Remember these tips fromSavoteurbefore your next big vacation.
Poets, writers, and artists have all waxed philosophical on the virtues of “the journey.”
But cheer up, because the poets were wrongit’s not the journey, but the destination that counts.
Pre-flight:
Keep calm anddon’tcarry on.
Packing is, in two words, the worst.
Then the little devil on your shoulder will say, Hey!
you could take up to seven kilos [15 pounds] of hand luggage.
DO NOT GIVE IN.
Carrying less will eliminate stress.
If youmusthave a carry-on, double-check it’s possible for you to roll it around.
Pre-pack a clutch with your on-flight essentials.
Ah, the frustration of the liquids limit.
I’ve now purchasedthis little beautyto save the process.
Photo byInstagram.com/prenatal_nl
Stay entertained.
Download that TV series you’ve waited to watch.
Bring along that ridiculously long book you’ve had on your list forever.
Not only will these keep you entertained during your flight, but any long layovers, too.
Think of it as a whole day dedicated to your interests.
If you could spend an entire day at home on your couch, what would you wear?
The same applies for your long-haul flight.
Think comfortable, stretchy clothing like leggings, stylish sweatpants, roomy T-shirts, and sweaters.
It’s all about the layers, baby.
Oh, and bed socks.
I cannot fly with cold feet.
(Compression socks can help with circulation.)
Don’t forget neck pillows, eye masks, earplugs, noise-canceling headphones, and the like.
If there’s ever a time you’d need them, an international flight is it.
Snack on healthy stuff like nuts, cut-up carrots, and celery.
And if your stomach starts to rumble on the plane, ring a flight attendant for a menu.
Where’s your money?
Have you put your money belt on?
That’s my mother screaming at me before I board my flight.
Truth is, she always has a point.
Can’t say it’s happened to me yet, but I always love to travel safe.
Hide your valuables deep in your bag.
And really, consider a money belt.
Photo byMaria Sforza
In-flight:
Get as much sleep as it’s possible for you to.
I’m usually on a high for the first couple of hours when everything is new to me.
But then after the usually disappointing dinner is served, I try my best to get some shut-eye.
But sadly, sleep cannot be forced.
I am one of those people who finds it difficult to nap sitting up.
When sleep finally comes knocking, fire up the door.
Dude, you’ve totally got this.
Six hours down, eight hours to go.
Make friends, not war.
Being polite is everything.
Remember, you’re all in this together.
If they’re a chatterbox, it’s possible for you to pass some time exchanging life stories.
It will be over somewhat soon.
Photo byMario Azzi
Move your body.
Sitting all those hours is not exactly the best thing for your blood flow.
Rolling my shoulders forward and back is also a huge relief.
Believe it or not, it makes you feel slightly human again.
Post-flight:
Don’t worry too much about jet lagyou’ll adjust.
You’ve made it through the trenches.
Sometimes it lasts only a few nights; at its worst it’s lasted me two weeks.
Originally written by Nicola Christoforos,Savoteur
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Photo Credit: Hinterhaus Productions
