19 Apr TIPS FOR NERVOUS FLYERS

Although I travel by plane several times a year, both domestic and international, I’m a nervous flyer! I instantly feel sick once I’m on board, I get worried about every single noise, bump and anything else you could imagine. On our most recent trip to the USA, I had to overcome 2 x 14-hour flights, 2 x 6-hour flights and a flight in a TINY light aircraft (my biggest fear) to the Grand Canyon.

Here are some tips that get me through each flight!

• Noise-cancelling headphones – They will block out any noise from the aircraft (and kids, which is a bonus).
• Watch the cabin crew – You can read the body language of the cabin crew and how calm they are during turbulence, which is always reassuring.
• Watch a movie –  I find watching a movie keeps me busy and my mind distracted from worry about the flight.
• Try not to overthink everything – This is my biggest problem! It’s really hard not picking apart every noise, bump or movement that occurs. It’s really best to try and let it go!
• Take advantage of the alcohol on full-service flights – Do what you have to do to get through the flight! Ha!
• Let the cabin crew know you are scared –  I have had a few crew notice I was scared and they took the time to reassure me! They are great at doing this and who better to reassure you than an expert flyer.
• Speak with your GP before flying – Your GP might want to prescribe you something to relax before the flight. I have no experience with this and haven’t needed to take anything before, but I have family that do this each time they fly and it calms them for the flight.
• Talk to people around you – We’ve met so many friendly travellers on board our flights! Again, this keeps you busy while allowing you to make new friends at the same time.
• Sit near the wings or in the middle of the plane – This is my favourite spot to sit! I feel less movement here and find it “less bumpy”. Your view is also obstructed since you’re over the wings.