Going on an airplane in 2 days...?

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whtknt

Okay, first off, relax. Air travel is, statistically speaking, the safest means of travel. Problems, including hijackings, are really quite rare. Consider how often you see something in the news about a crash or a hijacking, and then consider that thousands of flights occur every day without any mishaps. If you're really nervous (to the point of being unable to function efficiently), then take a valium (one) and try to unwind a little.

To prepare for your flight, pack a good book in your carry-on bag. I usually carry a book of word puzzles (you can purchase them in the gift shop at most airports), but a novel works just as well. The idea is to keep your mind occupied. If you aren't much of a reader and don't like word puzzles, sleeping is always an option.

Cross-country and international flights often have movies or television during the flight and have headphones available for listening to the radio or show (at a nominal fee). If you have a laptop or a hand-held electronic game, you can generally use them in-flight, through you will have to turn them off during take-off and landing.

During take-off and landing, take a look out the window (or even in mid-flight, if your cruising altitude isn't too high). The views are spectacular! I remember coming into JFK over New York harbor about two years ago and it was absolutely beautiful! Mid-flight typically all you will see are clouds (though this can be very relaxing), but during take-off and landing, you can actually see entire areas of countryside!

Flying is usually pretty smooth and you probably won't even notice once the plane has leveled out at cruising altitude. There is always a possibility of some turbulence, but it is seldom worse that a few potholes in the road. Take-off and landing do bother some people (the change in pressure). Gum chewing can help (and it may aid in popping your ears).

Above all, relax and don't stress over it. I've been traveling by air for almost 40 years and it is still my favorite way to get from one place to another. I love to fly, and it shows!

grisgris0905

I think you will be okay. I wouldn't drug yourself until you experience it for the first time. You'd be missing out on a really fun first-time experience. I was with my husband the first time he rode a plane. I let him have the window seat. After the plane took off he turned to me all excited like a little kid and said, "Wow! What a rush!"

MiKe

The first time for a lot of activities can be stressful. Just relax and enjoy the experience. To me after having taken thousands of flights, the next is still exciting. Its just a great feeling to be flying. Dont be afraid, planes have accidents way less often than do cars.

Thankyou for flying with us, we realise you have a choice of carriers and do appreciate your buisness. The local time in New York is 820 PM. have a safe trip. please remain in your seat till the captain has turned off the seatbelt sign and the plane has come to a stop. Please refrain from smoking tii you raech a designated area at the airport or outside. On behalf of captain Loftoo Flih and your local friendly airlines have a safe trip !!!!

tweeder

Just relax and be calm its not as bad as people put it out to be

nique888

I think that you will be fine - enjoy the trip (and free food)!

rednotdead1976

I don't think you should self-medicate getting on to the plane otherwise you could end up having to do it everytime you fly- plus if it is a good flight over lovely scenery you want to be able to remember and appreciate it.I know it can be scary but you only have to face it the once, because after that you realise there is nothing to worry about, whereas if you have to keep popping the pills that can lead to the anxiety becoming permanent and could lead to a dependency- what happens if you want to fly in the future but can't get the pills or loose them- that would just increase your stress more- so bite the bullet and do it with a clear head- you won't regret it.

island_hopper2

I would consult your doctor. Although most travelers are fine flying, some people do need anti-anxiety medicine... especially if you are already taking Valium or Xanex for anxiety. But relax and try to actually enjoy the flight. Flying can be fun and the views are amazing, and you can always take a nap if you prefer. Good Luck!

curiositycat

You move around less in a plane than you do as a passenger in a car. It's not bad at all. If you think you will experience anxiety, take the medication with you but try it first without it. If you become very anxious, let the personnel of the plane know and they will assist you.

owenlax17

I wouldn't recommend using either, unless you're so deathly afraid to fly that you might cause a disturbance on the flight which could pose a danger to other passengers. Flying's really no big deal; you sit in a chair for a couple hours. I've found that if you're really scared, a good sleep is all you need. You'll wake up as you're landing and not remember a thing about the flight. If you have major issues falling asleep when you're nervous, I'd suggest nyquil or any other mild sleep-aid.

suiki

I am terrified of flying , so when I do , I take 1 xanax and it helps so much. The taking off is the worst part , but it only lasts about 2 minutes.After the plane levels out , you really dont notice your in the air .
You wiil be fine .

trandru

if you honestly think you might need it. i would. i know i suffer from anxiety myself and just to go on long distance trips i need to take a relaxant.
good luck :)

swsbcabg

you'll never know if you actually are scared if you take the pills to knock you out. how about having them in your carry on, and if you start flipping out, then pop them. that way you're good if you do turn out to hate it, and you'll also be good if you turn out to love it. i love to fly, the views can not be beat!

lisette

just relax and enjoy the ride! remember not to bring explosives or drugs, or it will be your last flight!

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