Extreme turbulence can be unnerving even for the most seasoned travelers.
Knowing what to expect and how to react can turn a stressful situation into a manageable part of your journey. This guide covers nine ways to prep well in advance, so you feel more in control and less shaken when the plane hits those stormy skies. If you have the option during check-in, pick a window or aisle near the wings.
1. Choose your seat near the wings to minimize feeling the turbulence.
If you have the option during check-in, pick a window or aisle near the wings. The window lets you look outside and stay grounded in the visual world, while an aisle might make it easier to get up and move once turbulence settles. Both can help you feel more at ease when the ride gets rough. Think soft cotton, stretchy pants, and layers that you can adjust without hassle.
2. Wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing to ease physical tension.
Think soft cotton, stretchy pants, and layers that you can adjust without hassle. Avoid anything that might pinch or itch, since that kind of distraction only amplifies your awareness of the plane’s movement. Your comfort choices before even boarding set the tone for a less stressful flight. When you know your surroundings are safe and clutter-free, it’s easier to stay calm.
3. Secure personal belongings to prevent injury and keep your mind at ease.
When you know your surroundings are safe and clutter-free, it’s easier to stay calm. You won’t be mentally distracted by the possibility of falling objects, and can instead focus on your breathing or calming activities. This simple preparation step might be the difference between anxious and peaceful. Feeling light and hydrated supports your overall endurance against the stresses of turbulence.
4. Stay hydrated and avoid heavy meals before your flight for better wellbeing.
Feeling light and hydrated supports your overall endurance against the stresses of turbulence. It also helps your body respond more effectively to movement, reducing dizziness and queasiness. Prioritizing simple, easy-to-digest meals is a smart way to comfort your body in advance. This technique diverts your attention from the turbulence and sends calming signals to your brain.
5. Practice deep breathing exercises to maintain calm during turbulence.
This technique diverts your attention from the turbulence and sends calming signals to your brain. Many frequent flyers use breathing to ground themselves amid chaos. Having this skill handy means you don’t have to rely on willpower alone when the bumps begin. Loading your device up before the flight ensures you have plenty to enjoy without relying on in-flight Wi-Fi.
6. Use distraction tools like music, podcasts, or games to keep your mind busy.
Loading your device up before the flight ensures you have plenty to enjoy without relying on in-flight Wi-Fi. Think of your playlist or game as a mental shield that blocks out the noise of shaking seats and overhead PA announcements. It makes even the roughest skies pass more quickly in your mind. Feeling empowered comes from knowing you are doing what professionals recommend.
7. Follow crew instructions carefully to stay safe and feel in control.
Feeling empowered comes from knowing you are doing what professionals recommend. When the crew’s guidance is clear, you can trust the situation isn’t out of control. This trust impacts how relaxed you feel and helps maintain a calmer cabin atmosphere for everyone. Some travelers find relief with over-the-counter solutions, while others prefer prescription options tailored to their needs.
8. Consider consulting your doctor about anti-anxiety or motion sickness remedies.
Some travelers find relief with over-the-counter solutions, while others prefer prescription options tailored to their needs. Taking any suggested remedy in advance gives you a head start on feeling better. Remember to factor in any side effects and test treatments before the flight. This mindset shift comes from learning and exposure over time.
9. Accept some turbulence as a normal part of flying to reduce fear.
This travel mindset shift comes from learning and exposure to flying over time. Reminding yourself that turbulence and bumps do not equal danger allows tension to ease. When you expect some shaking during your flight and view it as routine, the flight becomes less about fear and more about the adventure.