If you want to travel across the globe, the quickest way to get there is to fly. Whilst some find this exciting and thrilling, for others, it brings on the cold sweat and feelings of panic. If you’re a nervous flyer but desperate to get abroad, here are some handy tips:
Stay organised
Being disorganised and running late for example can add to your stress. To avoid raising your anxiety any further, arrive in good time, be prepared for possible traffic and delays and ensure all your tickets and passports are easily to hand. Once you’ve checked in and gone through security, you can try to relax with some distractions.
This is a good time to spend in an airport lounge, so it might be worth splashing out for access to one of these if you’re particularly anxious. They are quieter and more comfortable than public waiting areas, allowing you some time to get into the zone before you fly. They tend to have refreshments, TVs to distract yourself and luxurious chairs, like the Eames Lounge Chair. Find a range of Eames Lounge Chairs at Pash Classics.
Try to avoid alcohol
It can be tempted to have a glass or two to calm your nerves, but this isn’t a good idea. You might feel better in the airport, but once on the flight, it can make you feel worse, bringing on dehydration and jittery feelings. Be sure to drink plenty of water to hydrate yourself and lay off the caffeine too.
Talk to the crew
On boarding the plane, speak to the cabin crew and explain that you’re a nervous flyer. They will have plenty of experience of dealing with nerves and will be happy to answer your questions or put you at ease.
Listen to music
You might want to take your own headphones and create a relaxing playlist so you can pop them on and zone out whenever you feel your nerves getting the better of you.
Breathe
You might think this is a cliché but breathing exercises really do help. Taking slow and deep breaths helps to slow down your heart rate, relieving tension. Try practising with one of the many apps available that can teach the techniques. Deep breathing for at least 3 minutes will help your body and mind feel significantly more relaxed.
Get your facts right
Some of your anxiety could be due to focusing on the negative aspects of flight. When you look into the facts though, you’ll see that flying is incredibly safe. Read up on how long it takes to train as a pilot, all the safety regulations in place and the mechanics of flight so that none of the noises or feelings are strange or surprising to you.
Distract yourself
Pack your hand luggage with lots of nice, fun things to distract yourself during the flight. Perhaps a favourite book, some magazines or puzzles are good time-fillers. You could use the time to learn something new, a language guide for example for your destination. Long haul flights will also show movies, so tune in and you’ll be safely landing in no time.
