute blankets on long flights, but bringing your own travel blanket will make the flight much more comfortable. Airlines usually provide thin blankets that don’t provide sufficient warmth; additionally they don’t get washed between flights either! By contrast, using your own travel blanket provides greater hygiene and warmth while being superior in quality than any airline-provided blanket.
Travel blankets will fit easily into your personal item or carry-on luggage, but be aware of size and weight restrictions for your specific airline before traveling. In particular during the COVID-19 pandemic, regulations could become stricter; you may need to show evidence that it was prescribed by a physician as proof.
Bring along a pillow for optimal sleeping on any flight and to prevent neck soreness after landing. A large neck pillow may even double up as an effective headrest that’s much more comfortable than what the airline provides; or buy one at the airport or local retailer offering bedding and home goods if necessary if none already exist – though any airline check-in desk or gate may offer similar blankets at no additional charge!
6. Bring a neck pillow
Find a suitable travel neck pillow can make or break your trip. A good one will allow you to rest comfortably during long flights, enabling better restful sleep. Furthermore, it may help keep your head in its proper place, decreasing soreness or stiffness upon waking. Having one in particular may prove particularly helpful if you experience neck pain when flying.
There is a wide variety of travel neck pillows on the market, so it is essential that you find one that meets your specific needs. Some include memory foam versions which may provide greater comfort. A good idea would be finding one with a strap which can support your head when sleeping in an inclined position; additionally, take note of its size and machine washing capability before purchasing any pillow.
Make sure to pack a blanket on your flight for added comfort, and use it if it gets cold during the journey. Also bring noise-cancelling headphones and earplugs if possible; all of this can make a significant difference to how relaxed and enjoyable your journey will be. Also remember to ask the person sitting in front of you before reclining your seat – in case they feel claustrophobic.