Travel Tips: Airline Travel

Airline travel used to be a big deal. Nowadays, one can get such a big deal money-wise that it is by far the most effective and enjoyable way to travel. Most people who travel for pleasure (as opposed to business) travel a few times per year. No matter how much or how little you travel by air, knowing travel tips can make your trip worth every dollar. Domestic flights usually take no more than six or seven hours; if there is no stop-over during the flight, this can be a long time to sit still. For circulation and general well health, remember these tips:


• Stretch before the flight. A runner’s stretch to include the hamstring, quads, calves, and back will help flexibility.
• Drink a lot of water the day before the flight.
• For longer flights, consider Ted hose (therapeutic tight nylon-type socks).
• Bring a deflatable neck pillow.

When the boarding call begins, pay no attention to your seat number. Really. You have that seat number no matter when you board the plane. Spend as much time as you can on foot in the airport. Instead of sitting in the waiting area watching television or reading a magazine, walk briskly around the airport and window shop. Take the stairs instead of the escalator; this will give you a reason to want to sit down for a while on the flight. Be the last to board, and you’ll be seated the shortest amount of time.

Throw fashion to the wind. Unless you are meeting a very important client at the airport, or making a first impression on a future employer, don’t torture yourself for style. Men: wear jeans, or sweat pants and a t-shirt. Women: wear jeans or stretch pants and a long-sleeved shirt as the planes tend to be chilly. Always ask for a blanket right when you enter the plane; even if you’re not cold, you can use it for privacy if you want to sleep. Wear shoes that slip on and off easily.