If you are a regular air traveler like I am then you will appreciate how important it is to be comfortable on a flight, especially long haul flights. I still get a real thrill when flying no matter what the length of the journey is. That being said, it took me a little while and flying experience to realize how important it is to prepare yourself for a flight so you make it as enjoyable as it should be.
If you are a tall or long legged traveler then you will know that leg-room on any flight is essential. If you cannot afford to upgrade then ensure that you get an isle seat. A windows seat will give you a better view at takeoff and landing but for the majority of the time you will be 30,000 feet high in the sky so there is nothing really to see except cloud formations.
To ensure you get an isle seat I would recommend booking the seat in advance. If you don’t you run the risk of being late for the flight and minimal choice of seating options. If you want to take the chance and prefer to avoid the small expense of advance seat booking then get to the check-in early and specifically ask for an isle seat or a seat near the emergency exit as they always have more room. You would very rarely be declined if they are available. An isle seat will allow you to stretch your legs out a little more and you will have instant access to the toilets without disturbing anyone. You may find that the person sitting next to you will go at the same time to avoid disturbing you.
I always wear long trousers when flying and a long sleeve top because the flights can get a little chilly. Yes you can request a blanket but I always feel more comfortable in my own lose clothing. One thing I do religiously is to remove my shoes. You may notice that you feet expand in flight so I remove them after take-off. Some airlines will provide you with free socks and I always take them up on the offer. An inflatable pillow is ideal for supporting your neck and an eye mask to help you sleep is a consideration.
Try and avoid drinking excess liquids otherwise you will be running to the toilet frequently. Coffee will keep you awake due to the caffeine content. I normally have a glass of red wine which seems to relax me. I will often bring my own headphones because not all flights will supply them. Some soothing music is a perfect way to unwind. I always bring a book, sometimes I may never get round to reading it but it’s there is a need it.
Don’t forget you can recline your seat. Many people do not like to do this because of the people behind, but if the person in front of you does it, you have no choice. This will also give you a little extra leg room and places you in more of a sleep mode.
Fatigue is a common problem and stiff joints can be very serious issues. You can easily get your body moving again without leaving your seat. Sure a little walk down the plane will do this but there are some simple exercises we can do that will get the blood flowing again in no time. Start at your toes by moving them up and down. You can rotate your ankles and stretch your foot up and down. Bend you knees and move them from side to side. Hold you hands together out stretched and move them from up and down, bending at the elbows from time to time. You can do this every few hours so your body is subtle and free from fatigue.
If you have small children in front of you or behind you then they can often become restless. They may jump up and down on their seat or push the seat in front with their legs. If this happens you have a few choices. Be polite and say nothing hoping they will stop. Have a word with the hostess to see if you can move to another seat far from children or my recommended option to ask their parents to kindly ensure they stop. I have done this many times and it’s amazing the amount of dirty looks you get from parents?
For me, flying is a real joy and something I look forward to. I spend a lot of money on flights so comfort is very high on the list of my personal priorities. I am sure a few suggestions in this article will also give you a much more enjoyable flying experience.
