how i actually get comfy on long flights
Every time I fly, I swear it’s a battle just to get settled in my seat. You know that awkward shuffle—trying to dig out your headphones or a snack while everyone behind you is impatiently waiting? I’ve had enough of that circus. Now, before I even get in line to board, I tie my hoodie around my waist—but with the hood hanging in front, not the back. It looks a little silly, but when I finally sit down, I can just slide it off and use it as a pillow or blanket without wrestling with my seatbelt.
I also have this little seat-pocket organizer that I keep packed with all my essentials: earplugs, gum, a couple of those disposable toothbrushes, my e-reader, sanitizer wipes, tissues, a pen, a tiny notepad, an eye mask, and my meds. It’s all dry stuff, so nothing leaks. I keep it in my under-seat bag and pull it out as soon as I get to my seat—no more digging around mid-flight or climbing over my neighbor to get to the overhead bin.
Here’s where it gets tricky: the liquids. I keep my lip balm, eye drops, and hand lotion in a snack-size ziplock inside my TSA bag. Once I’m through security, I move them into my organizer so I don’t have to mess with that clear bag again. And because I’m on the shorter side, I always bring a foldable footrest. It’s a lifesaver for my back and legs, but I do get some odd looks when I set it up. Oh, and I clip my water bottle to the seat pocket with a carabiner—no more rolling bottles or spills.
I’ve got everything within arm’s reach, but sometimes I wonder if I’m overdoing it. Is it just me, or does anyone else feel like prepping for a flight is starting to feel like packing for a camping trip? And why do airlines make it so hard to just get comfortable? I’d love to hear if anyone else has their own tricks—or if you’ve ever gotten strange looks for your in-flight setup. It can’t just be me, right?
#airplanetravel #travelhacks #over60 #Travel
