Conquer Your Flying Anxiety For Good

I have anxiety when it comes to a lot of things; I’m someone who will Google a restaurant’s menu before going to eat there to help ease the nervousness that it will be the one place on Earth that doesn’t have anything I like to eat. When it came to flying, I used to be a nervous wreck before every flight (it was embarrassing). Then I realized I was so nervous because I rarely flew. The more you fly, the more comfortable you will become. If you’ve never flown before, or it’s been a while since you’ve flown, here are tips and tricks to help make your flight more bearable and an outline of what to expect. 

Before arriving at the airport

Check-in for your flight 24 hours before using the app or website. After you check-in, you’ll have access to your boarding pass. You’ll need your boarding pass at the security checkpoint and at the gate, along with your ID or passport. 

 

If you have high anxiety about flying, you can talk to your doctor about medications to help lessen your anxiety. Make your appointment well in advance of your trip and talk to your doctor about possible side effects. 

 

Once you get to the airport, take pictures of where you parked (because you might forget after a weeklong vacation), as well as your passport and your bag. These pictures will come in handy if you lose or misplace any of these items. 

 

You can look at the airport maps ahead of time to see where your gate is after security. Usually, terminals are separated by the airline, but some airports fill the gate as the plane arrives. Your app should update and send you messages about where to go, but you can also check the TV screens at the airport. 

 

If you’re planning on only taking a carry-on and/or personal item, make sure you follow TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/frequently-asked-questions/what-3-1-1-liquids-rule#:~:text=Each%20passenger%20may%20carry%20liquids,of%20liquids%2C%20gels%20and%20aerosols.

 

Airport

You’ll want to arrive at least 2 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours for international BUT allow extra time if it’s the early morning, evening, holidays, or a special event. Some specific airports (like Aruba) suggest even longer times. Boarding usually begins 35 minutes before the departure time, and the airline won’t hold the plane if you’re running late. 

 

Go to the counter or kiosk of your airline if you’re checking a bag. If you’re not checking a bag, go straight to security. Some airports that typically have long lines, like SEATAC, will let you “book” a spot in the security line to help reduce your wait time.

Security 

Security at every airport is different, which is frustrating. You’ll be asked at many airports to remove your shoes, watch, belt, and cell phone and place them in a bin. Wear easily removable shoes, just in case, because there usually isn’t a place to sit down to take them off. Some airports ask you to remove laptops or iPads and place them in a separate bin, but some don’t, so keep that in mind. If you have your liquids bag, be prepared to remove it and place it in a bin by keeping it in an outside pouch or backpack instead of burying it in the main compartment of your suitcase under your underwear. 

Flying

Once you’ve made it through security and on your plane, it’s time to sit back and enjoy your flight! It’s said that the middle of the plane by the wings is said to be less bumpy than the front or the back, but first class is in the very front and is much more comfortable. Keep in mind whether or not you’d like to look out the window or if you’d feel more comfortable being by an aisle. Also, consider being in an exit row – there’s more legroom, but you will be asked if you can remove the door – but you’ll be first out in the event of an emergency.

 

Whenever I fly, I have to distract myself: music, Netflix, a book, an eye cover, ear plugs (planes are loud, and you don’t really realize it). Most planes have free wifi, but I’ve found it isn’t always the most reliable, so I always download my media for offline use. Most turbulence feels like a bumpy road – if you live in the midwest, I’m sure you’re used to rough roads and potholes. Trick yourself into saying it’s just a pothole. 

 

When it is all said and done, please don’t let a fear of flying deter you from experiencing the world and all the wonders there are out there. I hope this helps you conquer your fear of flying! 

Are you ready for your next plane ride? Contact your favorite Pineapple Escapes agent or email us at info@pineappleescapes.com to get started!

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