It's not every day that you can get a little time for a vacation, much less even catch a flight to a new place. After a rough, and I mean rough, day of travel, I learned a few little tricks that are really easy to apply and might save you from some tears!
1. Pack some snacks in your carry on
You know how people always make jokes on airplane food? Well, have you seen airport food prices? I'm not even kidding, my roommate and I walked up and down the airport trying to find the cheapest sandwich, which were all commonly $10 (just the sandwich alone), before we ultimately decided on a Tomazzo (literally, giant pizza bagel bites). Save yourself $20 and pack some snacks or a snack bag in general. You'll be able to have a variety of snacks, save yourself from junk food, and your wallet will be happy to have more spending money on your vacay!
2. Pack an extra outfit in your carry on
Because you never know when you might lose all your luggage. Hopefully that doesn't happen, but in the event that it does, you'll at least have one extra outfit to hold you over till you find some clothes.
3. Take a pillow (and maybe a blanket)
Increase your comfort! You can kind of control how cold it is around you, because of the vents, but sometimes you fall asleep and you get a sore neck. Avoid that stiff neck and goosebumps but packing some extra comfort.
4. Get a portable charger
There's not much to do on a plane, which leads you to play candy crush for the next 4 hours, and before you know it, you've got 10% left of battery. You'll thank yourself later for not having to run around the airport looking for an outlet.
5. Headphones
Whether it's too listen to music or to watch a show, headphones are always a necessity!
6. Entertainment
Sometimes phone games can only hold you over for so long. I suggest some crossword puzzles, coloring books, or sudoku puzzles. Both stimulating and fun!
7. Expect the unexpected
I know this is so vague, but really, there is no better way to say it. Sometimes you could be 10 minutes from landing but a lightning storm decides to appear. Or you've been on a delay all day, and once you're finally ready for take of your pilots say "sorry, we've been on the clock too long, were illegal to fly." Trust me, it happens, I say from experience.
8. Pack gum
It might be psychological or maybe there is a true science behind it, but gum can be your friend while flying and help you handle your ears when they start popping.
9. Be friendly
Sometimes you might meet someone in the same job field as you or maybe just someone with cool stories. Either way, it may make the time and your flight a lot smoother.
10. Enjoy your trip
No matter what the travel experience was like, good or bad, don't let it ruin your trip! Always have fun. Always explore!
