There's something about soaring 35,000 feet above the ground that can evoke fear, especially if you're unfamiliar with flight mechanics or aerodynamics.
Being afraid of flying is completely normal and more common than you think.
In fact, the fear of flying, also known as aerophobia or aviophobia, affects a large percentage of the population.
While there is no quick way to overcome the fear of flying, there are certain practices and essentials that will make the experience of traveling less anxiety-provoking.
Here's what you'll want to do before you board your next flight:
Best practices for overcoming the fear of flying
Know what scares you
The reason for fear of flying varies from person to person and ultimately comes down to knowing what triggers your fear and what you can do about it.
"The fear of flying is like the fear of public speaking with me, and the best general advice to overcome it is to practice it," says Bayram Annakov, founder and CEO of App in the Air.
"First of all, understand the root cause of your fear. Knowing your trigger always helps with fear of public speaking; knowing the cause of your fear will also help you overcome it."
Once you've established why he's afraid of flying, you can consider what steps he can take to gradually overcome it.
Gradually overcome the fear of flying
In general, the more you do something, the easier it becomes.
Starting small will help you relax to fly without feeling too overwhelmed.
"I used to avoid flying at all costs until I was offered a job in Los Angeles, 3,000 miles away from my family," says Jenn Lloyd, founder of Sick Girl Travels.
"Soon I found myself confronting my fears in order to see my family."
Lloyd's advice?
Take small steps to make sure you're ready to fly.
"Don't wait until you have to fly internationally for someone's wedding to address your fears. Start by taking short trips where you're only in the air for an hour or so. It'll help you get used to flying and you'll know what to expect." .
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Become an AvGeek to help you overcome your fear of flying
Aviation enthusiasts, often affectionately called "AvGeeks", are passionate about all things aircraft related.
There are even communities dedicated to the art of flying and plane spotting at airports around the world.
By educating yourself in the science of flying so that you don't worry so much about things that happen during a flight, you are putting your fear to the test.
"The turbulence was my biggest trigger," says Lloyd.
"But once I started reading about how planes fly and how they are designed to handle turbulence, it became easier for me to manage my anxiety. The Psychology Guide has a great article on how planes work."
Talk to the crew about your fear of flying
"Talk to a professional — no, not a psychologist (although that can help, too), but an airline professional," suggests Lloyd.
"From security checkpoints, to taxi and takeoff, to landing, hearing about what's going on outside the main cabin helps you feel less at the mercy of total strangers."
If you have someone in your life who works as a pilot or flight attendant, it can be helpful to sit down with them and listen to their experiences.
But talking to the crew on your flight can also give you a lot of information.
The crew already knows too many nervous travelers and has the tools and knowledge to help you feel comfortable.
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Consider an aisle seat to help with fear of flying
When it comes to getting on a plane, it matters where you sit.
Having more room to move around and get up and walk around when needed could make a difference in helping you feel comfortable.
"If you're claustrophobic, make sure you pick an aisle seat before you fly," says Lloyd.
"Choosing an airline that lets you choose your seat can help you feel less trapped. This allows you to get up and walk around the cabin as needed."
What you consume can help or aggravate your fear of flying
Caffeine, alcohol, and high-sodium foods can make your heart race and increase your anxiety, says Lloyd.
If you're a nervous traveler, you'll want to avoid all of these things before and during your flight.
You'll also want to be aware of what you see on board.
“Watching sports, action movies, or thrillers can get your heart racing again,” shares Lloyd.
"Consider sitcoms or relaxing music. You want to keep your mind and body as relaxed as possible.
Think about destiny to overcome your fear of flying
Sometimes it's all about where you're going.
Whether it's the Maldives or skiing in the Rocky Mountains, in many cases, you're looking forward to reaching your final destination.
And that's a great way to focus your attention.
Focus on the destination, not the journey.
"When you feel those negative thoughts creeping in, think about how great you'll feel once you're out on the field enjoying that hard-earned vacation," suggests Lloyd.
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The best products to overcome the fear of flying
Not only should you be aware of your mindset and the steps you can take to overcome your fear of flying, but heading into your next flight fully equipped with the right gear can help put your mind at ease.
From relaxing scents to necessary reading material, here's what to pack for your next flight if you still want to overcome your fear of flying.
NodPod Soft Pressure Sleep Mask
buy it for
MX$725 or
USD$ 34
The NodPod sleep mask is a must-have solution for travel anxiety and fear of flying.
The gentle pressure offers a feeling of comfort and relaxation to help you sleep throughout the flight.
Please note that the adjustable elastic works in all positions, so it will stay on tight.
Headspace Membership
try it here
From traditional meditation sessions to relaxing sound recordings, the Headspace app has become a go-to for many nervous flyers.
Members have access to hundreds of different recordings to best suit their interests and needs, and all tracks are downloadable.
lavender oil
buy it for
MX$ 170 or
USD$7.49
Aromatherapy may seem like the wrong practice at first glance, but there is a good deal of science-backed research that acknowledges the merit of oils, especially in combating stress and anxiety.
Lavender oil is one of the best options for promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.
'Soar: The Innovative Treatment for Fear of Flying' by Tom Bunn
buy it for
MX$ 286 or
USD$10.45
Captain Tom Bunn performed this self-help technique and it is one of the most effective for people who are afraid of flying.
Its massive success is due to techniques to treat the anxiety, claustrophobia and panic triggered in flight and how to permanently control the release of excessive stress hormones.
The comprehensive program has already helped more than 10,000 nervous travelers overcome their fear and enjoy the travel process.
Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Canceling Headphones
buy it for
MX$5,852 or
USD$ 279
Savvy travelers know the importance of a good pair of noise-cancelling headphones.
These top-notch Sony headphones make it easy to tune out the world around you and focus on your favorite movies, podcasts or meditations.
The earphones are soft and comfortable enough to wear throughout the flight, while the long-lasting 35-hour battery will ensure you never run out of power.
Barmy Weighted Lap Blanket
buy it for
MX$1,182 or
USD$45.04
Weighted blankets are scientifically proven to help decrease anxiety symptoms and encourage a better night's sleep.
Barmy's blanket is a particularly good option to take on your next flight, as it's small enough to pack in a carry-on bag and will offer comforting benefits.
Dr. Arthritis Store Doctor-Developed Button Fidget Cube
buy it for
MX$321 or
$13.99 USD
There's a reason stress relief devices remain in demand: They really work.
This fidget cube fits in the palm of your hand and will do the trick when you're feeling particularly anxious in the air.
The cube comes in its own case.
amazon-kindle
buy it for
MX$1,899 or
USD$ 119
If you prefer the convenience of a good book, it might be worth investing in a Kindle.
The compact design allows you to store all your books in one place, without having to carry more.
Charmking Compression Socks
Buy them for:
MX$754 or
USD$18.94
Compression socks are essential for traveling.
They come with a host of benefits ranging from medical prevention to comfort, and can help make the flying experience more enjoyable.
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