At this point, the festive season is well upon us and countless people in Kuwait are jetting off for the holidays. However, flying to a faraway destination is often the low-point of the trip. Not to worry, bazaar – and the Grinch – have some tips to make it a slightly smoother ride.
1.Get to the airport on time
For some people, breezing into the airport with only 15 minutes until boarding time is nothing to worry about. For others, potentially missing a flight is an anxiety-inducing disaster. Remember, catching a flight can be a pain and stress-free affair if you get there in time. Make sure your suitcases are almost completely packed two days before you’re leaving. This gives you time to remember all the little things you’re certain to have forgotten and make the drive there less stressful.
2.Be comfortable
Choosing an outfit to wear when you’re traveling is another important part of preparing for a long journey. Regardless of the length of your journey, you need to be wearing comfortable clothes and shoes. For some people, these are pyjamas and slippers, for others, these are heels and skinny jeans. Just remember that tight clothes will restrict your movement and your feet are likely to swell during the journey. Either way, feeling #freshtodeath in whatever you’re wearing will make the arrivals hall feel like a catwalk. Yaaaas, queen. Strut.
3.Plan your entertainment
When you’re faced with a 10h+ journey, planning your time is paramount. It makes the time feel more manageable and – even if you don’t stick to it – gives you something to look forward to. You can find online copies of the in-flight entertainment program and watch some of the most recently released movies and music, as well as the standard golden oldies.
4.Make friends
As daunting as meeting new people might seem in normal circumstances, it is worth getting to know the person you’ll be fighting for the armrest. Casual chit-chat will make the hours fly by and might result in you meeting a really interesting person or sparking a friendship. Even if the conversation dries up and their snoring gets on your nerves, the chances of you ever seeing them again is extremely unlikely.
5.Get some shut-eye
There are some (very lucky) people out there who can pass out for the entire duration of a flight, arriving feeling refreshed and rested. For us mere mortals, it isn’t so easy. Make sure you’re equipped with everything you need to feel comfortable and drift off. Although some airlines provide a mini sleep kit (consisting of a sleep mask, ear plugs, warm socks, toothbrush and toothpaste, etc.), you may have to bring these items with you in your hand luggage. Performing your evening routine – whether it be drinking a cup of tea or washing your face – will tell your body that it’s time to wind down and make napping even easier.
6.Bring along your favorite snacks
When it comes to plane food, it’s either love or hate. Some people look forward to the little 8-course meals while others forgo them entirely. Eating large amounts of food when you’re in a seated position can wreak havoc on your digestive system and leave you feeling bloated. One of the best ways to avoid this is to bring your own snacks onto the plane with you. My personal favourites are unsalted nuts and fresh fruit. It is best to avoid any salted snacks, as they contribute to the dreaded dehydration so many people experience while flying.
7.Arrive in style
Whether you’re arriving to a crowd of family members or are on a solo vacation, walking through the sliding doors to a sea of faces feels incredible. One of the best ways to look and feel your best on your arrival is to drink lots of water throughout the journey and douse yourself in coconut oil. It is a good idea to apply a thick layer of coconut oil to your face and lips about 2 hours before your plane is due to land and wash it off just before the seat-belt signs go on. After that, you’ll look radiant when you walk through those doors and be well on your way to an excellent holiday.