Updated: October 2022
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, most dread the time they have to spend on an airplane in order to get to their destination! And some, like myself, have fears about flying.
Regardless of whether you welcome a flight 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!
Packing Your Carry-On Bag
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 that as you pack your carry-on bag with your travel essentials, 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, sleeping aid, 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 facial wipe—they can truly 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 cleaning the house and getting it organized before going so that when I return I’m coming home to a sanctuary, rather than 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—granola bars, trail mix, raisins, or jerky. I personally always try to avoid bringing any items with nuts, in case someone on board has an airborne nut allergy!
Avoid smelly cheeses, fish, and other strong-smelling foods—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.
Helpful Tip
As travelers around the globe are dealing with way more lost and delayed luggage than ever before, I highly recommend investing in Apple Air Tags to be able to track the location of your items at all times. You can attach them to your keys, backpack, or camera bags, and even slip one into your checked luggage for flights!
Do you have rituals you do before a flight? Let me know in the comments!
I’ve flown 100’s of times,from Cessnas and DC-3’s to 737’maxs.
There is nothing necessary,except an aisle seat and a walk every 1/2 hour
for some water or coffee.
Oftentimes those planes without all the extra perks offer less expensive fares!
I always forget to drink lots of water preflight. Thanks for the reminder.
When flying from Iceland to Toronto, the airline didn’t offer free water…you had to pay for a bottle and I was too cheap to buy one. NTS- if you’re going to Iceland, make sure to fill your water bottle!
Good tip, Cristine!