15 Tips to Improve Your Air Travel Experience

We can probably all agree that, while we’re grateful for the expediency of air travel, sometimes, it can be a bit chaotic. Whether we’re racing through terminals or faced with the dreaded middle seat, the whole process can be a bit grueling. But, we’re here to fix that for ya!

With a little planning and a few clever hacks, we believe we can help make flying smooth, comfortable, and – dare we say – even a little bit enjoyable. We’ve gathered our 15 favorite tips in the hopes that your next flight will be easy breezy. 

Pack Smart, Not Heavy

Packing for a flight is a bit of an art. You don’t want to lug around a suitcase full of stuff you won’t use, and you also don’t want to forget the essentials. Start with a packing list a few days ahead of time. Think layers, comfy clothes, and your must-haves like chargers, medications, and travel docs.

Try to keep your carry-on light and organized. Use packing cubes or small pouches to separate items. And don’t forget about the power of the personal item you’re allowed to tuck under the seat in front of you. 

Consider it a divide-and-conquer kind of challenge. Pack everything in your personal item that you’ll want easy access to, like chargers, travel docs, and a few toiletries. Then, you can pack your clothes and other items that you won’t necessarily need during the flight in your carry-on. 

Dress Like a Travel Pro

Comfort is key when you’re flying. Go for breathable layers and comfy shoes. Airplanes tend to be unpredictable with temperature; one minute it’s a sauna, the next it’s an icebox. That’s where the freedom to peel off a layer or two comes in handy. 

Slip-on shoes are especially helpful at security and if your feet swell in the air. And don’t forget a soft sweatshirt or scarf that can double as a pillow or blanket when you’re trying to get cozy mid-flight.

Choose Your Seat Wisely

Seat selection can make or break your flight. If you’re someone who gets up often, grab an aisle seat. If you like to curl up and sleep, the window’s your best friend. Apps like SeatGuru can help you pick a seat with extra legroom or let you know which ones to avoid.

If your airline charges for seat selection, we almost always recommend it, especially on longer flights. And, if you’re stuck in the middle, bring headphones and a good attitude. Sometimes that’s all you need.

Bring Your Own Snacks

Airplane food is… fine, but not always the best. Even on shorter flights, snacks can be hit or miss. Do yourself a favor and bring your own. Think protein bars, trail mix, dried fruit, or even a sandwich if it’s a longer journey.

Avoid anything too smelly (no tuna, please) and skip anything that could melt or squish easily. Having your own stash simply means you won’t be on edge if turbulence delays the snack cart.