Whether flying is a rarity or a regular occurrence for you, these tips will help you stay comfortable on your next flight and visit to the airport.
Avoid Jet Lag:
Drinking plenty of water and starting your trip well rested helps avoid jet lag. Try getting some sleep during your flight and alternate with walking around to prevent a lack of circulation. Getting at least 8 hours of sleep before arriving at the airport is going to be your first defense against jet lag. Staying hydrated is extremely important, the average air cabin contains 10-20 percent humidity, while the average indoor humidity is 30-65 percent, according to Everyday Health. Lower levels of humidity can cause dehydration, making you feel tired and run down, beat this by drinking at least 8 ounces of water per hour during the flight. Sitting for long periods of time isn’t the best for your body, make sure you stretch your legs and get yourself moving every couple of hours to improve circulation and regulate blood pressure. While jet lag can’t be avoided completely, these small acts can make your trip more enjoyable by lessening its effects.
Eating Well:
Sticking to a healthy lifestyle while traveling can be a challenge, however doing so will make your body feel much better. Choosing healthier options at restaurants and convenience stores and even packing some of your own snacks can keep you on track and energized. The TSA approves granola bars, crackers, whole fruits and berries as well as dried fruits and cereals for carry-on bags. Even hummus and dips if they are less than 3.4 ounces. Major airports are known to have many restaurants at each terminal, which gives you variety, however they are usually catered to be fast and not the healthiest. Try focusing on menu options that are higher in protein and lower in carbs and fat. Most places will offer grilled instead of fried chicken and multigrain or whole wheat instead of white breads. Oatmeal and egg white wraps are a great choice for an on-the-go breakfast. Most airlines will offer free snacks that are usually high in sugar, salt and carbs. Skip these snacks and opt for a healthier choice such as a protein bar, fruit salad or unsalted nuts. Making sure your body has the nutrients it needs to function properly will leave you feeling ready to start your day after landing.
Avoid Getting Sick:
Nothing ruins a trip more than catching a virus or a cold, taking these precautions will help prevent getting sick so you can make the most of your time away. You may have heard this before but we are saying it again, stay away from the tap water. The Wall Street Journal conducted a study of 14 different international and domestic flight’s water, their results revealed traces of Salmonella and tiny insect eggs. Make sure you’re drinking bottled water on board, ice cubes, coffee and tea should also be avoided as well as the water in the restrooms, use hand sanitizer instead and wait until you land to brush your teeth! Unless you are boarding the first flight of the day most airlines will have already used blankets and pillows, it is best to bring your own. Before touching your seatbelt and tray tables make sure you use sanitizing wipes and avoid eating directly off it. Scientists have found sitting in the aisle seat puts you closer to passengers walking to and from the restroom, putting you more at risk of being exposed to germs. People have a tendency of touching or holding onto the aisle seats as they walk up and down, allowing germs to spread. Using the air vent above your seat to capture up to 99.9% of bacteria and viruses in the cabin air filter, using a saline nasal spray and making sure you keep all personal items close and avoid the back-seat pocket will prevent picking up excess bacteria.
Stay safe and enjoy your next flight!