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This isnt to say that flying is easy on the brain and body.
Oleksii Karamanov/Getty Images
The experience can leave you sore, stressed out, and exhausted.
Every inconvenience will be more bearable if youre not rolling up to the airport exhausted.
There are a few things you could pack that will make flying more physically comfortable.
If youre a light sleeper, pack aneye maskto block out the ever-shifting plane lighting.
(And if youre the person with those antsy, vocal kids?
Heres aConde Nast Travelerguide to help.)
Worried about whether your medicine is okay to bring aboard?
All of this preparation downgrades a luggage-related mishap from a potentially trip-altering emergency to a big annoyance.
Were so lucky to be alive during the golden age ofathleisure.
Prep your body for hours of sitting with a gentle workout routine.
And if youre feelingshoulder,back, andneck painmid-flight?
Stretch it all out.
Wear a pair ofcompression socks.
Though this risk is minimal for people who dont have certain health conditions, its increased by high altitudes.
Compression socks can also help combat any related swelling and discomfortyour ankles and calves will seriously thank you.
A little movement can also help ease any travel-inducedbloating.
As unfair as it is, flying comfortably while fat requires some extra preparation.
(Katie requested that SELF omit her last name for professional reasons.)
(you’re able to checkSeatGuruto find the width of the seats on your plane.)
the way many airports require travelers to hop from terminal to terminal.
For the best protection, grab a pack ofdisposable N95, KN95, or KF94 masks.
One thing youdoneed to thoroughly sanitize: your hands!
And washing [or disinfecting] your hands before touching your facethats probably the most important thing.
Bring an empty reusable water bottle in your carry-on and fill it up before you get on the plane.
Its also a good idea to download ameditation appif you think you might need a little extra guidance.
Take it easy if youredrinking alcohol while flying.
If youre prone to motion sickness, plan accordingly.
(Skip the ginger alethe sugar content could actually make you feel worse.)
Take your water bottle to the bathroom, or ask the flight attendants for a cup of water.
Drink more water, too, since vomiting dehydrates you.
Airplane food…famously not the best, if its even on offer!
Think mixed nuts, protein bars, or a banana.
you could always just copywhat a registered dietitian packs to eat on trips, including her signature airport sandwich.
Be lightly friendly to your neighbors.
Do yourself a profound favor and let go of the illusion that youmight get some work doneduring your flight.
When youve safely landed,stretch and move your bodyagain once you reach your destination for maximum cramp-banishing effect.
