Have a Low Stress Flight

Flying can be an incredibly stressful experience, especially is it's your first time at a particular airport, first time with a connecting flight, or just first time in general! Here are some tips to minimize your airport and flight stress!

Steps

 * 1) Book in advance: If you book in advance, you are more likely to get the seat you want and have a cheaper ticket, as last-minute tickets can be very expensive and you could end up in a rather undesirable seat.[[Image:Have a Low Stress Flight Step 1.jpg|center]]
 * 2) Either check or ship your luggage: take as few carry on items as possible, this reduces the number of items you have to keep track of. Only carry on items such as laptops, cell phones, iPods, and whatever you need to keep you from getting bored during your flight[[Image:Have a Low Stress Flight Step 2.jpg|center]]
 * 3) Arrive at the airport AT LEAST one hour prior to scheduled departure to avoid stress due to long lines at baggage checking and security. Now is also the time to get a drink or something to eat so you are not hungry or thirsty onboard[[Image:Have a Low Stress Flight Step 3.jpg|center]]
 * 4) Wear layers: wear short sleeves with a sweater or jacket. Wear shoes that are easy to remove. DO NOT wear jewelry and if you can, avoid wearing a belt.[[Image:Have a Low Stress Flight Step 4.jpg|center]]
 * 5) As soon as you board: TURN OFF YOUR OVERHEAD VENT! This air vent blows recirculated air directly into your face towards your eyes mouth and nose. Leaving this on is the fastest way to get sick while flying. Inform the people sitting next to you of this and kindly ask if they would turn theirs off as well.[[Image:Have a Low Stress Flight Step 5.jpg|center]]
 * 6) When you land: Do not make a mad dash for the exit. Everyone else on the plane wants to get off as well, and should move rather quickly especially with the flight attendants ushering them out. Take your time, make sure you collect all your carry on items, and calmly head towards the exit[[Image:Have a Low Stress Flight Step 6.jpg|center]]
 * 7)  When connecting: Make sure you give yourself at least 30 minutes between connecting flights. If you are an unaccompanied minor IMMEDIATELY go to the help desk and ask for someone to take you to your connecting flight. They will be willing to help you, and you will be able to relax before boarding again instead of searching for your gate.[[Image:Have a Low Stress Flight Step 7.jpg|center]]
 * 8) Keep your destination in mind!: Keep in mind where you are going and why you are flying. Maybe on an important business trip or adventure? Vacation or visiting friends/family? Remembering why you are doing this will keep your stress levels low and make the flight and airport hassle worth it![[Image:Have a Low Stress Flight Step 8.jpg|center]]

Tips

 * Arrive at the airport early
 * Keep yourself busy, or sleep!
 * take as few carry-ons as possible
 * Turn off your air vent
 * Keep your destination in mind!
 * Check or ship bags
 * Wear layers
 * Ask for help if you need it

Related wikiHows

 * Stay Healthy when Traveling by Plane
 * Be Comfortable on a Long Airplane Trip