Is it possible for hypertensive patients to fly on an airplane: how to prepare for a flight? How to reschedule a long flight

IN modern world traveling by plane is the fastest and most convenient. After all, if earlier you had to spend several days on moving, now you can reach almost anywhere in the world within a few hours. Behind last years the plane has become the most popular mode of transport, and all more people give him preference. However, even for those who fly frequently, air travel is exciting. And some people even experience panic fear before flying. All this is understandable: any of us are frightened by unusual circumstances and new environment in which we find ourselves. Therefore, for almost everyone, air travel is always stressful. And those who cannot cope with the excitement do not think at all about preparing for an air trip and create additional obstacles for themselves during the flight, often forgetting to take the necessary things, medicines, documents, and money with them on the trip. The tips described in the article will help readers of the Collection of Tips to take into account all the nuances of the upcoming air flight, prepare for it in a timely manner and make the flight as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

A few days before the flight

Everything must be done in a timely manner, and preferably in advance. So start pack your bags at least a couple of days before the upcoming flight. Determine the minimum things that you will need on the trip. Then proceed from how long you will be away from home. If you are flying, say, for a week, then you can limit yourself to this minimum, and if you have a longer trip planned, for example, for several weeks or a month, then you should expand your luggage. Surely many are familiar with the situation when, upon returning home, we begin to unpack our suitcases and find things there that we completely forgot about. In order not to take such an extra load with you, try to make a list of necessary things in advance. So you take into account everything you need to take, and most importantly, exclude what you are unlikely to need when traveling. Don't forget to check the weather forecast for the next few days and pack accordingly. weather conditions. Another point to keep in mind: if possible, do not fill your bag or suitcase completely. Usually those who do this are guided by a simple logic: there should be no empty space in the suitcase, but if it is left, why not put something else there, in case it comes in handy? We advise you just the opposite to leave a place in your luggage. Keep in mind that you still have to come back, and, as a rule, almost everyone brings purchased things, souvenirs and gifts with them. So take care in advance where you put them.
The most important thing to prepare is the documents. It is better to take a separate folder for them and place them in a bag with hand luggage. Check if your passport is valid. Just in case, make photocopies of all required documents and put them in your luggage with things. Then decide how much money you want to take with you. More convenient way money storage - credit card. If you are flying to another country, check if there will be any problems with cashing out. Nevertheless, we recommend that readers of the Collection of Tips that you take a small amount of cash. If you have decided everything cash carry cash, decide in which currency it is more profitable to do it. Find out the current exchange rate and determine where and how it will be more convenient for you to exchange money. Most often it is more expedient to exchange money just before departure.

Take care of your health

During flight, the aircraft rises to great height. And this means that the atmospheric conditions will be somewhat different than we are used to. The first danger that may lie in wait for you is dry air. In an airplane, the relative humidity is less than 25%. By the way, about the same indicator of humidity in the Sahara desert. Comfortable relative humidity for a person is 35% -50%. Get ready for the fact that you will experience some inconvenience: sore throat, dry skin, mucous membranes of the nose and eyes. If you are wearing contact lenses, before boarding the plane, it is better to remove them. Otherwise, due to the air circulating in the cabin, your eyes will begin to dry out quickly. It is also worth taking with you three small items that will fit in your hand luggage and will become indispensable in flight: nasal spray, moisturizer and alcohol-containing gel. Fluid for irrigation of the nasal mucosa is especially necessary when flying on long distance, because during long flight you will feel dryness in your nose. A moisturizer is needed to lubricate the area around the lips, nose and all especially dry places. And with the help of an antiseptic gel, you can always disinfect your hands. In flight, we constantly come into contact with objects that have a large accumulation of germs: leafing through magazines, using laptops, touching armchairs, etc. One small drop of alcohol-containing gel is enough to kill all dangerous microorganisms.
It is also worth taking care of the drugs that it is advisable to take with you on board the aircraft. First, if you regularly take any medications, be sure to put them in your bag. However, it is imperative to clarify whether these drugs can be transported. Indeed, for a number of drugs (for example, liquid insulin, some sleeping pills, painkillers, or those containing narcotic substances), you must have a certificate from your doctor or a prescription with you. Secondly, it would not be superfluous to take a number of other drugs: pills for disorders gastrointestinal tract (Activated carbon, smecta, etc.) and drugs that normalize blood pressure. During the flight, pressure drops occur, which are often difficult to tolerate even by people who have normal pressure, not to mention those who have high or low blood pressure.

So that the legs do not swell

When traveling by plane, we have to long time be in a sitting position. From this, first of all, our legs suffer, because with prolonged sitting in one place, the blood begins to circulate poorly throughout the body. Therefore, to begin with, you should think about the shoes that you will wear. It should be light, loose and comfortable, preferably without laces and fasteners. Girls are advised to give preference to shoes without heels. During the flight, try to walk around the cabin as often as possible. Sitting in a chair, try to do a few simple exercises:

  • periodically move your feet from toe to heel;
  • rotate your feet clockwise and counterclockwise;
  • tear off the extended legs by 20-30 centimeters from the floor;
  • tighten your toes, then try to sharply unclench them;
  • try spreading your toes, then close them;
  • on weight, bend your knees, then unbend them and stretch them forward as far as the seat of the passenger in front will allow you;
  • lifting your feet off the floor, quickly cross your ankles.

Such exercises are recommended to be performed 10-20 times, preferably every hour of flight. If you know about your foot problems: you often suffer from leg swelling, you have phlebeurysm, thrombosis, or you often feel an unpleasant heaviness in your legs, then it is better for you to buy therapeutic stockings, tights or stockings before the flight, which will prevent the exacerbation of leg diseases.

To eat or not to eat

In flight, many try to refrain from eating and drinking. As a rule, this is justified by the fact that people are afraid that suddenly they may become ill, nausea and vomiting will appear. If during the flight you have never noticed a deterioration in your health after eating, you can safely eat. If you are afraid for your condition, try to refrain. Meals are provided on board. Moreover, if you fly at lunchtime or in the evening, you can choose between the dishes on offer. We do not advise you to make a choice in favor of a hearty lunch: that is, for example, between fish and meat, it is better to choose the first. Almost all airlines allow the passenger to make adjustments to the menu at the time of booking the ticket. You can order vegetarian and diabetic options or special low-calorie meals to suit your diet. On board it is provided special food for children. We also recommend readers to buy prebiotic yogurt before the flight, which will help normalize bowel function and stimulate the vital activity of beneficial microflora in the body.
Stock up on candy and chewing gum. They will help you out if you get sick. However, if you often suffer from motion sickness on an airplane, it is better to take care of this in advance and take special medications with you. In addition, lollipops can save you if your ear suddenly gets stuffy, since if you have pain or stuffiness in your ears, you should swallow more often during the flight. In this case, you can also try to open your mouth or yawn. This will help normalize the pressure on the eardrum.
As mentioned above, the air humidity on board the aircraft is very low. Therefore, the human body is faced with the problem of dehydration. Take a small bottle of mineral water with you on board. drinking water without gases. If possible, drink a glass of water before planting. Always drink water or unsweetened tea on the plane. It is normal to drink 200 ml of water every hour during the flight. It is also recommended to drink more fluids for several days after landing. It is better to refuse coffee, alcohol, soda water and juices from packages altogether. These drinks will only increase your thirst and keep you hydrated.

If children are flying with you

Children always endure air travel much worse than adults. Therefore, if you are forced to fly with a child, you should consider all the nuances that may arise during the flight. If you are flying for the first time, a few days before the flight, visit a pediatrician and consult about possible problems that your baby may encounter during the flight. If the doctor categorically forbids flying, you should not risk the health of your child. Try another mode of transport or cancel your trip altogether. If you plan to fly to another country, check if your child needs additional vaccinations. It is quite possible that there may be an epidemic of infectious, intestinal or other diseases where you are flying. It is better to fly in the evening or at night so that the child’s sleep schedule does not go astray. With children under one year old, it is better not to fly at all, since the body of an infant can hardly tolerate such loads. However, in case a flight is unavoidable, make sure you have on hand: a change diaper, spare clothes in case a diaper leaks on a long flight, and wet wipes, a bottle of water or formula, a favorite toy. Give your baby a bottle of water during takeoff and landing, this will help normalize pressure drops.
Long hours of air travel with children of any age is not recommended. The optimal flight time is up to 4 hours. You should also not fly to countries where the climate is very different from the usual. Temperature fluctuations have a negative effect on the health of the baby, because at a young age the body's adaptation to new climatic conditions proceeds much worse than in adults. The temperature on board the aircraft can also vary, so we recommend that readers of the Advice Pack take a few extra items into the cabin so that they can be removed or put on at any time. If there is a possibility that the child may be motion sick, buy the necessary medications in advance. Children over the age of 2 usually understand that they are going to be on an airplane and can often feel fear. Talk to your child constantly, explain to him in advance that the flight is an exciting and not at all scary pastime. Perhaps a flight is better compared to riding an attraction. So the child will show interest in what is happening, and he can easily endure the air travel.

Who is not allowed to fly

Because air travel sometimes poses a risk to human health, some people are banned from flying altogether. It is strictly forbidden to fly for those who have had a surgery, heart attack or stroke less than a month ago, people who suffer from cardiovascular diseases (for example, coronary heart disease), have an exacerbation of pulmonary diseases, and also often suffer from ear pain or have ear diseases . People who have undergone surgery a month or more ago, people suffering from varicose veins, increased intracranial pressure, patients with mental disorders, malignant oncological diseases, pregnant women, especially in the last stages of pregnancy, should fly with caution. Those who are diving should remember that between the last dive and boarding the plane, a day must pass. If you have any other medical condition and are in doubt about whether air travel is completely safe for you, consult your doctor.

Air travel is always unusual for us and sometimes difficult. Therefore, very often we succumb to the excitement that grips us and make serious mistakes during the collection and directly during the journey by plane. To avoid this, try to prepare in advance for the flight, take into account all the details and trifles, pack your bags a few days before the upcoming flight. It is best to consult your doctor if you have any health problems or fear that you may become ill while flying. Try to get enough sleep before the flight, and most importantly - calm down. Think about the fact that air travel takes only a few hours, which you can easily reschedule.

Take a blanket and pillow with you. A soft blanket and a pillow under the neck will make the flight much more pleasant. Some airlines have pillows and blankets on board, but they are thin and cold, so it's best to bring your own. The dedicated travel kits are very compact and easy to carry. You can even buy a blanket and pillow at the terminal to avoid going through security with them, but they will cost more there.

  • If you have a blanket and a pillow, you will definitely be warm and your neck will not get numb.

Take wet wipes with you. They will come in handy in order to wipe your hands and the table. You don't want your table to be dirty after the first meal. If you have napkins handy, you also won't have to get up and go to wash your hands every time you decide to eat.

Take an eye mask with you. Some airlines provide these masks, especially on long flights, but be careful. The mask will help you fall asleep and give your eyes a chance to rest. The lights in the cabin will be dimmed at night, but complete darkness will not be superfluous.

Bring earplugs or noise canceling headphones on board. They will come in handy when you decide to sleep. You may have to sit next to a crying baby or two people who will constantly talk, and then these tools will come in handy. Some flights have earplugs, but it's best not to count on it. Noise-canceling headphones are much more than earplugs, but they can drown out all the sounds around you and give you peace of mind.

  • If you bring headphones to listen to music, they will also help you hide from surrounding sounds.
  • Take comfortable clothes with you and put them on. Comfort is more important on board than beauty. Do not wear tight, tight or spiky clothes - you will regret it very soon. Wear loose clothing that is easy to clean. Avoid synthetic fabrics that will be hot and expensive brands which may attract too much attention. Hide jewelry, belts, put on simple shoes so as not to linger at the security checkpoint and not catch the eye of pickpockets. The less valuable you have with you, the less you will have to worry about. Here are some tips for choosing clothes:

    • Take warm clothes with you in case it gets cold on board. Sometimes the temperature becomes uncomfortable, so you can take a scarf, scarf or even a knitted hat with you.
    • Wear multiple layers of clothing. Wear a T-shirt under a long-sleeved shirt or sweater. It can get hot on board during takeoff and landing, and if you have the opportunity to remove warm clothes, it will be very useful.
    • Take warm socks with you. Socks will keep your feet warm if you're flying in sandals, and they can even replace shoes to keep your feet comfortable.
    • Instead of tight pants or jeans, wear leggings, sweatpants, or any loose-fitting pants.
    • If you leave the airport and head straight for a walk around the city, take a change of clothes with you.
    • Silk underwear is lightweight, does not take up space and is suitable for when you fly to a cold place and do not want to buy a lot of warm clothes. You will also need a black cashmere sweater.
  • Pack a small toothbrush and toothpaste in your hand luggage. If you brush your teeth every time you eat, or just want to keep your mouth clean, take a travel brush and toothpaste with you. Of course, brushing your teeth in a tiny airplane toilet won't be easy, but it's better than not brushing your teeth at all.

    Take chewing gum with you. It will also keep you cool. In addition, you can chew gum during takeoff and landing, so that your ears do not pawn.

    Entertainment

    1. Decide which electronic devices you will use. There are two ways here: rely entirely on the airlines and take nothing with you (it is important to find out in advance if there is entertainment on board) or take everything with you, because you may not like what the airlines offer. Remember that there are weight restrictions for carry-on baggage; in addition, the more things you take, the higher the risk of losing something, breaking or losing something as a result of theft. In addition, so you will have in your bag less space for shopping and souvenirs.

      • At the same time, some things will come in handy not only on the plane, but also on the journey in general (for example, a player or an e-book).
      • It is important to remember that if entertainment on board is paid, it may not be cheap. Find out in advance if this service is paid. It may be cheaper to pay for a movie on iTunes and watch it on your tablet or computer than to pay for movies on board. If you choose the films yourself, you will have more options.
    2. Take electronic devices with you. You can take a player for music and audio books, a laptop or tablet to write, read or view any other information, a portable DVD player (although it is quite bulky and most hotels have such players) and a game console (Nintendo DS or PSP ). All devices have advantages and disadvantages that you will need to analyze. If you're going on vacation, it might be best to leave your laptop and other devices that remind you of work at home.

      • Take your mobile phone with you. It can come in handy when traveling, and even if you can't use it on board, it's best to keep it with you. Keep in mind that many new aircraft have in-cabin entertainment.
      • If you take a laptop or player with you, charge them up to 100% before departure. If the flight is going to be very long, you may find it useful to buy a portable battery that will allow you to charge all your devices without power outlets.
    3. Don't forget to bring something to read. If you've been meaning to read one novel for a long time or have fallen behind the news, now is your opportunity to sit down and read. Can buy fresh newspapers or magazines at the airport, read them on the plane, and then throw them away so as not to carry them with you. If you have an e-book, take it with you - it can fit many text files, including a guide to the city you are flying to. You can take with you:

      • Novels (it's better to take several if you don't like one of them)
      • Celebrity magazines ("Caravan of stories", "OK!")
      • Serious magazines ("Expert", "Russian Newsweek")
      • Newspapers
      • Teaching or working materials
        • If you like to take notes, bring along a diary, notebook, or the text of the article you are working on. On the plane, you will have plenty of time for this.
    4. Put in your game bag. It doesn't matter if you are traveling with friends or want to get to know the person sitting next to you, games will keep you entertained on board. You can take with you cards, dice, compact versions of various board games. If you are flying with someone, ask the person beforehand if they enjoy this game.

      • You can take a notebook with you to play sea battle with someone.
      • You can also play some simple games where you only need to talk. You can play cities: one person names the city, and the second must say the name of the city, which begins with the last letter of the first city. Then the turn goes to the first player. Play until one of you can name the next city.
      • You can take the Mad Libs game with you - you and your neighbor will love it.
    5. Take your crosswords with you. Crosswords, sudoku and other word puzzles will keep you entertained on board, especially if you are traveling alone. You won't notice how time flies. One crossword puzzle of medium complexity can take two or more hours, so the time will pass unnoticed.

      • Any mind games will do.
    6. Charge all devices before the flight. This is very important as you will need them in flight. You might be lucky and sit next to a power outlet, but that's unlikely. Do not forget put the chargers in the bag! There is nothing worse than leaving Charger at home and then remember it all the trip. SIM cards from other countries, phone cards or mobile modems will also come in handy.

      • If you really need to charge your device, the flight attendant may be willing to help you, but don't count on it.
      • Many aircraft have the ability to charge devices. Before departure, find out if this is possible on board your aircraft.

      Health

      1. Choose healthy food. Food allows you not only to escape from the monotony of the flight, but also to satisfy your hunger. If you are on a diet or don't want to buy snacks on board, please bring your own food from home. So you can eat when you want, and not only when the flight attendant offers food. Below we provide a small list of snacks that do not spoil and that will quickly fill you up:

        • Apples
        • Mix of dried fruits and nuts
        • Almonds, cashews, pistachios
        • Granola (if the bar won't crumble)
        • Raisins in yogurt glaze
        • Drying
        • Dried mango or banana
      2. Be prepared to drink plenty of water. Flying dehydrates the body, so drink plenty of fluids. Although it will not be possible to bring a bottle of water on board, it will be possible to buy it in the terminal before boarding. Every time you're offered water, don't refuse because you never know when the flight attendant will offer it next. Of course, you can ask for water when she passes by, but it's easier to agree when offered.

        • Drink more water important, but it means you have to go to the bathroom often. This is very inconvenient, especially if you have a window seat, as you will disturb people. Try to find a state in which your bladder is not full all the time, but you will not be thirsty either. Don't forget that it's more important to stay hydrated than to wait until you're dehydrated.
      3. Put eye drops in your bag if you often have dry eyes. This will protect your eyes from dryness on board. It is not necessary to take them with you, but it will be much more pleasant for you. There's nothing worse than feeling dry in the first hour of a ten-hour flight and realizing there's nothing you can do about it.

        • The bottle must be very small, otherwise it will not be allowed to be carried into the salon.
      4. Move during the flight. It has been found that the risk of venous thrombosis increases if the flight lasts more than 4 hours. Mobility will help you prevent this. Try to walk around the salon whenever possible, stretch, bend, so that blood circulation accelerates. Wear loose and comfortable clothing. Here are a few useful tips:

        Take any medications you may need with you. Keep your first aid kit stocked with anti-nausea, pain relievers, sleeping pills, and medications you usually take so you don't need help during the flight. Be sure to bring your usual medications, as well as painkillers, in case you get a headache, neck, or any other pain.

        • If you want to take sleeping pills with you to fall asleep on the plane, try taking it before the flight first. You should not drink sleeping pills for the first time on board, otherwise it can turn into unpleasant consequences on the plane and after landing.

      Airline choice

      1. Select comfortable spot in advance. Although, of course, someone will have to sit in the middle, you better take care of the place before departure. First, decide which place you like best - by the window or near the aisle. If the flight is long, sometimes it is better to sit near the aisle, as this will more space. You can pull them out into the aisle without fear of disturbing the passengers. Some people prefer window seats because you can lean against the window and the view is nicer. Whatever you choose, here are a few suggestions:

        • You can usually select a seat when you check in for your flight. Do not neglect this, even if you are in a hurry.
        • If you didn't choose a seat when you checked in online, try to do so when you check in at the airport or even at the terminal. It is possible that the plane will be full and you will not have the opportunity to change seats with someone, but it is still worth a try.
        • You can choose a seat closer to the beginning of the cabin to get on and off the plane earlier. The downside is that you may be far from the toilet.
        • It's better to sit near emergency exit- there will be more legroom.
        • Don't pick seats in a row before emergency exit - some of the seats there do not recline.
        • Don't land at the tail of the plane. The chairs in the last row most often do not recline, and they are closest to the toilet, so the smell there will not be the most pleasant.
      2. If you are bringing very young children with you, make sure you have space for them. It's cheaper to carry a baby on your lap (and you don't buy a seat for the baby), but it's not as safe as a separate baby seat (many airlines allow you to put a child seat in a regular one). In addition, you are unlikely to be allowed to fly with a baby on your lap for a long distance.

        If you are flying with a transfer, try to avoid small intervals between flights. If you are flying from San Francisco to Paris, you may want to transfer in Brussels without more than an hour However, it is better to choose flights with an interval of at least two to three hours. If you are flying abroad, you will have to go through passport control and screening, and this, like finding the right terminal at an unfamiliar airport, can be time consuming. If you want a smooth flight, choose flights between which there will be enough time for everything.

        Find out if you can sleep in a recumbent seat in business class. If you manage to sleep on the plane, you will feel better when you arrive at your destination, and it will be easier for you to overcome jet lag. The only downside here is the price. Of course, you can use the accumulated points to pay for business class or even stumble upon a very good deal, but as a rule, business class is expensive. Explore all available options to see if it's worth paying extra for the comfort. Either way, you won't know until you try.

        Find out what food will be on board. Most lines have a large selection of products in international and long flights, however, if your diet requires special meals, you need Necessarily indicate this when registering. 24 hours before departure, check if the information regarding your diet has been saved correctly. You don't want to get on a plane and realize that you can't eat anything they offer you because your notes got lost somewhere.

        Think about all health-related issues in advance. Call the carrier if you have special requests for food, mobility (such as crutches or a wheelchair), or other questions. It is best to do this 12-24 hours before departure. Make sure you have all the medicines and prescriptions you need with you. It is important to be prepared for situations of any health problems.

        • If you have motion sickness, take motion sickness medication or ginger lozenges with you. Read the instructions for the drug: usually such drugs should be taken two hours before the flight.
      3. Check out the list of restrictions before before you go to the airport with your luggage. If you have to throw away a knife you cherish just because you packed it in your hand luggage instead of checking it in, it will be very disappointing. In addition, at all airports and on the websites of all airlines you can find a list of items and substances prohibited for transportation.

        • Remember that baggage also has weight and size restrictions. It's not so scary to lose a knife as to pay for the advantage! If your hand luggage is too large, you should be aware of this in advance. Read the carrier's website for all baggage requirements.

      Pre-flight preparation

      1. Get enough sleep before the plane. You may decide to sleep on board, but this is not always possible as the passengers next to you may be too talkative and active. In addition, if your body is weakened, you can catch a cold from other passengers in a confined space, which would not happen if you were in good shape. It is important that both children and adults get a good night's sleep before the flight and do not get nervous at the airport and on board the aircraft.

        If you feel unwell, be prepared to prove that you are not contagious. If you have chickenpox in the last phase of your illness or if you have a cough after a prolonged flu, carry a doctor's note authorizing you to fly (where it would be indicated that you already not contagious). If at the screening the staff considers that you are contagious, you will not be allowed on the flight. It is also important to bring prescriptions for medicines with you to avoid charges of drug smuggling. Read as much as you can about it before departure.

        Find out what the weather will be like at your destination. This will allow you to take the right things with you and choose your clothes for the flight. It will be very uncomfortable for you if you get off the plane in a wool sweater somewhere where it's hot and you can't take it off because there won't be a short-sleeve shirt underneath. It may be the other way around. Always keep outerwear with you in case you have to walk down the street from the plane to the terminal. You won't like walking in the snow in sandals and shorts.

        Prepare all necessary documents. Make sure the passports of all people flying with you are valid. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months from the start of your trip. It is important to remember the following:

        • Get visas in advance. Much easier to get it before departure than standing in line at an unfamiliar airport and worrying about whether they will let you in.
        • Have foreign currency, traveler's checks and credit cards ready if you are flying overseas. Find out the rates of your bank.
      2. Get vaccinated. It's easy to forget about it, so ask your doctor if you need vaccinations beforehand. If you need to take medication with you, tell your doctor how long you will be leaving. Do not think that you will buy the necessary medicines in the country of destination - there you may encounter various difficulties.

        Pack your essentials a few days before your trip. This applies to clothes, medicines, tickets, passports and bath accessories. It's best to make a list of what you need so you don't forget anything. In addition, this list will help you understand what is missing if your items get lost on a flight.

        • Tell neighbors, friends or relatives what to do if emergency relating to your property (house, car, etc.), your pets, children, or relatives who are left in your home.
      3. Decide how you will get to the airport. A long flight usually means you will be away for a long time, so you are unlikely to drive to the airport. However, you should find out the cost of long-term parking, as this option may suit you, especially if you are afraid to leave your car at home. At some airports, the cost of such parking will be relatively low. You can also rent a car, drive to shuttle bus, take a taxi or ask someone to give you a ride. The last option is best, because this is how a loved one guides you.

      4. Try to arrive 2-3 hours before departure if you are heading overseas. If you need help with moving (for example, you are in a wheelchair), it is best to arrive as early as possible so that the airport staff can take you to right place on time without sacrificing comfort. If you arrive too early and don't know what to do, look around - all airports offer books, games, newspapers and other entertainment options.

        • While you're waiting for your flight, read articles on how to get comfortable on board.
      • Be polite to flight attendants and all airline personnel. Your sweet smile can give you an unexpected bonus on your next flights, and a boorish attitude - a place next to the toilet.
      • Arrive at the airport two and a half hours before the flight departure. This will give you enough time to eat, buy books for the flight, and go to the bathroom. Otherwise, everything will have to be done in a hurry, which is why the flight can hardly be called pleasant. Please be aware that the new rules may delay the baggage and body search process.
      • Take cosmetics and hygiene products in your hand luggage, which will last for several days. You should also pack clean linen in there in case your luggage gets lost.
      • Pack your medications in your hand luggage.
      • If you have problems with ear pressure (such as tinnitus), take earplugs in your hand luggage. Air pressure in an aircraft can be constant; in addition, there is always an air conditioning system on board, so you can do without them. Earplugs and sleep masks can block out unwanted noise and light when you feel like taking a nap.
      • Check the airline brochure (usually located in the back seat pocket in front of you) to find out what to use during the flight forbidden. You don't want your brand new phone to be confiscated.
      • If you are flying abroad, buy adapters for electrical appliances.
      • Say goodbye to friends and relatives who don't see you off at the airport. Leave them your contact details for emergencies. It is also best to leave them details of your flights, arrangements, addresses of hotels and other places where you will be staying, and phone number in roaming. In addition, leave a copy of your passport, traveler's checks, card numbers (choose only close people you trust). If your luggage is lost or you have financial difficulties, these people will help you.
      • Talk to your nurse about bottle feeding your baby during takeoff and landing to avoid ear discomfort.
      • Ask a trusted neighbor to park your car differently every day if you're away for a long time. If you live in a private home, offer him to also park his car near your gate.
      • If you have animals and a garden, you should hire someone to look after them. It is best to choose such people from relatives. Teenagers will be able to prove to their parents that they can be entrusted with a responsible task.

      Warnings

      • Don't rely on just one source of in-flight entertainment - anything can happen. Your player may run out of power, your in-flight entertainment system may also malfunction, and so on.
      • Try not to get up from your seat when the flight attendants are pushing the food cart. Other passengers and flight attendants will have to move and it will be inconvenient. Also try not to walk through the rows at this time.
      • If you are using a shuttle to get to the airport, leave about an hour earlier than you should. The transfer will pick up other people in your area, and they may be late, but you are. This is especially important on a return flight and if you're in a favorite vacation spot where a lot of people use the transfer, as it's usually half the price of a taxi. So you will avoid problems over time.
      • Don't tell everyone about your vacation. It's important to keep friends and family informed of your plans, but multiple tweets like "hooray, I'm going to Mexico tomorrow for two weeks" are highly undesirable. Someone may decide to break into your house while you are away.
      • There are many travel bans because airlines and airports place a lot of demands on passengers. You'll learn about them soon, but here are a few:
        • Do not carry items that are prohibited by your home or host airport. This is extremely important. Check with the airline or travel agency and find out what items are allowed on the plane.
        • Do not get up when the seat belt sign is on.
        • Do not ignore the pilot's command to turn off the electronics. During landing, electrical appliances may interfere.
        • Don't be stupid: don't threaten the pilot and don't joke about the bomb or the terrorists on board.
        • Do not use a phone (if it does not support airplane mode) or any other type of wireless transmitter/receiver (such as a laptop, Nintendo DS, etc.) as these signals may interfere with aircraft navigation. Remember to put your phone or any other source of such signals into flight mode.
      • Be prepared to do small warm-ups to avoid vein thrombosis. From time to time, move your legs or get up and go to the toilet. Do a few light stretches in the aisle (be careful not to injure a sleeping passenger or a flight attendant!). Some flights with private TVs offer videos of stretching exercises that you can do on your seat.

      What will you need

      • Puzzle book
      • MP3 player
      • Pillow and blanket for travel - many airlines provide these, so find out beforehand; the less stress on you, the better for your posture
      • Snacking is especially important if you are always hungry or on a specific diet.
      • Board games: magnetic games, cards and dice are the best choice
      • Magazines: grab a few at the airport so you don't have to carry them around
      • Good book: a long novel will suffice, but an e-book with big amount downloaded books - it's even better
      • DVD player: optional, unlikely to come in handy
      • Chargers for electronics: never forget about them!
      • Passports and tickets: Mandatory
      • Pens and pencils: colored for all ages, ordinary - for adults and writers
      • A change of underwear can really make a difference. After a few hours of traveling, it's almost like taking a shower. Bring a resealable laundry bag with you.
      • Baby wipes: a quick and easy way to freshen up on a long flight
  • How to feel good while flying on an airplane. How not to be afraid of flying in an airplane?

    Summer is the holiday season. Many of us will travel aboard the Iron Bird. What problems can await us during the flight? And how can they be prevented?

    Everyone knows, according to statistics, automobile transport much more dangerous than aviation. And yet: if we get into the car quite calmly, then during the flight on an airplane, 50% of passengers experience jitters of varying degrees of intensity, and 20% completely fall into a real panic. There are also people who never fly anywhere at all - they are scared! I don’t know about you, but every time I get on board an airplane, it’s not without fear. But the thirst for adventure invariably takes precedence over the fear of heights. And I'm flying-u-u! I'm afraid, but I'm healing. And some simple tricks help me to be less afraid...

    Make inquiries

    The hero of the film "Rain Man" categorically refused to fly on all airlines, except for the Australian "Qantas". “This is the only airline in the world that has not had a single serious accident on board!” he explained his refusal. Before buying a plane ticket, take an interest in the reputation of the airline, read the reviews of passengers on the Internet. By choosing the most worthy option, under the clouds you will feel much calmer and more confident.

    In "Duty Free" for the mood

    We women are well aware that shopping is great way relieve stress. When check-in, passport control and other worries are left behind, take a stroll through the shops and please yourself with pleasant gifts. Nervous tension will go away, and a bottle of wonderful perfume or a jar of good cream will warm your soul throughout the flight.

    Grab a gum for the road

    Scientists have come to the conclusion that chewing gum or sucking on hard candies quickly relieves stress and muscle tension.

    This is explained by the fact that, being on edge, we sometimes unconsciously strive to return to that carefree time when the trees were big, we were small, and wise adults decided all the issues for us ... Chewing or sucking very much contributes to immersion in childhood. It is not for nothing that babies are given pacifiers to calm them down.

    We smile and...

    If you feel like you are starting to panic, smile. When we smile or laugh, we tense certain facial muscles. But even if you are not laughing, and you “put on” a smile on your face, your facial muscles remember the joy and transmit the appropriate signals to the brain. Sit for 15 minutes with your mouth stretched to your ears - anxiety and tension will begin to disappear, you'll see!

    ...and breathe

    Inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Moreover, the exhalation should be twice as long as the inhalation. Breathe like this for a while, and soon a relaxation reaction will start in the body: the heart rate will slow down, and the muscles will relax. Now close your eyes and imagine that when you breathe out, anxiety and tension leave you. Imagine your restless thoughts in the form of a stream that flows away with the exhaled air.

    Speedometer needle

    If you're tense, try measuring your tension with an imaginary speedometer. Imagine this very speedometer with your own eyes. Here his arrow goes up, at what number did it stop? And now we take a deep breath and imagine how the arrow creeps down, and your peace of mind is restored.

    You are not alone

    In the end, if you are a believer, pray to God, your guardian angel or saint who is "responsible" for travel. Believe that you are under the protection of higher powers, which means that everything will be fine with you - both in heaven and on earth.

    Economy Class Syndrome

    Another problem that may lie in wait for an air passenger is thrombosis. This misfortune threatens those (and we are the majority!) who prefer to buy tickets cheaper. Squeezing into the cabin as much as possible seats, airlines doom people to temporary immobility. And long sitting in the same position, low pressure and dry air in an airliner lead to thickening of the blood and the formation of blood clots. One of them can enter the lungs and block the pulmonary artery. And then even a lethal outcome is probable. To avoid trouble, follow simple rules:

    ◈ DON'T LET YOURSELF DRY. Stop drinking alcohol a couple of days before your flight. And even more so, it is worth abandoning them during the flight. The fact is that alcohol causes dehydration and makes the blood even thicker, which means that the risk of thrombosis increases significantly. But pure non-carbonated water, on the contrary, you need to drink as much as possible.

    ◈ THE MAIN THING IS COMFORT. Sometimes, with regret, one has to watch how our compatriots walk to the plane's gangway in high heels, in tight, beautiful, but terribly uncomfortable outfits. (It is by this uniform that Russian women are easily recognized at any airport in the world.) Why all this, dear ladies? Beauty, of course, requires sacrifice, but certainly not in this case. It is much wiser to wear loose, comfortable clothing and flat shoes for the duration of the flight. It is even better to get special compression stockings (they prevent blood clots) and wear them on the flight. And only then, having safely arrived on vacation, show yourself in all its glory - even on stilettos, even on a wedge.

    ◈ CHARGING UNDER THE SKY. During the flight, take frequent walks around the cabin. And when you sit, don't cross your legs. Do simple exercises more often: roll your feet from heel to toe and back, stretch and tighten your toes, make slow head turns to the right and left, clench and unclench your fists. Disperse the blood! And most importantly, remember: the purpose of your trip will certainly compensate for the small inconveniences that you will have to endure during the flight. Good luck and soft landing!

    star aerophobes

    Among the celebrities who try to avoid flights are Alla Pugacheva, Cher, Whoopi Goldberg ... And the main star aerophobe is Adriano Celentano. On an airplane, he flew only once in his life - in Soviet Union in 1987.

    Simply magical

    ◈ The patron saint of travelers is St. Nicholas the Wonderworker - it is from him that Orthodox believers seek protection along the way.

    ◈ Talisman stones that help on the road - zircon, aquamarine and blue jasper.

    ◈ Rune for going to distant lands - "Raido".

    How to adapt to a new climate

    Acclimatization is the same fly in the ointment that can spoil the impressions of a vacation in any paradise Earth. Usually this attack is manifested by food poisoning or a cold and lasts from 3 to 7 days. To relieve the symptoms of acclimatization, follow these rules:

    ◈ Take a vacation for at least two weeks - then the body will have time to adapt to the unusual environment, and you will have a good rest.

    ◈ Calculate the time so that you arrive at the resort in the evening. In this case, you will have a whole night to recuperate. And if you arrive on vacation in the morning and actively engage in entertainment program- Overloads can not be avoided. The body may fail.

    ◈ Doctors advise a week or two before the trip to start taking herbal preparations - adaptogens - based on ginseng or eleutherococcus. And having arrived on vacation, drink ascorbic acid for the first few days.

    Are there many Russians who have never flown in an airplane in their lives? According to opinion polls in 2009 - almost half. Until recently, you were one of them, but now, by desire or by necessity, you go to heaven? You have many new and interesting experiences ahead of you!

    The first trip by plane is not only a storm of emotions, but also a lot of practical tasks. You need to remember a thousand details: what to take with you, how much to arrive for registration, where to go at the airport ... A person with little experience often gets confused in the little things and forgets about them out of excitement. For novice travelers, this memo is intended - it can greatly facilitate pre-flight preparation.

    Check-in for a flight opens on average three hours before departure and ends approximately 40-50 minutes before it. Most airlines recommend that passengers arrive at the airport 3-2.5 hours before departure. It's better to do it the first time. The later you arrive at the airport, the more hectic and rushed. If you know that there is still a lot of time left, then you will not rush and worry.

    Some companies offer a service such as online check-in for flights via the Internet. As a rule, it opens a day before the flight. In this situation, you can check in for a flight while at home or at work - all you need is a computer with internet. To do this, you need to go to the website of your airline. Upon successful registration, the system will generate boarding pass which you must print. There is a separate counter at the airport for online registered passengers where you can check in your luggage.

    If check-in via the Internet is not available to you for some reason or simply confuses you, you can use the traditional form upon arrival at the airport. At the check-in desk, you choose your seat on the plane and check in your luggage. Here you need to be especially careful. If you are flying in economy class, you have the right to carry no more than 20 kg of baggage free of charge, in business class - no more than 30 kg. They weigh him at the front desk. Please note that the weight of the suitcase is not separated from the weight of the luggage. If you are taking a lot of things with you (18-19 kg), the suitcase should be as light as possible. Otherwise, an excess may occur, which you will pay additionally according to the airline's tariffs. Information about how much an overweight is usually posted at the front desk.

    You can take some things with you into the cabin of the aircraft - this is the so-called hand luggage. First of all, this concerns fragile electronic equipment: a laptop, a camera, a camcorder. It is categorically not recommended to check them in luggage - there is a high risk that things will be damaged along the way. The same goes for fragile souvenirs.

    It is forbidden to carry in hand luggage:

    Liquids in vials over 100 ml;

    Flammable and explosive substances (acetone, hairspray);

    Stab and cutting objects(knives, nail scissors);

    Heavy items that exceed the weight limit for carry-on baggage. Information about these restrictions is usually available on the airline's website, and it is useful to ask about this at home, while packing your luggage.

    It is easy to guess that it is better to divide things into luggage and hand luggage at home, a day or two before the trip, and not at the check-in desk at the airport.

    After check-in, you need to go through a series of procedures: customs control (on international flights), passport control and security screening. When leaving Russia, you need to make a declaration cultural values, weapon, gems and some other goods. But other countries have their own rules and regulations. It is better to find out what goods need to be declared at a foreign customs office in advance, via the Internet or special customs guides.

    If you are flying on an international flight, passport control You must present a valid passport. Internal passport You will need the Russian Federation only when flying within Russia; you can not take it on international flights at all.

    Security control is carried out as follows. You take off your shoes, put your shoes, hand luggage and outerwear in a special pallet. Then go through the metal detector while your belongings go through the x-ray scanner at the same time. It is also better to prepare for security control in advance: remove metal jewelry, a jacket with a metal zipper, remove a belt from trousers, keys, a cell phone, put small iron money in a bag or purse.

    “Will I “squeak” if I have dental crowns?”- This is a question that often worries passengers flying for the first time. As a rule, modern metal detectors do not respond to crowns made of cobalt-chromium and gold-platinum alloy, since the mass of dentures is small. You also do not need to remove gold earrings and wedding rings in front of the “frame” - most metal detectors do not focus on small amounts of gold. But cigarettes or condoms on a metal detector most often “beep”, so it’s better to put them out of your pockets too. The packaging of these items contains aluminum, and most of the "frames" are sensitive to this metal.

    Be careful when selecting things in hand luggage if you are flying with a connection. Some foreign airports have very strict security rules (in particular, this applies to EU countries, where they can seize, for example, mascara at security control).

    What to do after all procedures are completed? As a rule, passengers start to board the plane approximately 40 minutes before departure. If there is at least an hour left before departure, you can walk around the airport, go to duty free shops. IN major airports there are several of them, and the assortment in them may be different. Ahead of a long flight - more than four hours? Then all the more worth a walk. You still have time to sit in a chair, moreover, by the end of the flight you will already want to get up.

    No need to queue for boarding an hour before departure. If you go to the plane by bus, the one who gets there last wins, not the first. Those standing at the beginning of the queue will enter the cabin first, only if a "sleeve" is given to the plane (this is a metal "gut" from the gate to the plane). So do not worry - in any case, you will get on the plane and sit in the seat you received.

    What clothes to go on a flight? The temperature in the aircraft cabin usually fluctuates around 22 degrees + - 2 points. You need to focus on the time of year. If the weather is cold at the airport of departure, and hot at the point of arrival, dress compactly. It is better to leave fur coats and sheepskin coats at home - they will only interfere with you in economy class seats, especially if the flight is long. The ideal option is a winter jacket that can be removed, rolled up and packed in a large bag. By the way, such clothes can also come in handy in the opposite situation - if you fly "from summer to winter." You can take a bag with a jacket into the cabin as hand luggage and get dressed after boarding. It is easy to guess that it is better not to hand over warm clothes in luggage in such a situation.

    Many travelers traveling "from winter to summer" take a bag with light shoes and clothes to the cabin. You can change clothes right in the toilet of the aircraft. This is not very comfortable, but still better than being in a winter jacket under the rays of the tropical sun.

    You need to take care not only about clothes, but also about shoes. It is extremely hot to fly in warm winter boots, so take warm socks into the cabin during the cold season. Your feet will be much more comfortable in them. It is strictly not recommended to wear tight shoes during the flight. It increases the already considerable load on the vessels of the lower extremities, while the risk of vein thrombosis also increases.

    remember, that Air in the cabin is very dry. If you wear contact lenses, you should take eye drops with you on the flight, as unpleasant painful sensations appear when the mucous membrane dries out. On long flights it is better to travel with glasses.

    Don't drink a lot of alcohol if you're flying for the first time! First you need to know how your vestibular system will respond to the movement of the aircraft. Sometimes novice air travelers experience nausea or dizziness when climbing or turning the plane. And in this case, drunk alcohol can enhance the natural reactions of the body.

    If you have already experienced seasickness, choose a seat near the wing, bring plenty of sour candies with you to the cabin, and do not drink alcohol - it can increase nausea and dizziness. Also, a proven remedy for motion sickness, which you have already used before, will not be superfluous.

    Even the most short trip can be completely spoiled by crying children, annoying neighbors or uncomfortable place. But what if you are going, say, from Moscow to Sydney and the flight will take about a day? We have collected simple and effective tips on how not to turn air travel into an air nightmare.

    An unsuccessful flight can overshadow several days at once and leave an unpleasant aftertaste from the entire trip. Of course, all hardships can be treated philosophically, but having paid a lot of money for tickets, you don’t want to meditate for 20 hours, trying to ignore a child’s cry or a neighbor laughing out loud at an old and not funny movie. In short, here are some tips on how to survive a long flight and leave the cabin in a good mood.

    Book tickets in advance

    This is clear without further ado: the earlier you buy a ticket, the more chances on good places. Not to mention their better value.

    Sit in the back

    If you don't have a favorite seat on the plane (or it's already taken), sit in the back seat. Usually everyone tries to sit in front, so you will have a chance for empty adjacent seats.


    Photo: shutterstock.com 3

    Use your accumulated miles

    If you have perks, don't be greedy and use them! You'll thank yourself for that as you sit back in your first-class chair with a glass of 2004 Chateau Latour and pretend to love caviar.

    Prepare for jet lag

    There are several tricks to avoid problems when changing time zones, or at least minimize this effect. A few days before the flight, start adjusting your body to the planned trip and the time zone of the destination country. Get a good rest before the flight: the myth that you need to stay up the night before the trip to prepare for the change of time does not work.

    Pass control in advance

    The last thing you want before a long and grueling flight is to jostling in line and panicking about missing your flight. Worse than actually being late for it.


    Photo: shutterstock.com 6

    Relax before your flight

    Eat breakfast slowly, go to the gym, read a book, go to the gym again: you will have to spend the next day in a sitting position, destroying a giant package of Toblerons.

    Don't take too many things into the salon

    Of course, for a long flight, you will need a lot more things on hand than with a 2-hour trip, but you don’t need to lug a bunch of electronics, gadgets, unread books and booze from duty free. The benefits of all this are much less than the inconvenience.

    Be sure to take a pillow

    Every airport sells pillows for travelers - this is simply an indispensable thing for long flight. It is better to look ridiculous in the eyes of other passengers than to earn neck problems.


    Photo: from-ua.com 9

    Your best friend is noise canceling headphones

    If there are none on the farm, you can get by with high-quality earplugs.

    Don't forget your sleep mask

    It will definitely come in handy in the salon, especially during the daytime or if your neighbor has bright and annoying clothes.

    Dress properly

    The main thing is your comfort: do not think about how to impress others. Take care also of blankets and (why not?) pajamas.

    Try to relax

    Listen to soothing music, do breathing exercises. This is useful not only for normal sleep, but also for the psychological state in general. After all, if all else fails, Valium can come to the rescue.


    Photo: shutterstock.com 13

    On a long flight, nowhere without a blanket

    It makes no sense to take a very thick blanket with you: it will simply eat up all your luggage space. An ideal option would be a cashmere blanket or a special travel poncho cover (they are sold both at airports and on the Internet).

    Download a couple of movies in reserve

    Aircraft entertainment systems are not always reliable. Sometimes they stop working, so having a few movies in reserve on your tablet or phone is a must.

    Charge your gadgets

    The last thing you need is a tablet running out of power in the middle of the final episode of Fargo. Especially if there are still 11 hours of flight to the destination.


    Photo: shutterstock.com 16

    Podcasts, podcasts and more podcasts

    Pump up before the road as much as possible. In flight, podcasts of your favorite shows can be useful: audio playback does not drain the battery as quickly, and podcasts themselves are much more distracting than music.

    Think health

    Sitting all day in one place in a metal box is not good for the body. Added to this is dehydration with deep vein thrombosis - two of your main enemies when flying. Drink water regularly, stretch, walk around the salon.

    Don't Forget About Hygiene

    Take toiletries to the salon, brush your teeth, use deodorant, change clothes if necessary. The main thing is to do all this in the restroom, and not in the cabin.

    Get creative

    How often do you get the opportunity to sit for about a day alone with your thoughts, without outside interference (well, almost without it)? Grab a notebook, sketchbook, or something like that with you and exercise your right brain.


    Photo: shutterstock.com 20

    Work is a great distraction

    If you brought a laptop with you, this is a great reason to do the work that you have been putting off for a long time. In addition, you will have the appearance of a solid international businessman who decides the fate of multi-million dollar contracts.

    Take snacks with you

    Airplane meals usually do not suffer from redundancy and variety, even during many hours of flights. When you have the urge to snack, energy bars, thrifty in your pocket, will instantly lift your spirits.

    Change the clock

    Once on board the plane, the first thing to do is set your watch to the time of your destination. Look at them periodically, get used to a different time zone and make plans based on the new time.

    Drink

    During many hours of air travel, alcohol is usually free. If there is absolutely nothing to do, why not have a few drinks and engage in an interesting (or not so) conversation with a neighbor? This will help kill at least an hour of time.


    Photo: shutterstock.com 24

    Don't drink

    Drinking alcohol at an altitude of 9-10 kilometers above the ground is not a good idea. Pressure, dizziness, nausea, dehydration. The list goes on.

    Practice your "killer look"

    Does the child scream loudly, act up and run down the aisle? Killer look. The guy in the back has been pushing your chair for three hours? Killer look. Neighbor loudly rude to the stewardess? Killer look. A multi-hour flight is perfect place for practice. Train, improve it - such a look will come in handy.