Tips for the nervous flyer

For some people, anxiety about flying can ruin a trip. Here are some ideas to help manage your fears.

planewindow

Identify your fear 

It will be easier for you to manage your fear if you understand where it comes from. Are you frightened your plane will crash? Tell yourself logically thousands of flights go ahead without incident every day. Are you nervous about being in a small space? Reassure yourself you will be able to get up and walk around, splash water on your face and will only be on the plane for a short while. If you’re worried about getting motion sickness there’s plenty you can do to manage this.

Pack distractions

If you’re on an international flight with in flight entertainment, plug in your headphones and start watching a movie or TV series as soon as you can. Distracting yourself in this way will put you at ease and all you need to worry about is focusing on the plot. If you’re particularly fussy consider packing your own iPad or tablet with your favourite movies or series, then you’ll feel right at home. It can also be a good idea to pack a book or magazine if you get bored of TV.

Pack your own food 

For travellers fearful of getting sick on the plane anxiety can increase at meal times. Try to remember if you’re on a long haul flight you really shouldn’t go the whole time without eating. Even if you think this will stop your nausea; this will only make you feel light headed and sick anyway. If you have some favourite snacks you are ok with when you’re nauseous, stock up on those. Salty plain crackers, rice cakes, plain muesli bars, pretzels, or fruit bars are all good options that are easy on the stomach.

Consider medication

If you really can’t fly without becoming very nauseous or suffering from anxiety you may want to speak with a chemist or doctor about your options. Motion sickness tablets like Travacalm can be really useful and can be found at the airport pharmacist if you leave it to the last minute. Otherwise make an appointment with your doctor if you think you need something stronger.

Think happy thoughts 

As cliché as it sounds, travel nerves for the most part really are all in the mind. If you encounter a spot of turbulence, just picture yourself somewhere that calms you: walking along a beach, lying by a pool, or walking through a rainforest. Try to focus on the destination that awaits you and the flight will seem just a minor obstacle to overcome.

 

IMG_1715

One comment Add yours
  1. Think happy thoughts – I like it! This should get me through all of the future flights.

    You go girl.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *