I fly a lot. A thread of what I learned: • Never check bags. Pack for max 10 days & do laundry. • Jetlag hits you on the second night. Use melatonin. • When you get off the plane, speed walk to passport control. You save a minute of queuing for every person you pass.
• Cabin pressure & lack of movement is bad for blood circulation. Regular stretches & movement prevents aching. • Cabin air is dry. Moisturise skin & lips often. • Watching films dries your eyes quickly, you’ll feel rough afterwards. Podcasts, music & audiobooks are better.
• Ask for upgrades at the gate everytime. Sometimes they’re really cheap. • Noise cancelling headphones are essential. • Neck pillows aren’t worth the hassle. Eye masks are worth it. • Always have a powerbank. Don’t count on inflight power or entertainment.
• Snacks. M&Ms or Skittles are good. • Orange Juice is magic. It makes you feel alive again. Bring your own, theirs is sugar water. • Bring anti-bacterial wipes for the table. • During school term time, arriving 1.5 hrs before an international flight is fine. Trust me.
• Passports are pocket sized. Keep it on you from start to finish. • Always take off belt, shoes & jackets at security, even if they don’t ask, it saves you any trouble. • All electronics should be in your backpack. Repacking your suitcase after an inspection is a nightmare.
• Have good bags. I use an Away Suitcase & a Peak Design Backpack. • Always have a shortcut set up to alert someone if there is any trouble upon landing. This is especially important for non-white people. • Being patient, smiley & friendly go a long way. What are your tips?