One of the most searched phrases when it comes to traveling, is “how to get over fear of flying.”
Fun fact: Did you know that 1 in 3 adults in America have a fear of (or are anxious about) flying? If you’re one of those people, you’re not alone! If it makes you feel any better, it’s been said that the chances of being in an airplane accident is 1 in 11 million, so don’t worry, the odds are in your favor…
So, to ease your worries, here are some tips on how to get over fear of flying.
1. Trust the pilots
This is self-explanatory. One of the many things people who are scared of flying do, is have zero trust for the pilots. The process of becoming a pilot is pretty intense. They’re required to do a training program that lasts over 2 years and of course, have to do lots and lots of studying. So, it’s safe to say, you’re in good hands!
2. Don’t freak out when there’s turbulence
If you’ve ever flown on a plane, chances are you’ve hit some turbulence. To put it simply, turbulence can be when you’re going through strong winds where it makes the airplane a little shakey. It’s a normal thing to expect when you’re flying, so next time it happens, don’t freak out, it won’t last long and everything is under control!
3. Meditate
Meditation is really good for your mind, body, and soul. While meditating, reassure yourself that everything will be okay… Many of your thoughts about flying are most likely just you overthinking!
4. Be prepared for the flight
Something that has helped me to relax on / before my flight is packing a carry-on with a few activities. While on my flight, I’ll take out a book to read, watch a movie, or listen to music. These things help me to stay occupied and before you know it, your flight will be over.
5. Eating
This probably sounds super weird, but it’s actually helped me a lot! Eating my favorite snacks helps me to stay relaxed and also keeps me busy on my flight. Plus, who doesn’t love eating?
6. Pick your seat
Let’s be real, does anyone know of someone who actually wants to sit in the middle seat? While purchasing your ticket, choose the seat that will make you most comfortable during your flight. The most popular seat is the window seat, but the aisle seat isn’t a bad call either! Also, the back of the plane tends to be the most bumpy, so try and pick a seat towards the front.
7. Take deep breaths
This ties in with meditation… Take deep breaths to relax yourself. Control your breathing by taking a deep breath in, holding it for a couple seconds, then exhaling slowly – It’ll calm you down!
8. Learn the safety features
Before your flight, read about the type of plane that you’ll be boarding. Figure out where the exits will be, where they keep the lifejackets, and how to work the oxygen masks. Although you most likely won’t need to know any of that information, knowing will help you feel more prepared if anything were to go wrong.
9. Take a ‘Fear of Flying’ class
Yup, this is a real thing! There are tons of online courses and actual classes where professionals help you overcome your fear, or at least make you more confident in flying. Just google it to find the closest one nearest you.
10. Take medication
If none of the above tips help, try out an anxiety medication. Just make sure to consult with a doctor beforehand.
Hopefully applying some of these tips will help you to ease your fear of flying.
Let us know if you have any of your own tips that you think could help others. Good luck and have fun!
