I don't like to fly. I hate the long security lines, the hurry-up-and-wait mentality, and basically the whole idea of hurdling through the air in a metal death tube. But as luck would have it, I'm in a long distance relationship that requires me to fly if I actually want to see my boyfriend in person (because FaceTime dates only go so far). So even though I don't like flying, I had to learn how to do it. And you can too. Trust me.
1. Get there early
Leaving ample amount of time to check in and go through security won't leave you stressed out before you even get on the plane. Arriving two hours ahead of your boarding time is a good rule of thumb but be aware that when flying internationally you may need to get there up to three hours ahead of time.
2. Eat a meal and drink plenty of water
Anxiety might make your stomach feel like it's doing summer salts but eating a light meal before you fly will keep you from getting hangry or grumpy. And it's no secret that flying will dehydrate you, so drink plenty of water and you won't feel the negative effects of dehydration. But be advised that even though airlines may offer alcoholic beverages in-flight, they will only dehydrate you more and if you drink too much trying to calm your nerves, you can be removed from the flight.
3. Bring something to do
You cannot keep the plane in the air just by thinking hard enough. Anxiety can come from a perceived lack of control over a situation and for the couple of hours you're on that plane, you have little to no control over your flight. Delays happen, turbulence happens, crying babies unfortunately happen. But you do have control over how you respond to the situation. To avoid obsessing over every little bump or noise, try to read a book or listen to music. I like to distract myself by crocheting because it requires some concentration and it keeps my hands busy. You can also make yourself a mini schedule. For instance you could decide to read a book for the first half of the flight and take a nap for the remainder of the time. If you're a person who needs structure, this can help give you a sense of purpose and control over the time you're in the air.
4. Understand the science of flying
Planes are not magical death traps that precariously hang in the air waiting to plummet back to earth. Modern planes are the result of over a hundred years of scientific and technological advancement. Planes are specifically designed to operate with the Bernoulli effect, which basically states that the fast air rushing over the wings produces a lift and keeps the plane climbing. Birds with wings also take advantage of this. Science is keeping your plane in the air! Moreover, your pilot and flight attendants are highly trained to keep you safe and if they're not worried, you don't have to be.
5. Visualize yourself at your destination
Are you traveling to see family or a loved one? Think about how happy you'll be when you see them! I do this when I travel to see my boyfriend, I may not like flying but I know that once I get through the flight I'm going to see him and then my happiness will outweigh the temporary discomfort I felt on the flight. If you're embarking on a well-deserved vacation, imagine yourself relaxing in a hammock or laying on the beach. Before you know it, the flight will be over and you'll be able to enjoy your destination!
6. Talk to your doctor
If you're experiencing something more serious than just pre-flight jitters, it could be time to see your doctor or therapist. If your flying anxiety is preventing you from taking trips that you wish you were able to take i.e. an out of state wedding or a work trip, and you feel like it's negatively affecting your life, than your doctor or a therapist can recommend a more personalized treatment plan. There's no shame in seeking help if you are feeling trapped by anxiety. And if you're a student, most colleges and universities have free counseling centers where you can get good advice from someplace other than a list on the Internet.
But at the end of the day, don't beat yourself up. Everyone has something that they're scared of and if flying is your thing, then you're definitely not alone.
