Planes

Tips in the Plane

Here are some general tips while you are in the plane. First and foremost, get comfortable. If you are traveling trans-Atlantic or trans-Pacific, get as comfortable as possible as it is going to be a long trip.

• Most long-duration flights will serve a meal. That said, bring snacks in case the food does not appeal/agree with you.
• Most long-duration flights will have some sort of movie service. Many will have small monitors in the back of the seat in front of you. That said, DO NOT RELY UPON SUCH THINGS to keep you occupied. I have been on planes where these did not work, someone stuck something in the headphone jack, etc. Make sure you bring something with which to occupy yourself for the duration of the flight.
• Bring your own set of headphones for in-flight entertainment. You do not know where the headphones they hand out have been.
• On most international flights, alcoholic beverages are free. Should you choose to imbibe, do so in moderation. The last thing you want to do is get sick in a plane.
• Every once in a while, get up and walk around. This helps your circulation.
• If you are one who has frequent calls of nature, make sure you get an aisle seat. You may like to look out the window, but it can be annoying to other passengers in your row if you frequently need to get out of your seat.
• If you can, bring an inflatable neck pillow--the ones that look like giant cashews. If you do intend to sleep on the flight, these will greatly facilitate the endeavor.
• Drink plenty of water. Planes are dry places and you can get dehydrated quickly.