Updated: October 2021
We all know that flights are not the highlight of any trip. While some like to take the time on a plane to relax and prepare for their adventure, others dread the flight.
Regardless of if you’re the person who welcomes the flight time or the one who can’t wait until it’s over, there are a number of things you can do to make the journey more pleasant and comfortable.
Here are the top things to do before a flight so you’re prepared and ready for takeoff!
Pack & Don’t Forget Hygiene Products
A key component to prepping for a trip is properly packing, and for me, that means allowing ample time to do so. There’s nothing worse than scrambling to pack as you rush out the door and then forgetting a key item like your swimsuit.
Sure, you can pick up a bikini or a toothbrush in most places, but do yourself a favor and plan ahead so you aren’t rushing!
Make sure as you pack your carry-on bag with your travel essentials and comforts that everything is within the TSA guidelines and will make it through security (i.e. bottles under 3.2 oz and in a sealed baggie, no sharp objects, that sort of thing).
This is especially necessary for long-haul flights, where you want to be as comfortable as possible. Consider if you need to pack things like a hairbrush, eye mask, and that sort of thing, so you’ll be well-rested when you land.
Hygiene products make a world of difference!
There’s something magical about toothpaste and a wet washcloth—they can brighten your day. Pack a small zipper storage bag with the essentials: toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, hairbrush, and facial wipes. I love to wear a hydrating face sheet mask during the flight to land with a fresh face!
Here are some of my favorite travel-friendly products available on Amazon.
Before You Leave
Hydrate
Before a flight, I have a routine that I start the day before. My first tip: drink a ton of water throughout the day before and ensure that you’re properly hydrated.
Clean
If you’ve planned ahead, you might even have time to clean!
If I have time, this means clean the house and get it organized before going so that when I return I’m coming home to a sanctuary and rather chaos.
While cleaning the house before I go is an added bonus, another major factor here is…well, myself! I like to shower, exfoliate, shave and apply an extra thick layer of moisturizer from head to toe! This just makes me feel better for the long travel day ahead and ready to dip into the hotel pool the minute I arrive.
Dress Well
Choose your travel clothes based on comfort and destination. Airplane temperatures can be a bit chilly, so dress in loose layers and keep a simple jacket or chunky scarf in your carry-on bag.
Opt-out of belts or excessive jewelry—these can slow you down when you’re passing through security.
Choose comfy clothing so you can relax easily on your flight—imagine being crammed in a cabin for six hours in tight jeans!
If you’re landing in a destination with a different climate, have a change of clothes ready in your carry-on. If you’re headed to a tropical destination, carry sandals and shorts so you can change on arrival. If you’re landing in a destination with snow, be sure to make room for a heavy sweater.
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Avoid the Bar
Yes, alcohol during the flight can be tempting—especially if you’re traveling with your mates—but on an airplane, it’s better to minimize your consumption. Alcohol dehydrates you and makes you more susceptible to illness.
Try herbal tea instead—it helps you stay hydrated and soothes nerves.
Pack Snacks
No matter how short your flight is, chances are you’ll get hungry. Pack some easy snacks—trail mix, raisins, or jerky.
Avoid smelly cheeses or smoked fish—these can disrupt your neighbors. And don’t bring fresh fruits and vegetables—many airlines don’t permit them onboard.
Drink Liquids
Drink lots of water before and during your flight. Recycled airplane air can mess up your skin and fluid levels, and knock your body out of its natural equilibrium.
Pack a refillable water bottle or an empty container, and fill it at the fountain after you’ve passed security.
Do you have rituals you do before a flight? Let me know in the comments!
I’m too cheap to buy water too,so I usually fill a water bottle after passing through security.
Totally understand!
I love your site! As a new blonde solo traveler, you have great tips and I hope to go on one of your tours! Thanks for all the info!
Glad to hear it, Karen! And happy travels! 🙂