Ever since humans took it upon themselves to contend the skies with birds they have been moaning about how uncomfortable it is to leave the ground.
How to make flying more bearable, comfortable, and easier?
Flights and staying in airports in general are stressful activities. Part of that stress comes from safety concerns of being stuck in a metal box with a bunch of strangers (some of them peculiar and unpleasant) and flying at ridiculous attitudes. But the list of concerns when moving from place to place is long and relatable.
How noisy is it to be flying in a typical airplane?
A typical airplane cabin has a sound level of about 80-85 decibels, which can be uncomfortable and cause hearing damage over time. The level of noise in a typical airplane cabin is around 80-85 decibels, which is considered to be in the “loud” range. For comparison, normal conversation is usually around 60 decibels and a vacuum cleaner is around 70 decibels. A sound level of 80 decibels or higher can cause hearing damage over time if exposure is prolonged. So, while the noise level inside an airplane cabin is not necessarily hazardous, it can be uncomfortable and stress-inducing for some people.
What are the main concerns for people when flying?
Flying can be stressful for other several reasons:
- Safety concerns: The fear of turbulence, technical issues, or other safety incidents can be a source of stress for some people.
- Confined spaces: Being confined to a small seat in close proximity to other passengers can be uncomfortable and stressful.
- Lack of control: Being at the mercy of the flight crew and flight schedule can leave people feeling helpless and stressed.
- Time pressure: The time constraints of flying, such as making connecting flights or getting to a destination on time, can create a sense of urgency and stress.
- Health and comfort: Changes in cabin pressure and air quality can cause discomfort and affect physical health, adding to the stress of flying.
- Crowds: Dealing with crowds of people at airports and on airplanes can be overwhelming for some people.
- Financial stress: The cost of air travel, especially for long trips, can be a source of financial stress for many people.
Overall, flying can be stressful due to a combination of various physical, psychological, and practical factors that can impact a person’s well-being during the flight.
There are a few things we can do to make flying more bearable, or pleasant even!
- Use earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to block out airplane noise.
- Chew gum to alleviate ear pressure during takeoff and landing.
- Bring a neck pillow for comfortable sleeping.
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
- Pack healthy snacks and stay hydrated during the flight.
- Choose an aisle seat for more room and easy access to the bathroom.
- Use a blanket or jacket to stay warm.
- Bring a book, magazine, or entertainment device to pass the time.
- Take advantage of any in-flight amenities like movies or games.
- Stretch your legs and move around the cabin to prevent stiffness and improve circulation.
- Use earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to block out airplane noise.
Earplugs and noise-canceling headphones work by reducing the amount of outside noise that reaches the ear. Earplugs typically use soft foam to physically block out noise, while noise-canceling headphones use active noise reduction technology to cancel out noise by generating sound waves that are the exact opposite of the outside noise. This effectively reduces the amount of noise that reaches the ear, making the cabin sound much quieter.
Reduced noise waves allow the person to relax and in some cases go so far as to get sleep. Even non-noise-canceling headphones would help to reduce the level of stress by reducing the level of noise that reaches the inner ear.
Reducing the levels of excess, uncomfortable, and perhaps monotone noise can have a beneficial effect on sleep. Feeling rested and less stressed does allow a person to relax a bit.
- Chewing gum during takeoff and landing helps with changes in air pressure and clears breathing.
Chewing gum during takeoff and landing can help alleviate ear pressure by increasing the flow of saliva in the mouth and encouraging swallowing. Swallowing helps to regulate the pressure in the middle ear, which can help to prevent discomfort during changes in altitude. The ear pops become less unpleasant.
The act of chewing and swallowing can also stimulate the muscles that control the opening and closing of the eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the throat. By keeping the eustachian tubes open, chewing gum can help to equalize the pressure in the middle ear, reducing the discomfort associated with ear pressure changes.
Chewing helps to bring more blood to the mouth and nose area, helping with congestion. There could be a similar effect of menthol on sinuses and breathing.
Chewing gum with menthol can have a cooling and soothing effect on the nose and throat, which can help to relieve nasal congestion. However, it is not clear whether menthol in chewing gum can significantly clear the sinuses and allow breathing through the nose.
It is important to note that while chewing gum can help alleviate ear pressure during takeoff and landing, it may not be suitable for everyone, and it may not be effective in all cases.
- Neck pillow
A neck pillow helps with air travel by providing support to the neck and head while sitting in an upright position in an airplane seat. This can help to maintain proper alignment of the spine, reducing strain on the neck and shoulder muscles, and promoting better blood flow to the brain. By supporting the neck and head, a neck pillow can reduce discomfort during long flights and help you arrive at your destination feeling more rested and refreshed.
Does a neck pillow help with sleep?
Using a neck pillow on an airplane can help some people sleep better during flights. However, there is limited scientific data to support this claim. Sleeping in an upright position, as on an airplane seat, can be challenging for many people, even with the use of a neck pillow. Factors such as noise, lights, and cramped seating conditions can also impact one’s ability to sleep on a flight.
Some studies suggest that neck pillows can improve comfort and reduce neck pain during air travel, but there is limited research on their impact on sleep quality. Ultimately, the effectiveness of a neck pillow in helping someone sleep on an airplane may vary depending on the individual and the specific conditions of the flight.
One thing that might be beneficial is a continuous line of support from the spine to the back of the head, which should, in theory, be beneficial to relaxing neck muscles, allowing one to relax and pursue sleep.
Problems with larger neck pillows.
A larger neck pillow might have the opposite effect of tensing up the neck muscles, so choose one or modify the one you have to be comfortable for your particular posture and neck. Everyone is different but you can practice on any surface, even on the floor.
- Wearing comfortable, non-constricting, loose clothing
Wearing comfortable, non-constricting, loose clothing can help the body circulate blood, ventilate, and reach relaxation by allowing for freedom of movement and proper circulation. Tight or restrictive clothing can impede circulation and cause discomfort, particularly during long periods of sitting, such as during an airplane flight.
Loose clothing allows for proper blood flow, which can help to prevent swelling, cramping, and fatigue. It also promotes ventilation, helping to regulate body temperature and preventing overheating. Additionally, wearing loose clothing can promote a sense of comfort and relaxation, making it easier for the body to reach a state of rest and reducing stress levels. On a flight where stress is so profound, a little bit of help can make the difference between resting and getting aggravated.
In the context of air travel, wearing comfortable clothing can make a significant difference in promoting physical comfort and relaxation, which can help to improve overall well-being and reduce the negative effects of long-haul flights.
- Pack healthy snacks and stay hydrated during the flight.
Stress requires us to burn through a lot of energy by being alert as a response to stress. Eating healthy snacks while flying can have a positive impact on stress levels and overall well-being. Consuming nutritious food can provide the body with essential nutrients, helping to maintain energy levels and mental clarity.
Chewing and eating can also have a calming effect by promoting the release of feel-good hormones, such as serotonin and dopamine, which can help to reduce stress levels. The act of chewing also stimulates the production of saliva, which can help to neutralize harmful bacteria in the mouth and improve oral health.
Additionally, eating healthy snacks can provide a distraction from the stress and discomfort of flying, giving you something to focus on besides the flight itself. Choosing snacks that are low in sugar and high in protein and fiber can help to stabilize blood sugar levels, providing sustained energy and reducing the risk of sugar crashes and hunger pangs.
In conclusion, incorporating healthy snacks into your travel routine can help to improve overall well-being and reduce stress levels during air travel.
- Choose an aisle seat for more room and easy access to the bathroom or a window seat for less disturbance.
The choice between an aisle seat and a window seat on an airplane is a personal preference and often depends on individual needs and preferences.
Pros of an aisle seat:
Increased mobility: An aisle seat provides easier access to the aisle and the restroom, making it ideal for people who need to stretch their legs or get up frequently. Stretching out is easier, at times as the aisle area is there for you to exploit until someone needs it.
Increased stimuli: Long-haul flights in particular become tedious and seeing what is happening in front of you and behind you is a great distraction. The other seats besides the aisle limit what you can see and that may be stressful for some people.
Quick exits: An aisle seat can also be advantageous in case of an emergency, as it allows for a quicker exit from the aircraft.
Cons of an aisle seat:
Disturbance: Sitting in an aisle seat can result in more disruptions, such as people walking by and overhead bins being opened and closed, making it less ideal for people who want to sleep or work during the flight.
Pros of a window seat:
Views: A window seat provides a view outside the aircraft, making it ideal for people who enjoy the scenic views or want to take photos.
Privacy: A window seat can also provide a greater sense of privacy and solitude, making it ideal for people who want to sleep or work without being disturbed. The additional space to rest the head by the window is also beneficial.
Cons of a window seat:
Limited mobility: A window seat requires climbing over the other passengers to reach the aisle, making it less ideal for people who need to get up frequently.
Ultimately, the choice between an aisle seat and a window seat depends on the individual’s needs and preferences. Comfort levels may vary, as some people may prefer the added mobility of an aisle seat, while others may prefer the privacy and views of a window seat.
Which is better an aisle or a window seat?
The distinct options of the aisle and a window seat have their own pros and cons, but it really depends on the kind of flight and the personal preferences of the individual. What most people can agree on is that the middle seat is the worst.
- Use a blanket or jacket to stay warm.
It can be cold on an aircraft because the cabin is pressurized and the air conditioning system helps to regulate the temperature. The temperature inside the cabin is often set lower to prevent overheating and ensure passenger comfort. It would be far less comfortable if the temperature was high. In addition, cooler temperature helps people sleep.
Blankets are often provided on flights to help passengers stay warm. The blankets can help to trap heat and provide insulation, keeping the passenger warm in the cooler cabin environment.
In addition to using a blanket, there are several other ways to stay warm on an air flight:
Dress in layers: Wearing multiple layers of clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, a sweater, and a jacket, can help to trap heat and provide insulation. It is better to have clothing that is modifiable, with zips, and easy to remove if you’re overheating.
Avoid clothing that is bulky and is likely to take up the already limited space. Avoid plastic in the form of polyester as it gets in the way of proper thermoregulation.
By following these tips and taking the necessary measures, you can stay warm and comfortable during an air flight.
- Bring a book, magazine, and a paper notebook to keep you occupied
The number of people who are bored on their flights is difficult to determine as it varies from person to person. Some people find flying to be an exciting adventure, while others may find it to be dull or monotonous.
However, many people do turn to books, magazines, or other non-screen-based activities to pass the time during flights. This is because screens, such as those on laptops, smartphones, and tablets, emit blue light, which can disrupt the natural sleep cycle and cause eye strain. Additionally, staring at a screen for extended periods of time can be mentally taxing and contribute to feelings of boredom and restlessness.
In contrast, reading a book or a magazine can be a relaxing and engaging activity that helps to take the mind off of the flight and improve overall well-being. Reading can also stimulate the imagination and enhance creativity, making it a beneficial activity for both the mind and the body.
A paper notebook could also help by drawing the attention away from the stress of the journey towards something more pleasant, perhaps a creative activity or planning on a piece of paper.
Furthermore, non-screen-based activities, such as reading, can be a way to disconnect from technology and enjoy a break from screens and screens. This can help to reduce stress and improve mental clarity, making it a better option for many people compared to screens during a flight.
- Take advantage of any in-flight amenities like movies or games.
Tablets, phones, and other screen-based activities can help people relax and rest during a flight in several ways:
Entertainment: Screen-based activities can provide entertainment, such as movies, TV shows, games, and music, which can help to distract from the flight and pass the time.
Comfort: Screen-based activities can provide comfort and a sense of familiarity, especially for people who use these devices regularly in their daily lives.
Relaxation: Some screen-based activities, such as meditation apps or white noise generators, can help to promote relaxation and stress reduction.
Distraction: Screen-based activities can also be used as a distraction for anxious flyers, helping them to focus on something other than the flight and reduce stress.
Connectivity: Screen-based devices can provide a way to stay connected with friends, family, and work, allowing people to stay productive or in touch while traveling.
However, it is important to note that screen-based activities should be used in moderation and with caution, as excessive screen time can contribute to eye strain and disrupted sleep patterns. It is recommended to take breaks and engage in other activities, such as reading or stretching, to reduce the negative impact of screen time on the body and mind.
- Stretch your legs and move around the cabin to prevent stiffness and improve circulation.
During long flights, the body can experience several negative effects on the whole body, but the most effect is evident in the cardiovascular system, including:
- Dehydration: The low humidity levels in the cabin can cause dehydration, which can impact blood flow and cardiovascular function.
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Prolonged immobility can increase the risk of DVT, a condition in which blood clots form in the deep veins, potentially leading to serious complications.
- Stiffness and discomfort: Sitting in a confined space for extended periods of time can lead to stiffness, discomfort, and aches in the muscles and joints.
- Reduced circulation: The cramped quarters and limited movement can reduce circulation, leading to feelings of fatigue and discomfort.
To counteract these negative effects and maintain cardiovascular health during a flight, it is important to engage in physical activity, such as stretching and walking. Just walking to the toilet can be a wonderfully relaxing activity.
Stretching can help to improve blood flow, prevent stiffness, and reduce discomfort. Regular stretching exercises, such as neck rolls, ankle circles, and shoulder stretches, can be performed while seated or in the aisle.
Depending on your body shape and height, stretching could be more difficult for some.
Walking can also help to improve circulation and prevent DVT. Taking a walk down the aisle or up and down the steps of the aircraft, if possible, can help to get the blood flowing and reduce the risk of DVT.
What else is there to do when flying to feel better and to be more relaxed?
In addition to stretching and walking, it is important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, wear loose and comfortable clothing, and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration and disrupt sleep patterns. By taking these steps, you can help to prevent stiffness, improve circulation, and reduce stress during a long flight.
If you experience persistent or severe discomfort during air travel, it is recommended that you consult a healthcare professional.