The post How to Prepare for a Flight When You Don’t Love Flying appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Whilst no one wants to predict that they’ll be stuck in the departures lounge for an extra five hours due to delays, unfortunately this is a reality which is worth planning for. Make sure you have comfortable clothes, extra layers for warmth, water, snacks, and something to distract you other than your phone. If you’re already feeling a bit nauseous from pre-flight nerves, staring at a phone screen will only increase these symptoms. Bring a great book, a mini board game or even a journal so you can jot down your thoughts as you wait.
One of the biggest causes of stress and worry can be sitting cramped up in a plane seat for several hours, next to people you don’t know. If you’re traveling alone and can afford it, it may be worth paying for extra legroom, or for seats in your preferred section of the plane. If paying extra isn’t an option, bring a travel pillow so you can support your neck if you’re trying to sleep, and consider an eye mask and ear plugs too – if you don’t enjoy flying, sometimes the best way to deal with it is to try and nap through it.
One of the biggest causes of flight stress is having a strict deadline at the other end of the flight. Unless absolutely unavoidable, try and allow yourself enough time to get from the airport to your accommodation or your next mode of transport without stress. Nothing is worse than standing in a customs queue, sweating because you have five minutes to make the train into the city centre. Map out each part of the journey, and leave yourself at least half an hour of spare time to get to each transfer.
Flying may not be your favorite activity, but with these simple adjustments, you can make the whole experience a lot more enjoyable for yourself.
The post How to Prepare for a Flight When You Don’t Love Flying appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post 3 Spots to Clean When You Get on a Plane appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Used as everything from a surface for meals to a makeshift pillow for naps, tray tables come in contact with a variety of items that make them hotbeds for harmful bacteria. In fact, one study showed that tray tables have as much as eight times more bacteria than other high-touch parts of the plane. While some airlines do sanitize them between flights, there’s no harm in giving your table a once-over with some disinfectant wipes upon boarding—just to be safe.
Unlike tray tables, seat belt buckles are one area that every passenger will have to touch at least twice, and with limited time between flights, cleaning crews aren’t always able to thoroughly sanitize each individual buckle. Give yours a wipe with some disinfectant, then use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to kill any germs you may have picked up while buckling.
It’s true that most of us aren’t grabbing our own arm and headrests throughout the flight, but that doesn’t mean they’re as clean as they could be. Many passengers will hold onto these parts for balance during boarding or use them as leverage when putting their bags in overhead bins. Wherever your seat is, it can’t hurt to disinfect them, though aisle seats do tend to receive the most traffic.
The post 3 Spots to Clean When You Get on a Plane appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Tips To Make Flying With Pets Easier appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Before boarding your flight, it’s important to know that your pet is in good health. This will, after all, limit the likelihood of your pet encountering health and other issues during the flight. Make sure to book a checkup with a vet you trust in order to make sure that your pet is in a good condition to travel.
If flying with a dog or another pet that sleeps in a kennel, make sure that your furry pal is well-adjusted to their temporary home. This will make their flight more comfortable. Make sure to fit the kennel with a comfortable bed as well as pads and pack some of their favorite toys.
Once you arrive at your departure gate, ask the airline staff if you and your pet can board early. Boarding early can help you to acclimatize your pet to a new environment and keep them calm, thereby improving their flight experience upon takeoff.
The post Tips To Make Flying With Pets Easier appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post 3 Things to Avoid Doing While Flying appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Generally, asking people to swap seats with you is frustrating, especially if those people booked or even paid for those seats in advance. Unless there is a seriously important reason why you cannot sit in your pre-assigned seat, it’s better to rather remain where you were placed.
Sometimes, when the flight crew calls passengers to the boarding gate, people rush to get to the front of the line – a chaotic sight to behold. Ultimately, being first in line makes no difference, as everyone will get on the place regardless. Rather than joining in the frenzy, exercise patience and save yourself from unnecessary stress in the process.
As you know, a plane is an enclosed space, making smells all the more noticeable. With this in mind, it’s better to rather not eat strong-smelling food on board. Stick to snacks with scents that are less noticeable or maybe wait for the airline’s meals to come around.
The post 3 Things to Avoid Doing While Flying appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Here’s What You Need To Know About Flight Credits appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Oftentimes, airlines have a flight credit expiration policy, meaning that you’ll only be able to use them on a flight for a limited time. Make sure to confirm the expiration policy with your airline in particular so that you don’t lose out.
While some airlines allow you to pay for your flight using flight credits online, others require you to call a customer service number in order to do so. If you booked your flight through a travel agent, you may need your travel agent to arrange the flight using credits on your behalf. Once again, doing your research on the airline concerned is vital.
The post Here’s What You Need To Know About Flight Credits appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post This Little Trick Will Make Long-Haul Flights Way More Comfortable appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>But, there’s a solution. And it’s actually relatively simple. Stick with us for this one—all you need is a sock and two tennis balls.
Place the balls inside the sock and put it behind you, somewhere between the bottom of your shoulder blade and the top of your hip. The makeshift device will apply pressure to the middle of your back which often tenses up from sitting for too long.
The reason that the tennis ball sock works is because it mimics acupressure. Similar to acupuncture, the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practice uses the fingertips to apply pressure, as opposed to needles.
Studies have shown that acupressure can significantly reduce back pain, muscle tension, and even motion sickness. According to TCM, the technique releases energy (qi) that is trapped along pathways in the body known as meridians.
Not only can you use the ball-filled sock on plane rides, but it also works fantastically for road trips, too. So go on, plan that journey cross-country!
The post This Little Trick Will Make Long-Haul Flights Way More Comfortable appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Tips For Flying With Kids appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Once you get your kids settled into their seats, surprise them with some new toys. Not only will this provide them with something to play with to pass the time, but the surprise on its own will distract them from the reality that they don’t have much place to run around.
One form of entertainment that airlines provide to parents and children alike is the in-flight entertainment screen, filled with movies and TV shows. If you plan on letting your child watch TV while you fly, be sure to pack some comfortable earphones for them so that they can watch in comfort, especially over such a long journey.
Children need nutrition thought the day, meaning that the minimal snacks and meals that airlines provide throughout the flight may not be enough for your little ones. Make sure to pack enough small snacks and fruit and vegetables so that your kids get the food they need.
The post Tips For Flying With Kids appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post How to Get Through Airport Security as Quickly as Possible appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>You won’t be able to get through security at all without your passport and boarding pass, so double check that you’ve got them and any other necessary documents before you even leave for the airport. Keep everything in a designated, easy-to-access place so you don’t have to waste time digging through your bag at the security checkpoint.
While exact rules and regulations for security screenings do vary a bit by country, there are also certain global requirements that are standard in most airports. In general, liquids in any form should not exceed 3.4 ounces, and electronics need to be removed from carry-on bags before going through the conveyor belt. Adhering to these requirements by packing only approved items and keeping them in places that are easy to reach will minimize the need for additional inspections and allow you to get through security more quickly.
If you’re a frequent flyer, consider investing in programs such as TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, which offer expedited screening for pre-approved travelers. You’ll be able to skip long lines and breeze through security without having to remove your shoes or take out electronics, cutting your time at security down to as little as five minutes. PreCheck costs $78 for 5 years, while Global Entry requires a one-time fee of $100.
The post How to Get Through Airport Security as Quickly as Possible appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Tips to Conquer a Fear of Flying appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Like we said, facts and figures are unlikely to make much of a difference when you’re in the middle of a panic attack at peak altitude. However, reading up on the crash history and safety features of your plane in advance may help curb anxious feelings before they start. Planes go through many rounds of very rigorous testing before they’re deemed safe, and turbulence alone has never caused an aircraft to crash.
Flight attendants are required by the airlines that employ them to undergo regular training on the safety features of the plane as well as what to do should an emergency arise. They’re well-versed in how to support passengers throughout all phases of flying and will make a point to check in on you should you need it. If you find yourself feeling especially anxious or uncomfortable, tell a crew member as soon as possible.
Doing what you can to keep your body calm and physically comfortable is the best way to show your nervous system that you’re in a safe situation. Wear cozy clothes, bring a “security object,” such as a familiar blanket, and practice techniques like 4-7-8 breathing throughout your flight to reduce anxiety.
The post Tips to Conquer a Fear of Flying appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post This is How Passengers Really Feel About Plane Etiquette appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Feet on the Ground, Please
We know, plane seats are not the most comfortable. You may find yourself twisting and squirming to find a position that works, but don’t put your feet up on the seat in front of you. 68% of respondents are against the practise, while a further 24% believe that your socks should stay on at all times.
No Phone Zone
Humans are addicted to their phones, so the desire to turn yours on as soon as you land is understandable. That said, 69% of passengers find it rude to make phone calls between landing and leaving the plane.
Be Kind, Recline
Reclining your plane seat is one of the most controversial topics. There have actually been court cases about it. Overall, 88% of people feel that reclining is okay to do, while a third believe that it should only be done in the case of a long or overnight flight.
The post This is How Passengers Really Feel About Plane Etiquette appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post How to Prepare for a Flight When You Don’t Love Flying appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Whilst no one wants to predict that they’ll be stuck in the departures lounge for an extra five hours due to delays, unfortunately this is a reality which is worth planning for. Make sure you have comfortable clothes, extra layers for warmth, water, snacks, and something to distract you other than your phone. If you’re already feeling a bit nauseous from pre-flight nerves, staring at a phone screen will only increase these symptoms. Bring a great book, a mini board game or even a journal so you can jot down your thoughts as you wait.
One of the biggest causes of stress and worry can be sitting cramped up in a plane seat for several hours, next to people you don’t know. If you’re traveling alone and can afford it, it may be worth paying for extra legroom, or for seats in your preferred section of the plane. If paying extra isn’t an option, bring a travel pillow so you can support your neck if you’re trying to sleep, and consider an eye mask and ear plugs too – if you don’t enjoy flying, sometimes the best way to deal with it is to try and nap through it.
One of the biggest causes of flight stress is having a strict deadline at the other end of the flight. Unless absolutely unavoidable, try and allow yourself enough time to get from the airport to your accommodation or your next mode of transport without stress. Nothing is worse than standing in a customs queue, sweating because you have five minutes to make the train into the city centre. Map out each part of the journey, and leave yourself at least half an hour of spare time to get to each transfer.
Flying may not be your favorite activity, but with these simple adjustments, you can make the whole experience a lot more enjoyable for yourself.
The post How to Prepare for a Flight When You Don’t Love Flying appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post 3 Spots to Clean When You Get on a Plane appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Used as everything from a surface for meals to a makeshift pillow for naps, tray tables come in contact with a variety of items that make them hotbeds for harmful bacteria. In fact, one study showed that tray tables have as much as eight times more bacteria than other high-touch parts of the plane. While some airlines do sanitize them between flights, there’s no harm in giving your table a once-over with some disinfectant wipes upon boarding—just to be safe.
Unlike tray tables, seat belt buckles are one area that every passenger will have to touch at least twice, and with limited time between flights, cleaning crews aren’t always able to thoroughly sanitize each individual buckle. Give yours a wipe with some disinfectant, then use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to kill any germs you may have picked up while buckling.
It’s true that most of us aren’t grabbing our own arm and headrests throughout the flight, but that doesn’t mean they’re as clean as they could be. Many passengers will hold onto these parts for balance during boarding or use them as leverage when putting their bags in overhead bins. Wherever your seat is, it can’t hurt to disinfect them, though aisle seats do tend to receive the most traffic.
The post 3 Spots to Clean When You Get on a Plane appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Tips To Make Flying With Pets Easier appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Before boarding your flight, it’s important to know that your pet is in good health. This will, after all, limit the likelihood of your pet encountering health and other issues during the flight. Make sure to book a checkup with a vet you trust in order to make sure that your pet is in a good condition to travel.
If flying with a dog or another pet that sleeps in a kennel, make sure that your furry pal is well-adjusted to their temporary home. This will make their flight more comfortable. Make sure to fit the kennel with a comfortable bed as well as pads and pack some of their favorite toys.
Once you arrive at your departure gate, ask the airline staff if you and your pet can board early. Boarding early can help you to acclimatize your pet to a new environment and keep them calm, thereby improving their flight experience upon takeoff.
The post Tips To Make Flying With Pets Easier appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post 3 Things to Avoid Doing While Flying appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Generally, asking people to swap seats with you is frustrating, especially if those people booked or even paid for those seats in advance. Unless there is a seriously important reason why you cannot sit in your pre-assigned seat, it’s better to rather remain where you were placed.
Sometimes, when the flight crew calls passengers to the boarding gate, people rush to get to the front of the line – a chaotic sight to behold. Ultimately, being first in line makes no difference, as everyone will get on the place regardless. Rather than joining in the frenzy, exercise patience and save yourself from unnecessary stress in the process.
As you know, a plane is an enclosed space, making smells all the more noticeable. With this in mind, it’s better to rather not eat strong-smelling food on board. Stick to snacks with scents that are less noticeable or maybe wait for the airline’s meals to come around.
The post 3 Things to Avoid Doing While Flying appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Here’s What You Need To Know About Flight Credits appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Oftentimes, airlines have a flight credit expiration policy, meaning that you’ll only be able to use them on a flight for a limited time. Make sure to confirm the expiration policy with your airline in particular so that you don’t lose out.
While some airlines allow you to pay for your flight using flight credits online, others require you to call a customer service number in order to do so. If you booked your flight through a travel agent, you may need your travel agent to arrange the flight using credits on your behalf. Once again, doing your research on the airline concerned is vital.
The post Here’s What You Need To Know About Flight Credits appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post This Little Trick Will Make Long-Haul Flights Way More Comfortable appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>But, there’s a solution. And it’s actually relatively simple. Stick with us for this one—all you need is a sock and two tennis balls.
Place the balls inside the sock and put it behind you, somewhere between the bottom of your shoulder blade and the top of your hip. The makeshift device will apply pressure to the middle of your back which often tenses up from sitting for too long.
The reason that the tennis ball sock works is because it mimics acupressure. Similar to acupuncture, the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practice uses the fingertips to apply pressure, as opposed to needles.
Studies have shown that acupressure can significantly reduce back pain, muscle tension, and even motion sickness. According to TCM, the technique releases energy (qi) that is trapped along pathways in the body known as meridians.
Not only can you use the ball-filled sock on plane rides, but it also works fantastically for road trips, too. So go on, plan that journey cross-country!
The post This Little Trick Will Make Long-Haul Flights Way More Comfortable appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Tips For Flying With Kids appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Once you get your kids settled into their seats, surprise them with some new toys. Not only will this provide them with something to play with to pass the time, but the surprise on its own will distract them from the reality that they don’t have much place to run around.
One form of entertainment that airlines provide to parents and children alike is the in-flight entertainment screen, filled with movies and TV shows. If you plan on letting your child watch TV while you fly, be sure to pack some comfortable earphones for them so that they can watch in comfort, especially over such a long journey.
Children need nutrition thought the day, meaning that the minimal snacks and meals that airlines provide throughout the flight may not be enough for your little ones. Make sure to pack enough small snacks and fruit and vegetables so that your kids get the food they need.
The post Tips For Flying With Kids appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post How to Get Through Airport Security as Quickly as Possible appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>You won’t be able to get through security at all without your passport and boarding pass, so double check that you’ve got them and any other necessary documents before you even leave for the airport. Keep everything in a designated, easy-to-access place so you don’t have to waste time digging through your bag at the security checkpoint.
While exact rules and regulations for security screenings do vary a bit by country, there are also certain global requirements that are standard in most airports. In general, liquids in any form should not exceed 3.4 ounces, and electronics need to be removed from carry-on bags before going through the conveyor belt. Adhering to these requirements by packing only approved items and keeping them in places that are easy to reach will minimize the need for additional inspections and allow you to get through security more quickly.
If you’re a frequent flyer, consider investing in programs such as TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, which offer expedited screening for pre-approved travelers. You’ll be able to skip long lines and breeze through security without having to remove your shoes or take out electronics, cutting your time at security down to as little as five minutes. PreCheck costs $78 for 5 years, while Global Entry requires a one-time fee of $100.
The post How to Get Through Airport Security as Quickly as Possible appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Tips to Conquer a Fear of Flying appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Like we said, facts and figures are unlikely to make much of a difference when you’re in the middle of a panic attack at peak altitude. However, reading up on the crash history and safety features of your plane in advance may help curb anxious feelings before they start. Planes go through many rounds of very rigorous testing before they’re deemed safe, and turbulence alone has never caused an aircraft to crash.
Flight attendants are required by the airlines that employ them to undergo regular training on the safety features of the plane as well as what to do should an emergency arise. They’re well-versed in how to support passengers throughout all phases of flying and will make a point to check in on you should you need it. If you find yourself feeling especially anxious or uncomfortable, tell a crew member as soon as possible.
Doing what you can to keep your body calm and physically comfortable is the best way to show your nervous system that you’re in a safe situation. Wear cozy clothes, bring a “security object,” such as a familiar blanket, and practice techniques like 4-7-8 breathing throughout your flight to reduce anxiety.
The post Tips to Conquer a Fear of Flying appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post This is How Passengers Really Feel About Plane Etiquette appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Feet on the Ground, Please
We know, plane seats are not the most comfortable. You may find yourself twisting and squirming to find a position that works, but don’t put your feet up on the seat in front of you. 68% of respondents are against the practise, while a further 24% believe that your socks should stay on at all times.
No Phone Zone
Humans are addicted to their phones, so the desire to turn yours on as soon as you land is understandable. That said, 69% of passengers find it rude to make phone calls between landing and leaving the plane.
Be Kind, Recline
Reclining your plane seat is one of the most controversial topics. There have actually been court cases about it. Overall, 88% of people feel that reclining is okay to do, while a third believe that it should only be done in the case of a long or overnight flight.
The post This is How Passengers Really Feel About Plane Etiquette appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>