Happy summer flying everyone!

I’ve had a pretty interesting summer this far with working up in the “friendly” skies. Summers tend to be the busiest for airlines, which means busy airports and oversold flights galore! While working, I’ve noticed one too many things repeatedly by witnessing and interacting with passengers, that I figured, why not write a blog on tips/tricks to flying? *secretly hopes that people will read this to make my work life (and your flight) easier*

So if you have any upcoming flights, especially those that are long hauls and want to make sure you have an enjoyable flight, keep on reading.

1. In-flight essentials

If you’re taking an especially long flight somewhere, it’s always best to pack accordingly because many times planes don’t have blankets/pillows and/or run out of food to purchase. In my experience with flying as a passenger, I make sure to always pack these items into my carry on bag: Neck pillow, blanket or sweater (bc planes get freezing cold at times and no it’s not your flight attendants fault that you decided to wear a crop top Becky. True story) and probably the most important item, SNACKS. My go-to snacks are Thai Cashews and Sesame Seed Almonds from Trader Joe’s. Also, bring an empty reusable water bottle to fill once you get through security because hydration is key. Planes tend to dehydrate you immensely, which causes some people to feel faint or dizzy. Bring your own headphones too because they cost money on planes and are usually terrible quality.

2. How to sleep on a flight

Not doable. If you can sleep sitting down, you probably have narcolepsy. JUST KIDDING. I used to be the type that couldn’t sleep on a plane, but after packing my own pillow, blanket AND melatonin, I’ve been sleeping like a newborn baby. If I have a flight that’s over 4+ long or especially a red eye flight, I take 1-2 3mg melatonin gummies, (bc they’re tastier than regular pills). I take Vitafusion Beauty Sleep because they taste good and work like a charm. Please stay away from the crazy stuff like Ambien. I’ve had way too many instances where people mix it with alcohol thinking it will put them into a sleep coma, but instead, they faint on the plane aisle and turn pale blue and freak everyone out.

3. Get to your flight on time

And by “on time” I mean, at LEAST 2 hours beforehand. Unless you’re the type that enjoys the occasional tachycardia and running on panic mode, then disregard this tip, otherwise pay close attention. Airport traffic is just as bad the at 405 freeway in Los Angeles, maybe even worse! Just when you think you’re in the clear, you walk into the airport and see that the airport security line is just as long the Nile river. (Disclaimer: my exaggerations are only slightly off). Play it safe, get to the airport ahead of time, so you don’t have to sprint to your gate.

4. Calming anxiety

I’ve encountered one too many passengers who are first time flyers or are just nervous flyers in general. Believe it or not, that used to be me too, before this job. One of the things that has helped soothe my nerves the most is a good book. As silly as it sounds, reading actually gets my mind off the plane. If you’re not a reader, download some shows on Netflix, before your flight, and watch them in the air. If you don’t like either of the above, try making a playlist on Spotify (and download it as well) with calming music. I have one linked here that I named, “Music for the Soul” that is my usual go-to on my flights. Music for the Soul

5. Meditate

Whether it’s self, or guided, meditating before a flight can help calm you tremendously. You don’t have to be a yogi or religious, you just have to be able to take a few moments to yourself to breathe deeply and reflect. Inhale positive thoughts and exhale and fears. Now if you’re a newbie, there’s a great meditation app that helps called Headspace that offers short meditations for emergencies, which is neat and convenient.

6. Be Kind

Whether it’s to your flight attendants or seat neighbors, be kind. You’re all on some kind of personal journey together, whether you realize it or not, and you’re all slightly terrified of being in a metal tube 30,000 feet in the air. At the end of the day, if something were to occur in-flight, we’d all have to work together as a team to get out as quickly as possible. I truly think people forget this sometimes because I’ve witnessed one too many occurrences where passengers fight over elbow room, or luggage space and other insignificant things. Last but not least, guys, please don’t forget to use your manners. Please and thank you go a long way!

Thank you all for reading along and helping me vent a little bit.

Sincerely,

Your friendly neighborhood stewardess.