Top 5 Relaxation Tips for the Nervous Flyer

Fear of flying is common. Imagine it: you are 30,000 or more feet in the air with nothing supporting the plane, but air. Not only that, but you are stuck in an airtight container for sometimes up to 6 hours – with people you don’t know. Indeed, flying in an airplane can be a nerve racking experience. However, if you need to fly for work, or if you need to fly to see your family, it may be important to find ways to stay relaxed. Luckily, there are a number of ways to remain calm while flying, so that you can get to your destination – without a panic attack occurring. Here are the top five tips for nervous flyers.

1. Sit in the very front of the airplane. It may be slightly more expensive to sit closer to the front of the plane, but it can often be the area that is less affected by turbulence. This is often the case with larger planes, but even on some smaller commercial aircrafts this can be the case too. Not only that, but the front of the plane is closer to the main exit, which can make it easier to get off the plane when you land.
2. Let the flight attendants know that you have a fear of flying. If you fly alone, be sure to tell the flight attendants, because they will be very accommodating. Oftentimes, they will pay closer attention and they may even give you a few perks. Airlines want their passengers to feel comfortable, so they will bend over backwards. So, if you feel nervous on a flight, tell a flight attendant, because it could make your flight a lot more enjoyable.
3. Take deep breathes every time there is turbulence. Yes, turbulence can be terrifying, but it is important to tell yourself that nothing is wrong. You also want to take deep, sustained breaths, because this can calm your nerves. It may also help to know that no plane – in the entire history of aviation – has crashed because of turbulence. Turbulence happens when the plane encounters pockets of air under the wings – it is a totally normal phenomenon; not only in air travel, but also car travel too.
4. Take a red eye. By taking a red eye flight, you can at least sleep through it. Sleeping can be a great way to reduce anxiety, so that you can have a nice, enjoyable trip. Oftentimes, red eye flights can be less expensive, which is another bonus. When it comes down to it, it can be nice to board a flight, doze off to sleep and wake up at your location.
5. Prepare. Sometimes, your nervousness isn’t about flying, but preparing everything beforehand. So, you want to make sure that you pack and double check that you have everything. Next, you want to call the hotel to make sure your room is available. You also want to find a place to park your car when you get to the airport. For instance, OneStop Parking has great rates and a safe parking garage. Knowing that all your ducks are lined up is a great way to remain calm on a plane flight.