10 ways to make flying less painful

ByABC News
November 5, 2008, 4:01 PM

— -- Dread flying? Is it the inevitable delays, the cramped seats, or the expensive snacks? Or maybe it has more to do with the dehydration, recycled air, and chilly cabins? In the spirit of happy and healthy holidays, here are 10 ways to make your next flight more comfortable.

Snag a good seat

If you're taller than 5'9", you know that whatever the airlines may claim, those seats were not built for you. If you're tall and even a little bit claustrophobic, sitting in an airline seat for any length of time can feel like a punishment. This is why it's not a bad idea to strive (and maybe even pay a bit extra for) a seat with more legroom. In coach, that means seeking out the exit row or bulkhead seats. You'll get more legroom and a little breathing space as well, which can make all the difference in a space as cramped as an airplane cabin. SmarterTravel.com sister site Seat Guru can help you find a roomier seat.

Wear noise-canceling headphones

The overpowering drone of airplane engines can interfere with sleep and make for a more stressful flight. Noise-canceling headphones replace the cabin and engine sounds with white noise or music. You can also plug them into seat jacks and make in-flight movie or television watching more pleasant. On the downside, they're pricier than most headphones ($100 and up), but they last for years and are a great way to drown out soundsbabies crying or people having loud political arguments, for examplein other situations as well.

Carry a water bottle

Don't want to be at the mercy of flight attendants who you suspect don't really care if you're thirsty? Achieve hydration independence: Bring an empty bottle through security and fill it up on the other side. If space is at a premium, look into water bottles that can be collapsed when not in use. If you're concerned about plastic, there are options such as Klean Kanteen steel or Sigg aluminum bottles.

Fight dehydration

Dehydration is a real issue in the air: It can increase the effects of jetlag upon arrival or just leave you feeling icky. The first rule of hydration is, of course, to drink enough water, which you can do whenever you want if you bring your own water bottle. But you can fend off stinging, dry eyes by also packing some moisturizing eye drops, and keep your skin supple with a little bottle of lotion. Both are allowed though security as long as the containers aren't larger than three ounces.