Ten tips for your next flight

Travel

Photo by Ross Parmly on Unsplash

I have been a flight attendant for almost a decade, and I would like to share some helpful tips that can be used next time you travel! I think many of us are anxiously waiting for a COVID-free holiday!

So here are the tips.

1. Water bottle- Some planes can board 500+ passengers. If you press the call bell for a cup of water, chances are every other call bell is asking for the same. If you bring a water bottle, you skip this rotation of call bells! Fill it up at the airport before you board and when you get up to stretch your legs, ask a flight attendant to fill your water bottle. It’s important to stay hydrated when you fly!
2. A Collapsible Hot Cup- This might be a little extra, but I find it very helpful. I pack a few of my favorite herbal tea sachets and have some “me time” as I watch a movie. Again, when you stretch your legs, ask the friendly flight attendant to fill your cup with hot water. I use a coffee cup from Stojo. Love it.
3. Decrease Alcohol consumption- I know it looks like I'm a “party pooper,” but let me tell you why this is important. When we fly, we experience cabin pressure of 6–8,000 feet. We can comfortably travel at this altitude, but don’t forget what’s happening to your body; it's working extra hard to provide oxygen, especially if you aren’t used to these altitudes. It’s just like climbing a mountain; you may feel dehydrated, and drinking caffeinated drinks with a combination of alcohol doesn’t help. It’s okay to have a drink, but take your time and accompany it with food and water. You are going to feel tipsy much quicker than on the ground.
4. Pack a sweater- Aircrafts are cold and are purposely kept at a low temperature. Instead of freezing (even if you are going to a sunny destination), prepare and pack a sweater!
5. Pack socks- Not all airlines provide socks. Think ahead and pack socks to keep your feet warm. Your flight experience will be that much better if you are at a comfortable temperature.
6. Snacks- yes, bring food. You will not starve on the plane; you would be surprised by how much food we carry, but remember the menu is set. It’s challenging to accommodate special food requirements, so prepare. Check if your airline can provide a meal with your particular needs and bring your ideal snacks for backup.
7. Eye drops- Refresh your eyes. You may be connecting and passing through many time zones. Eye drops will hydrate your eyes and give you that boost to wake up, (plus it will help with that sleepy eye redness).
8. Pack a Pen- We live in the digital era, but we still have to write occasionally. Sometimes you have to fill out the random customs form, and the only thing stopping you from getting ahead to the carousel is a pen. Don’t let a lack of a pen take away from your holiday time.
9. Entertainment- I suggest you download one or all of the following: a series, a podcast, an audiobook, or an ebook. There is nothing more boring than being wide awake staring at the back of a seat. Most airlines offer movies, but what if you are in that one seat that doesn’t work for whatever reasons? We can reset your TV, but if an engineer is needed… it's not going to happen until we land!

My last and final piece of advice is to remember that flight attendants wear many hats when working. We are the first line of defense, so if we ask passengers to comply with specific rules, it's not because we like being bossy and mean.

It’s simply for your safety.

I hope these tips help you on your next flight! Happy traveling!