Fun Fact: I am terrified of flying. It’s a terrible fear to have when the thing you love most is traveling. Over the last few months/year I have definitely learned to manage my fear of flying. I may or may not of had a small panic attack halfway over the Bering Straight on the way to Tokyo. But since then, it’s been smooth sailing.
Here are some ways I manage my anxiety while flying:
1. Talk to the person next to you. This is my key to success when traveling alone, especially on my shorter flights. I have met some of the sweetest people while flying and had absolutely no anxiety at all.
2. Meet the Captain/Flight Attendants. I have no shame in introducing myself or talking to the flight attendants. Ask my husband. If they are calm, I am calm.
3. Bring something to do. This seems obvious, but think of any task you have been putting off at home. After the Holidays, I almost always write my “Thank You” cards. The adult coloring books are great because they require concentration. Anything that will stop your mind from wandering.
4. Count down in 10 minute increments. When I was really anxious and could legitimately do nothing on the flight, I would set the timers on my phone (no sound). I would make it through the flight in 10 minute increments, then 15 minutes, then 30 minutes. Looking back, probably not the most efficient because I was so concentrated on flight time.
5. In Flight Entertainment. This is where Southwest and Unite are great. Free In-Flight entertainment. I always make sure my iPad or iPhone is charged then select a movie that I have never seen. This makes the time go a lot faster.
6. Connect to Wifi. This has been my best solution. I always use my points to connect to wifi. Whether is trolling Facebook or editing photos, having my laptop in front of me has cured my anxiety in huge strides.
7. Bulk Seats. More room = Less Anxiety. I really think half of the anxiety of flying comes from being in a small space. Once I have room to spread out, I find myself more relaxed.
8. Early Morning / Late Flights. When I am tired on a flight, I find my brain wandering less to all the “what if” scenarios. These flights tend to be less booked = more room. The dimmed cabin also helps with putting me at ease.
How do you manage your fear of flying?
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I like the idea of counting down in 10-second increments because it gives the brain and activity to do, which draws attention away from the fear. My son has a really bad fear of flying and we just want to make sure he has some coping skills for our next trip. Thank you so much for the coping tips!
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Thanks for this blog post! Many of these tips have helped me manage my fear of flying in planes, especially the one about counting down in increments because it helps me control my breathing. Another way I manage my fear is to read articles about airplane safety. It’s kind of funny, but reading all the different types of mechanical tests (like bond testing and eddy current testing) and other standards airplanes have to meet reassures me of their safety. I’d suggest that others try it out- it’s an underrated technique!