Flight Attendant Tips for Staying Healthy When You Travel
Have you ever wondered how flight attendants stay healthy despite constant jet lag, irregular hours, and high-altitude environments? These professionals have mastered the art of wellness on the go. In this article, we’ll discuss some of their top strategies for maintaining peak health during travels.
Prioritize Sleep
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Getting quality sleep before your trip is like charging your phone before a long day—you’ll be energized to handle whatever the day brings. Depending on the length of the flight and whether it’s transoceanic or transpacific, flight attendants may also need extra sleep during the flight.
Use Layover Time for Physical Activity
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Consider walking or exploring local attractions instead of staying in the hotel during layovers. Physical activities keep you active and help you shake off travel fatigue. Many flight attendants swear by this simple yet effective way to stay healthy and maintain optimal energy levels.
Practice Mindfulness to Manage Stress
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Travel can be a whirlwind, but finding a quiet space, breathing deeply, and staying present can make all the difference. After all, mindfulness isn’t just for yoga studios; it’s a handy tool for staying grounded amid the hustle and bustle of airports and flights.
Maintain Social Connections
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Nobody talks about it enough, but feeling disconnected while traveling can affect your mental well-being. To keep your spirits high, stay in touch with loved ones regularly. Sharing positive and negative experiences strengthens your relationships and provides emotional support during your journey.
Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol
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When cruising at 30,000 feet, it’s easy to forget that your go-to cup of joe or in-flight cocktail can leave you parched. Both caffeine and alcohol are diuretics and increase your chances of dehydration coupled with the dry cabin air. We highly recommend choosing water instead to keep you hydrated and ready to tackle the job.
Avoid Germs in the Lavatory
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When visiting the lavatory, remember that the flush button is a hotspot for germs. To keep things sanitary, grab a tissue or napkin before pressing it. Flight attendants carry out several tasks, and this simple step can help avoid direct contact with bacteria and keep your hands clean.
Avoid wearing Shorts on Airplanes
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Although wearing shorts during a flight might seem comfy, it’s not the best call. Airplane seats and surfaces aren’t always as clean as they appear, and being exposed to them can expose you to unwanted germs. Wear proper pants to add a layer of protection and keep sickness-causing germs at bay.
Inform flight attendants If You Feel Sick During the Flight
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If you feel unwell during the flight, don’t hesitate to inform the cabin crew. They are trained to assist with various in-flight medical situations. The cabin crew can provide support or necessary interventions to ensure your safety, and keeping them in the loop helps them monitor your condition and take appropriate action.
Wear compression Socks During Long Flights
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Sitting for extended periods on long-haul flights can slow blood flow in your legs and increase the risk of swelling or, in rare cases, deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Compression socks apply gentle pressure to your lower legs and promote better circulation to reduce these risks.
Disinfect Your Hands Before Eating
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Airports and planes are teeming with germs, and it’s not always easy to find a sink when on cue. Keeping a travel-sized hand sanitizer within reach lets you clean up before grabbing that in-flight snack. A quick squirt can help keep those unwanted bugs at bay and keep you healthy.
Perform In-flight Exercises
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Long flights can leave you feeling stiff and sluggish. To keep your blood flowing and energy up, try some in-seat exercises. Simple moves like ankle circles, knee lifts, and shoulder rolls can make a big difference. Even a simple short walk, when possible, can keep your circulation in check.
Use the Right Neck Pillow While Sleeping on the Plane
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Catching quality sleep on a flight can be challenging. Fortunately, the solution lies in grabbing a simple neck pillow. Get one that supports your neck’s natural curve and prevents those awkward head bobs. Regardless of whether it’s a memory foam or inflatable, this simple gear can help you arrive at your destination feeling rested.
Adjust to Local Time
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Jet lag can disrupt your rhythm, but syncing with the local time helps. Once you land, follow the destination’s schedule—eat meals and sleep when the locals do. This way, your system adjusts faster and makes your trip more enjoyable. It’s a simple trick experienced flight attendants are familiar with.
Boost Your Immune System
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Despite your best efforts, traveling exposes you to germs, which means having a strong immune system is all the more important. Before takeoff, load up on vitamin C—and D-rich foods, like citrus fruits and mushrooms, to boost your defenses. Managing stress and staying hydrated is also key.
Avoid Salty Foods
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You should think twice about consuming salty snacks before or during your flight. Foods that contain excess sodium can lead to dehydration and bloating, which will subsequently make that cramped seat feel even less comfortable. Instead, try better alternatives like fresh fruits or unsalted nuts.