Reduce Stress When Flying

I'm always looking for ways to make life simpler, especially since the holidays have arrived. Many of you will be hopping on a plane somewhere to visit family and friends. About nine years ago, I flew in a commercial jet for the very first time. It was extremely overwhelming and I hated the airports. The parking, crowds of people, security, and a bouncy three-year-old made me want to just quit that day. I'm certain other parents can relate to my initial experience. Fast forward, with many flights under my belt, I have figured out how to minimize the hassles of flying.

I've even flown several with an infant in first class (it was that or buy two seats for comfort, which I've seen other mothers with infants do). He was amazingly quiet and slept pretty much the entire time. I've received many compliments because he wasn't fussy. I honestly believe it was a combination of being prepared and luck. Actually, I tend to receive compliments about my children's behavior when we're traveling, but I digress; this post is not about my children's behavior. I will point out that they're amazing little travelers, though.

Flying can be extremely stressful for someone who is not a seasoned traveler. At this point, I'm seasoned enough that when traveling by plane, I whip through security and long halls, filled with massive quantities of people, like an amazing race car driver. Flying takes the least amount of time to get across the country, but traveling by car is more convenient if you have a lot of luggage. Usually, the associated costs when traveling by car are more than flying, unless you're flying internationally. Obviously, flying across the country is normally completed in a single day of travel but it's a rushed experience. 

Maybe if someone had passed along some traveling advice related to flying, I wouldn't have been as frustrated, which is why I've compiled this list for others who are going to jumping on a plane. Check it out:

When to Fly

Pick a day and time that fits your needs. Typically, consultants depart the airport early on Mondays or Tuesdays. If you don't feel like waking up at 4 a.m. to catch a flight, then select a time closer to lunch. It is less to fly on Wednesday or Thursday. Sundays and Mondays are often the most expensive days for flying.

If you're not flying direct and have to land at another airport for a connection, allow about one to two hours between flights. It's a precaution if you haven't researched the flight for the frequency of delays. You can find out if the flight has a pattern of being late or is mostly on schedule. Plan accordingly.

You can find an assortment of travel deals from companies offering discounted airline tickets from different airlines. You never know what you'll find if you choose your first option. In my book, cheap airfare is an added bonus to any trip because then I'll have more to spend when I arrive at my destination.

Checking In

You can typically check in up to 24 hours prior to departing. If you check in prior to arriving, then you remove the need to stand in a long, time-consuming line to check-in and print your boarding pass. Speaking of, print your boarding pass before arriving or save the trees and download it to your mobile device. 

Most often, you can check your luggage in if you decide to check-in online. Just drop it off once you get inside the airport. Another convenience that I like utilizing is curbside check-in. If the airline you travel with offers curbside check-in, take advantage of it. There may be an additional fee for it, check with your airline for additional details.

Getting to the Airport

Try to get a ride or a cab to the airport. There are companies that will quote a set fare to pick you up and drop you off at the airport. If you're planning on being out of town for several weeks, the fare for a cab will be much less than if you park in the garage. Of course, a family member or friend is an even better idea. If you're going to park in the garage, give yourself at least 30 minutes to unload your luggage, the family, and walk over to the airport.

Security

Here's the thing: nobody likes going through security because it's a pain in the ass, but it's a necessary pain to keep everyone safe. You want to make it through as quickly as possible. Have your passport, ID, and boarding pass ready. If you're carrying on liquids, keep them in a container no larger than 3.4 oz. Some, not all, security workers make you either throw away or check in anything larger. You don't want to have to throw away that brand new bottle of expensive face wash. Just play it safe and keep carry-on liquids under 3.4 oz.

If you're traveling alone or with family, stick with simple shoes and comfortable clothing. Put your shoes in the tub along with your belt, if you're wearing one. As far as electronics are concerned, when you're going through security, the only thing they really care about is your laptop. You can keep your iPad, iPod, camera, phone, etc, tucked away in their bags. 

Also, keep your jewelry in your carry-on luggage. A few years ago, I accidentally left my jewelry in my checked-in luggage and it was stolen by someone handling the luggage. It actually made me sad instead of angry because I don't wear a lot of jewelry and the items held sentimental value. Take it from me, bring your precious items on the plane.

Also, pay attention and work with those traveling with you. There is an opportunity for theft while you're going through security—if you're not paying attention. When traveling alone, watch your belongings as they go down the belt as you're going through the scanner. Check with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) before traveling for updated information on the items you can bring on board.

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Snacks, Drinks, etc... 

In the past, if you brought an empty water bottle with you to fill up after passing through security, it was difficult because the fountains were not optimally designed. Water would spill out of your water bottle, with it hardly halfway filled! However, now, they have water bottle filling stations. I know they've been around for a little while now, but I wanted to mention them in case you've never flown or ever noticed. I love these stations. Large amounts of plastic waste are reduced because they've added these.

Bring snacks, blanket, headphones, and whatever else you might want. If you're flying first class or business class, it's free. Although, I never actually use the blanket because I bring a cardigan or a fleece for when I feel cold. I typically put the blanket behind my back with the pillow. I never use the headphones either.

Distractions such as books, iPads/iPods, or coloring books will be your savior if you're flying with children. Believe me, you won't be getting any rest or relaxation, so you should be armed with as many distractions as you can manage. Flying is boring! Children can't even sit still for five minutes, yet people expect them to simply "deal" when stuck on a plane for four hours. Distractions work like a charm. Snacks do too!

Have you ever experienced motion sickness? Commercial flights are relatively mild when compared to smaller planes. If you're extremely prone to motion sickness, take something for it, like an over the counter medication or ginger pills. Everyone's sensitivity is at different levels. It's better to be prepared than wishing for something to make the room stop swaying.

These are just some of the things I've learned throughout the years. If you have any suggestions or comments that you would like to add, please feel free to do so by leaving a comment below!

Thanks for reading and happy travels!