Traveling can be a stressful endeavor. Packing your bags, making sure you remember your passport. Questioning if you’ve overestimated how many pairs of socks and underwear you truly need on your five-day trip. Finding travel-sized products to replace your essentials. Uh-oh. You forgot your power bank and outlet adapter for your international flight… 

The days-or weeks, depending on how on the ball you are- leading up to your flight should not be full of anxiety and nerves. Worry only causes you to forget key details and items necessary for your trip. But worry not, for this is a guide on how to travel with ease. Some airport tips for comfort could change the way you travel. 

Relax, You’re Going to be Fine!

I’ve been traveling since I was a few months old, so I would like to think I am somewhat of an expert on the matter. Through a great deal of trial and error, I have begun to perfect my travel experience. 

TSA can be overwhelming, what with the constant yelling, the ever-changing rules about what goes in the tray, and whether or not you need to remove your shoes. The expectation of taking out your computer seems to vary based on the airport. I have found that when traveling, wear shoes that you can easily remove, but that are still secure. Wearing open-toed Birkenstocks might not be the smartest or most hygienic choice to make when traveling among thousands of others. Protecting your feet from potential germy disaster can be critical to your airport well-being. 

Watching and listening to what other travelers in front of you in line can help you know what you should be prepared for. Keeping your computer in an easy-to-access part of your bag can help eleviate on the spot pressure when you approach the security belt. Most major airports won’t have you take out any toiletries, but it doesn’t hurt to also keep them all in one spot, or perhaps in a toiletry bag to make grabbing them simpler. Avoiding being pulled aside and having your bag searched is essential; getting out of the TSA line as quickly as possible is of the utmost importance. 

TSA agents are also sticklers for liquids and water bottles. Before entering the airport at all, check your bottles to make sure they’re emptied. TSA lines will sometimes have bins where you can dump any water you might have, but taking care of it beforehand can save you the distress of rummaging through your bag to retrieve it. One more thing checked off the list. 

Speaking of water bottles, hydration is key when in the air. Airplanes are known for their dehydration, and airplane stewards are stingy with their water distribution post-takeoff. If water is a necessary commodity, invest in a plastic disposable water bottle from the corner store. Empty it before you enter the airport, and then fill it up after security. 

Now, you have two water bottles at your disposal. You could, in theory, purchase a plastic water bottle at the airport, but they can run upwards of ten dollars while their identical counterparts go for two or three in the outside world. 

If water is that important to you on your long trip, it might be worth the investment. 

Airplanes are also known for their pressure, and with pressure comes swelling and discomfort. Prolonged periods of time in the air usually lead to swelling in the feet and ankles, and can be uncomfortable if you try to walk or move around. While swelling is inevitable on a plane, there are a few steps you can take to reduce or perhaps avoid it altogether. 

Along with my relaxed choice in footwear, I have discovered that wearing high socks can act as a great measure against the growth of my lower limbs, and the tightness of the socks is a perfect substitute for compression socks. We all know the proper etiquette of flying is arriving at the airport at least two to three hours early. With all the extra time you will undoubtedly have, it’s important to take advantage of it and walk around. Moving your legs and getting your blood flowing before you’re stationary for hours could alleviate some pain you might feel when you’re in the air. It might be the most instrumental airport tip for comfort listed. Opting for an eye mask can also save you from staying awake if your seatmate doesn’t sleep on the plane. You shouldn’t have to be forced to stay up; relax and sleep the flight away!

The Heavy Lifting

Packing can be a nightmare. How much do I need to bring? What is really essential? And of course, you always run the slim risk of the airline losing your bag, thus stranding you without your things. 

Every ticket gives you a carry-on and a personal bag, like a backpack or computer purse. When packing, if you’re able, pack your carry-on first. Compile all your clothes, your necessary shoes, and undergarments. Your favorite pair of pants and all the tops you plan to bring. The irreplaceable accessories and precious bags. Anything you cannot live without. 

Another airport tip for comfort is to practice lifting your carry-on a couple of times over your head and holding it there for a few moments. When you board the plane, you have to raise the bag and load it into the overhead bin. If you practice prior to and make sure you have enough strength to do so seamlessly, the boarding process will be significantly less hectic than struggling to raise the bag and holding up the line. 

You don’t want to overpack your backpack or computer bag, as it’ll strain your shoulders and back, causing back pain that could prove to be quite unpleasant on your flight. If you can put heavy computers or items into your carry-on before boarding, try to do so, to prevent any potential sores or aches. Make sure that the bag at your feet has all the necessary items you need- power bank, passport, charging cables, entertainment, etc.- so once you take off, you don’t need to worry about accessing your other bag. 

Taking-off In Peace

Flying can be stressful, with many moving parts overwhelming you. The hardest part is getting to the airport; once you’re there, you just have to fly. Set yourself up for success as much as you can in whatever way works best for you! Pro-tip: noise-cancellation headphones are a great help in blocking out pressure changes in your ears. Listening to white noise or classical music as the plane ascends and descends can help restrict the amount of pressure your ears feel.

How do you like to fly! Let us know in the comments below.