​Flying for the first time can be scary for anyone. For many people, flying for the first time is also a rite of passage, something that everyone does at some point in their young adult life. Whether it’s your first flight or fiftieth, you’ll always have to get through check-in, security and takeoff. Flying can be stressful, especially if you’re afraid of heights or confined spaces. The thought of a long flight above the clouds feels like a claustrophobic nightmare to most people. We understand that flying can be nerve-wracking and not something that is easy to do but here are some ways that might make your first flight easier.

Research: Check-in times, baggage limits and other requirements

First things first: make sure to check the requirements of your airline. Most airlines have specific rules on the type of baggage you can bring on the plane, their maximum weight and size. Some even have restrictions on the times when you can check in for your flight. Reading up on your airline’s policies will help eliminate some confusion when you get to the airport and avoid potential stress. If you’re traveling with a group, make sure to let everyone know their flight information, including departure and arrival times. Knowing exactly when you have to be at the airport and where you have to go will help you avoid unnecessary stress and anxiety.

Breathe and keep yourself occupied

Breathing exercises can help you relax and keep you occupied during your flight. If you’re struggling with anxiety, it’s also a good idea to keep a pen and paper with you so you can write down your thoughts and feelings. This will help you process and release your emotions. There are plenty of things you can do while waiting in the airport or on the plane. You can read a book or listen to audio books, watch movies or documentaries; there’s a ton of stuff on the internet to keep you entertained. If you’re interested in learning new things, bring a journal or notepad and start writing down things that interest you. You can even write a book or short story if you’re feeling inspired.

Wear comfy clothes and shoes

If you want to be comfortable on your flight, make sure to wear comfy clothes and shoes. Some airlines allow you to wear your own clothes during the flight but most expect you to wear their uniform. Wearing their uniform might be uncomfortable for some people, especially when traveling in hot weather. If you wear your own clothes, make sure you wear something that is easy to move in and comfortable. Avoid wearing clothing that makes you feel restricted or too warm. Wearing loose, breathable clothes will help you stay relaxed and comfortable during your flight. If you’re traveling somewhere cold, wear appropriate clothing to keep you warm and cozy. Avoid wearing clothes that are too tight. They might restrict your movement and cause discomfort. Avoid wearing clothes that are too loose as they might get caught in the airplane’s moving parts.

Try meditation or breathing exercises

If you’re struggling with anxiety, you might want to try meditation or breathing exercises to help you relax. A lot of people find these techniques helpful and they are easy to do. You can start by focusing on your breath. Close your eyes and breathe slowly and deeply. Count your breaths, try to reach 10 or 20. When you feel like you’ve relaxed, open your eyes and start focusing on what’s around you. If you’re traveling with friends or family, try to help them relax. You can perform the exercises with them or help them with their breathing.

Eat beforehand

Some people get really hungry during their flight. If you’re one of those people, make sure to eat beforehand. Preferably, you should eat a light meal before your flight. You don’t want to eat something heavy that might make you feel sick or uncomfortable during your flight. Most airlines offer a meal or snack during your flight. If you’re not traveling first or business class, however, you might not get anything. If you’re traveling with babies or small children, however, you get a special meal. If you’re not offered a meal or you know you won’t be able to eat during your flight, try to eat lightly before leaving for the airport. Avoid eating something heavy that might make you sick.

Stop being a baby and just go for it

Your first flight might be scary. You might feel nauseous or anxious but that’s normal. Most people feel that way their first flight. The key to getting through your first flight is to just go for it. Remember that flying is a completely normal thing to do. Millions of people do it every year and flying is the most common way to travel. Flying is actually a very safe way to travel and you can trust the pilot and crew to get you to your destination safely. If you follow these steps, your first flight will hopefully be less stressful and more enjoyable. Flying is a normal thing and you have nothing to be afraid of. Flying is actually a lot safer than traveling by car or train. So, don’t be afraid to take that trip across the world or across the country.