Tips for easy air travel

AIR travel is no fun anymore now that there’s a security check every 10 paces and planes are so crowded that you end up with your knees against your nose. But if you have to get on a plane, here’s a list of suggestions to help you keep comfortable and ( relatively) hassle- free.

Dress for cold

Lounges and planes tend to over- cool so avoid wearing open- toed sandals and shortsleeved Tees. Prevent cold feet by wearing shoes with socks ( which you can take off if your feet swell on long journeys), avoid cold legs by ditching shorts for trousers or tights/ leggings, and pack a scarf in your bag to cover your shoulders just in case.

Watch for metal

These days, a belt buckle means beeping every time you walk through one of the security portals, so opt for a woven belt instead of one with a metal buckle. For the ladies, mind the wired bras and hair pins. Jewellery can also be a problem with some security people demanding you take off even plain wedding bands.

Keep it loose

As you now have to turn up several hours before a flight, a two- hour trip can easily turn into a four- hour trip plus car time to and from the airport. Then there is the possibility of a delay. As such, dress in clothes that are comfortable if you end up having to wear them all day long. Loose skirts, loose collars and natural fibres that keep your skin breathing are the best.

Plan to relax

There are cafes and shops in every airport but if that’s not your cup of tea, bring a book you enjoy and look for a lounge with comfortable chairs. Or plan for a foot massage ( widely available at many airports) so that you take some of the stress out of your travel time. Do set your phone alarm for the gate time in case you drop off.