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Having some nerves before flying is not uncommon, but how to stop it getting in your way? Learning how to reduce nerves around flying can help you enjoy a stress-free travel experience.
We can all dream about being on a relaxing holiday, however, getting there is often harder for some people more than others.
A fear of flying can often mean you restrict yourself on where you go, or perhaps you are able to get there, but it takes a lot out of you mentally and physically.
Having some nerves before flying is not uncommon, but how to stop it getting in your way? Learning how to reduce nerves around flying can help you enjoy a stress-free travel experience.
If you’re a nervous flyer, getting to the airport on time feel like an extra chore.
One of the best ways to make the journey to the airport more relaxing is to give yourself extra time so you don’t end up rushing. The recommended time to get to the airport is 2-3 hours before your flight to allow time to get through security and to check in any bags you have.
It’s worth making sure you allow enough time for any delays getting to the airport too. Check beforehand to make sure there aren’t any scheduled train cancellations and delays or road works and closures. That means you have one less thing to worry about.
One of the perks of booking with an ABTA member is not only a seamless booking process, but the fact you can speak to your travel agent about any worries you might have. Tell your travel agent or operator you’ve booked with about your fear of flying. As expert travellers, they might have some advice to help calm your pre-flight nerves.
Equally, you could tell the cabin crew on your flight that you’re a nervous flyer. They’ll be able to reassure you, let you know how the aircraft works and the ins and outs of turbulence.
There’s nothing worse than feeling fidgety, especially when you have to sit for the majority of your journey. So, make sure you’re comfortable, whether that’s being cosy in an oversized hoodie, covering yourself with a blanket or resting your head on a neck cushion.
When you check in, consider booking an aisle seat or a bulkhead seat which typically allow for more leg room. Sometimes feeling a bit anxious of flying can be due to a sense of claustrophobia, if you feel like that sounds like you, it’s probably worth giving yourself a bit more room to feel comfortable and less closed in.
Carry a refillable bottle of water with you, which can be refilled after you pass through security in the airport terminal. That way, whenever you feel panicked you don’t have to worry about not being able to have a sip of water. Drinking water can help calm you down and prevent hyperventilating which may help manage your fear of flying.
Distract yourself with things to do at the airport, like window shopping or fuelling up on a nice meal. During the flight, reduce nerves by starting your new holiday read and immerse yourself in the story. Watch a film or TV series, listen to music or a podcast, or get yourself an activity book packed with sudokus or crosswords to help the time fly.
Practice deep breathing exercises to relax your body. It might be easier said than done, but if you’re able to master this it could really help to calm your nerves. You might also find it useful to talk to yourself positively as you do this. It’s like practicing a form of mindfulness that’ll have you focusing on positivity and relaxation as opposed to anything else that may be happening in the background.
Do you know what it is about flying that makes you feel nervous? For many people it’s turbulence and what has helped them overcome their fear of flying is to read up on articles or books, or even listen to podcasts to help them understand what turbulence is and techniques to calm them whenever turbulence hits.
Lastly, you might be one to enjoy a coffee or two throughout the day, but caffeine can actually make you feel more panicky and jittery. If you’re already nervous about flying, it might be better to take a step away from the coffee before and during your flight.
