A lot of people hate flying…and I completely get that.
I think I’m in the minority of the population that actually enjoys flying. Now part of this enjoyment comes from the preparations I make so I’d like to share with you my checklist and hopefully, it can ease the pain of flying for you in the future.
Really, I just want to share my piece of advice about sneaking booze on planes… but we might as well cover some aspects of flying that can make it a little easier!
Entertainment
People have their varying forms of entertainment to pass the time…their laptop, a coloring book, traditional books, sleeping pills, etc. But they all help pass the time. I rely on electronics for my entertainment (as many people I know do as well) so while it doesn’t come with the simplicity of a hard copy book; I think it can offer a lot options more if you plan it right.
There are two aspects to always keep in mind with your devices:
1. Assume you’re going to be without access to power.
2. Assume you’re going to be without access to internet.
While this is a no brainer, it means I always fully charge before my trip and carry my charger with me. But there have been too many times where lack of internet has caught me off guard…I didn’t realize how much I rely on the internet while on my iPhone/iPad (A lot, actually) so make sure you have some movies pre-downloaded or games already on your device to avoid my mistake.
…or just bring a regular book so you don’t have to deal with the hassle of electronics, either way.
BONUS: Bring a power strip so you don’t have to worry about finding an outlet and everyone will love you for it.
Clothes
You’re not trying to impress anyone while you’re flying so there’s no need to be wearing a suit here (Unless you’re going to a business meeting straight from the airport). Just wear whatever you’re most comfortable in without looking like a homeless bum (I’m looking at you, guy, wearing old, baggy sweatpants and a hoodie from a no name sports team, how can you afford a plan ticket anyway?). Either way, my go to flying outfit is just a pair of jeans, boat shoes, and a t-shirt. Nothing fancy, but it gets the job done.
One note on shoes: wear something that can slip on and off easily…whether these are a pair of boat shoes, flip flops, or sneakers it will save you those crucial seconds in the security line and you can pop them off for added comfort in the plane (for the love of humanity, DO NOT take them off in a confined space if your feet smell).
Drinks
What can make flying more enjoyable? A cocktail, of course.
What can make flying less enjoyable? An absurdly priced cocktail, of course.
This is single handedly the most important piece of information I received from someone about flying that I would like to pass on to you. One TSA regulation that you may be familiar with is that of the 3-1-1 rule…essentially it says that you can have little bottles of liquid that are 3 ounces or less, as long as they are placed in a 1-quart, clear plastic bag. One of the beautiful things about this is that alcohol nips (the tiniest bottles of alcohol you can buy) are under 3 ounces…so what does this mean for you?
This means that you can bring along as many of those little alcohol bottles that you can stuff into a quart sized Ziploc bag…check yes please. Sure, the TSA agent might give you a funny look, but it’s completely permissible to pass through the security gate.
One disclaimer though: Don’t pull out the bag in front of the flight attendants…all the airlines have their own regulations that I’m sure would not want you bringing your booze.
Either way…I hope these tips help you on your journeys and happy flying!
