Ways to Avoid Getting Sick During Long Flights

Photo by Suhyeon Choi

It’s natural for some people to experience sickness during long flights. Dizziness, nausea, sweating, and vomiting are only some of the sicknesses that one can have while staying in an airplane for long hours. There are lots of ways to avoid or cure airplane sickness. Here are some of them:

• When you buy air tickets, make sure to choose a seat over the wing part of the plane.

 This part of the plane has less movement compared to the others, so staying here will minimize the chances of you getting nauseous. It will also depend on other factors, such as the size of the plane. You will most likely feel dizzier in small planes since turbulence and movement are more noticeable.

• Choose a window seat.

You can reserve or ask for a window seat, which can help ease your dizziness during the flight. During the nighttime, try to take a nap since you can’t see anything from the window.

• Avoid eating heavy meals before boarding the plane.

Heavy food can make your stomach feel queasy during flight and can make you throw up. Just take a small meal before the flight, preferably one that does not contain spicy or greasy foods.

• Take anti-nausea medications before the flight.

This will help control the dizziness and will make you feel more rested during the trip. Most medications require you to take them an hour before boarding the plane.

• Stay hydrated during the flight.

Dehydration can cause dizziness and queasiness, so make sure to drink lots of water and juice while on board. Limit your alcohol and caffeine intake because this can make your skin dry.

• Put candy or crackers in your hand carry.

When you start feeling sick, you just eat these and you will feel better. Gums and ginger candy are recommended for those who have motion sickness.

• If you are suffering from diseases such as epilepsy or diabetes, always carry the name and contact number of your doctor in your bag.

This can save your life just in case you fall ill during a flight.

Yes to Safety Flights!

Photo by Daniel McCullough

Safety is the most important issue to press when flying. It is one of the major concerns of people who do flight bookings from time to time. However, the safety of a passenger does not just rely on the services of the airline company. The passenger, himself, has the obligation to do certain things that would assure his well-being while on board.

Here are some of the most typical things to remember:

1) Never leave things unattended

A bag left unattended can cause mayhem. It may be deemed suspicious as its unknown content could pose a threat to the people on the plane. Thus, it is important that people do not leave their things unguarded, or just anywhere. 

2) Do not bring deadly weapons or dangerous materials to the plane

Sometimes, security lapses can occur. Dangerous materials can be brought to the plane and it could cause pandemonium when found out. It is best not to bring these sorts of things on board as it would definitely frighten other passengers. 

3) Pay attention to the pre-flight orientation

Prevention is always better than cure; so it is best to listen to the rules and regulations implemented by the airline company which is to be discussed by the flight attendants prior to the flight. Safety precautions will also be explained; as well as the things to do in case of emergencies.

4) Store heavy baggage under the plane seat

Putting heavy things in the plane compartment can be risky. If the plane meets turbulence and the compartment is not locked, things could fall and eventually hurt the passengers. The best place to store these pieces of baggage is under the seat in front. 

5) Do not get drunk

Some airline companies allow their passengers to drink while on board but it is advisable not to get drunk to not make the other passengers uncomfortable. Sometimes, conflicts during flights are caused by too much intoxication. 

6) Buckle on!

Planes meet turbulences unexpectedly. No one can predict it, after all. That is why passengers must always remember to keep their seatbelts buckled. This will secure them on their seats and keep them safe in case the plane experience instability.

7) Listen to the flight attendants

Flight attendants are there not just to assist the pilots, but also to constantly remind the passengers of the different rules and regulations implemented by the company. For safety purposes, it is best to follow their orders. 

8) Always keep calm

Most of the time, panic is inflicted by paranoia. That is why, it is important to keep calm all the time. In case of emergencies, always listen to the instructions of the flight attendants to avoid pandemonium. 

Upon buying flight tickets, people are also given the responsibility to keep themselves safe from harm. That issue of safety does not just come from the company. It is a two-way process and passengers are expected to keep up with it, for their own satisfaction.

Simple Tips to Get Cheap Air Fares

Photo by Suu Amran 

Nowadays, everybody would want to stay on budget. As the world’s economy continues to fluctuate, it is a must that people learn how to keep their expenses low. However, it does not always follow that cutting on a budget means denying oneself of the quirks of life, especially traveling. Taking a break is as necessary as being thrifty; and with that, cheap airfares are rendered as delightful treats.

But how to land these wonderfully economic deals?

1. Consider when to buy the tickets.

Usually, sales on airfares are held to introduce the promo and/or to clear the product. That is why many people are advised to buy early or buy late in order to enjoy the probable sales from travel agencies or airline companies. However, one just has to make sure that buying early or late will not cause conflicts in his travel plans.

2. Take advantage of the off-peak seasons and hours.

One needs not always find a sale to land on budget airfare deals. Sometimes, it depends on the travel date and the hour of the flight. Usually, flights scheduled during off-peak seasons (non-holiday periods) are cheaper compared to other dates. Also, flying during late hours like midnight to dawn could be way more inexpensive than when flying while the sun is up.

3. Weigh the options.

There are a lot of travel agencies offering nice and attractive airfare deals and package tours. However, is the price alright? Are the destinations interesting? Are the benefits worth it? All these questions should be answered satisfactorily for a choice to be good. It is then not bad to canvass options among different travel agencies. Who knows? There could be something better than what you plan to settle for.

4. Subscribe for discount notices.

It is not always that one has the time to check every travel agency for their most recent discount offers. That is why it is advised to sign up for newsletters and announcements from the company. This way, notices about great deals will be delivered personally. Online ticketing sites usually have this ‘Subscribe’ button which people can click so announcements can be mailed to their e-mail regularly.

5. Use points to cut airfares.

Most airline companies or travel agencies offer pointing systems to their loyal customers. These points, often called flier miles, may be used to pay for the air tickets. It is often as good as cash. This means one can pay cheaper prices, or not pay anything at all. 

6. Check the benefits of the deals.

Some flight promotions have this buy (quantity)-get (quantity)-discounted or free method. It is a great thing to take advantage of. People can pay less for their airfares when booking is done in groups. Also, discounts are given when tickets are for senior citizens or children.

Finding cheap flight promotions online is surely not as difficult as how it seems to be. There is always an online ticketing website of a respected travel agency to surely provide all the abovementioned deals.

Affordable Adventure Travel Destinations in Asia

Photo by Simon Migaj 

Are you the type of traveller who looks for adrenaline-pumping activities during your holiday vacation but is short of budget to afford the trip to popular adventure destinations? Travelling to Asia can be the best alternative as cheap airfares are commonly available for flights bound for different countries in Asia.

Buying online air tickets from established travel companies can be cheaper especially during promotional periods rather than going to the direct website of airline companies. Thus most travellers who are planning a trip to Asia resort to online booking to get the cheapest air ticket. Although most of the famous adventure destinations can be found in expensive-to-travel continents, Asia offers numerous places which guarantee a vacation full of adrenaline rush. Here are some of the places that promise a smashing holiday:

Bali, Indonesia

Photo by Sebastian Pena Lambarri

Most travellers thought of Bali as a romantic and relaxing place to go because of its spectacular beaches. Aside from being an ideal getaway for sun and sand lovers, Bali offers adrenaline-pumping activities as well. The big waves of its beaches are a big hit for surfers from around the world. Visitors can also try ocean raft sightseeing or snorkelling for more adventures. For those who love the rapids, white water rafting in the Ayung and Unda Rivers can be the highlight of the trip.

Thailand

Photo by Frankie Spontelli 

If you are planning to go to Thailand for a holiday trip but still hesitant to do it, forget the hesitation because this country is filled to the core with adventures that will surely make your blood pumping. Inland activities such as jungle treks in the Northern Mountains, mountain climbing, canopy tours and elephant rides will surely make travellers sweat while having a good workout. Other activities worth trying are cave exploration, scuba diving, surfing and kayaking.

Ladakh India

Photo by Omendra Singh

Climbing the rugged mountains of the Northern Border of India can be physically demanding however it can also be a lifetime experience for those who crave for adventure. Different forms of Buddhist culture can be seen dotting the region as traveller trek along the steep mountainside of Ladakh. White water rafting is also a popular sport in this part of India. The ultimate test of courage and physical fitness will be conquering the River Azkar known for its wild raging rapids and cold waters.

Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Photo by Ling Tang 

Climbing the tallest peak in Malaysia which is the Kota Kinabalu is one of the reasons why travellers search for cheap air tickets to Sabah. This activity is commonly popular for those who seek adventure during their trip. Aside from climbing the 13,400-foot peak of Kota Kinabalu adventure lovers can also enjoy camping out in the jungle and have a chance to see untamed wild animals wandering free.

Vietnam

Photo by Jonathan Ouimet 

The country’s national park Cuc Phoung is famous to tourists because of its more than 300 species of tropical birds and a whopping 43 million varieties of flora and fauna. Trekking through the forests of Vietnam can bring each traveller closest to the wildlife and nature at its best.

Bhutan

Photo by Adli Wahid 

Bhutan is one of those destinations waiting to be discovered by adventure lovers. An archaeological paradise, Bhutan is well-known for its magnificent monasteries and fortresses. Travellers can trek through the trails that wind past them or bike through the countryside to explore the area. Other ways of touring this place is through kayaking or rafting which is more of a challenge.

Travellers who crave an adrenaline rush need not spend a lot to have a dose of thrilling activities. With several cheap airfares available for Asian countries, adventure comes at an affordable price.

Singapore Citizen’s Travel Visa Guide

Photo by yousef alfuhig

Singaporeans are the most well-traveled people in the Asia Pacific region according to the Channel News Asia based on a survey conducted by MasterCard during the month of August 2011. The survey revealed that 85% of Singaporeans made at least one international leisure trip within the 12 month period the survey was conducted.

Having a passion for traveling, this guide for the latest visa requirement for popular travel destinations in Asia will be useful for Singapore citizens who are planning to secure an air ticket booking to spend a holiday abroad. This guide covers Singapore citizens, holders of passports issued in Singapore, and those who were born in Singapore and wish to attain a Tourist Visa, not including Business and Diplomatic Visas.

Applying for a Tourist Visa can be sorted out into three categories – no advanced planning, three-day preparation, and two-week preparation.

Asian countries like Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Maldives, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, India, and Indonesia fall into the “no advanced planning” category. It means that a tourist visa will be granted automatically upon arrival at the airport thus no pre-arrangements or payments are necessary.

The number of days a tourist was allowed to stay or the date a tourist must leave the country will be stamped on the passport by the immigration officer. That stamp will serve as a “visa” which allows the tourist to enter the country multiple times within a specific number of days, starting from the date of arrival. It is also known as a multiple-entry visa.

For countries like India and Indonesia, a visa on arrival comes with a fee. Visitors will be asked to approach the ‘visa-on-arrival counter’ to submit a visa application. A passport-sized photo will be required along with the stamping fee.

While other countries grant visas upon arrival, some countries in Asia such as Australia require visitors to submit a visa application in advance, before arrival at the entry point. The processing period takes at least three working days. Applying for a visa can be done online without handing over the original passport then the letter of approval will be sent through e-mail. A visa will be valid only for a particular period of time thus the applicant will be asked to enter the country within a specific number of days. Some nations will grant the visa without payment however some will ask visitors to pay for a stamping fee at the visa-on-arrival counter.

On the other hand, tourist visa applications for some countries such as Myanmar and Russia take around two weeks processing period. In this case, an applicant must approach the embassy of the country he/she wishes to visit to apply for a visa. Another option will be through a travel agent as they have “runners” who can process the application in the embassy without the presence of the applicant. Usually, the validity of the visa begins once it has been issued, not on the day the visitor arrived in the country.

Tourist Attractions in Bali, Indonesia: Flying off to Paradise

Photo by Harry Kessell 

One thing which not everybody knows is that paradise can actually be spelled as B-A-L-I. For indeed, the beautiful island of Bali Indonesia is basically a preview of all the good things the heavens can offer.

Deemed a major island in Indonesia, Bali is presently hailed as one of the best tourist spots in the country. The primary attraction is its vast ocean of blue which complements the purity of the white sand on its shores. It is further emphasized by the humidity of the tropic weather. Tourists who love hitting the water will definitely find great pleasure at the mere sight of it.

Besakih Temple

Photo by Andrey Bond

However, the island does not content one’s satisfaction with its beaches alone. It also features the thousand year-old Besakih Temple. In it, tourists who are in search of peace of mind and solitude may find the calmness they have been longing for.

Safari and Marine Park

Photo by Megan Soule

For those who love the wildlife, taking a trip to Bali Safari and Marine Park is a strong advice. Doing so will not just improve one’s knowledge about life in the jungle and underwater. Through it, tourists may also understand how good it feels to be part of the protectors of the wild and the sea.

Bali Botanical Garden

Photo by Bali Botanic Garden

It is this experience which will literally awe the tourists of the different wonders of nature manifested on various species of trees and flora; with some exclusively found in Bali.

The island of Bali definitely brings forth surprises to any visiting vacationer. With its intrinsic beauty and gloriousness, it is undoubtedly a paradise in its own right. And more than anything else in the world, it is an air ticket to Indonesia which could bring one to a paradise called Bali.

Getting Out of Trouble Before Boarding a Flight

Photo by Jerry Zhang 

Even after booking that cheap flight from a budget airline, it is not impossible for travelers not to experience some last-minute conflicts in traveling; and most often, these simple problems can result in bigger difficulties if not patched up early. That is why it is important for people traveling to always double-check things.

However, if the conflict cannot really be helped, below are some tips to easily fix everything in place:

1. WHERE ARE THE TICKETS?

Tickets, like passports, are the most important thing to get a person to board a plane. But in inevitable instances that it is forgotten or lost, people should calm down. Nowadays, electronic tickets are replacing traditional ones so it is easier to get another copy of it from the computer. Another option is to remember the flight number because airline companies always have a master list of reservations and booked flights. With a few proofs of identity, it is possible to obtain another ticket from them in an instant. However, it has to be understood that certain amounts may be paid by the passenger as compensation for the lost ticket.

2. WHERE IS THE PASSPORT?

A passport is definitely important and since its processing takes time, it is best to keep spare photocopies of the passport’s information page, as well as the page where the visa is stamped. This is just a precaution in case it gets lost. Upon discovering that it is gone, the passenger should contact the local embassy or the passport-issuing department to report its loss. In case of being just forgotten, the passenger should at least ask a colleague to get it.

3. LATE FOR THE DEPARTURE TIME?

There are instances when people just cannot help but be late. There is a variety of possible reasons for this. In case this happens, the passenger should keep calm. Usually, departure schedules are earlier than the actual flight so it will most likely be okay. However, the passenger should hurry to the airport.

The errors could be due to different instances. It could be due to the times or to personal errors. However, a passenger should not let any of these possibilities ruin the flight. So cautiousness and preparation are necessary. To make things easier, it is best to get air tickets from online air ticket booking websites.

Spend Less and Travel More With These Cost-Saving Tips

Photo by Diane Pascual 

Value for money is one of the main concerns when planning a holiday trip. It’s just common to look for the cheapest airfare and take advantage of promotional rates offered during the off-peak season. With the rising cost of living and economic instability all over the world, everyone looks for every possible way to lower the costs while maximizing the travel experience.

Check out the following tips to save costs while having your well-deserved break:

Traveling light can be a wise decision. Choose clothes that are light and can be worn in different ways so that you won’t end up spending the money you have saved from getting air tickets promo.

Going for a holiday with friends does not only guarantee that your trip will be full of fun and excitement, it can also be a cost-saving option as most travel packages become cheaper when you travel in a group. Accommodation will definitely be cheaper if you’ll share the room with your friends.

Plan your trip ahead and avoid the peak-season period during festivals, conventions, or major sports events. You can hardly find affordable accommodation and cheap air tickets during these periods.

After you have booked the available cheapest airfare, do your research and equip yourself with useful information about the place you are going to visit. Take note of the areas where you can buy the cheapest souvenir items or affordable places to try authentic cuisine and sample local delicacies.

Read about places you are planning to visit once you have settled your air ticket. Know the available modes of transportation you can use to reach the different tourist destinations. Taking trains and buses save costs however be sure to have the correct information or better yet secure a map to avoid wasting your time if you got lost. You may also consider walking instead to explore the area and discover new things along your way.

As you list down the places you are planning to cover for the day, do not forget to put snacks into your bag with your water bottle. This will save you the hassle of searching for a place to buy food or drink when you get hungry and at the same time save you money.

It is also important to know the exchange rate of your money to the currency of your destination. It will help you to determine how much you need to bring along for your trip. If you are planning to use credit cards, keep track of your expenses so that you won’t end up spending beyond what you have allotted for the trip.

Keep track of your travel documents. Always put them in a secure and safe place. Getting a replacement while you are abroad will surely cost you a huge sum of money.

You can start saving by choosing the best available promo for air tickets. Remember that traveling abroad is one of the best ways to reward yourself for working hard all year round. Nevertheless, you don’t need to consume all your savings for the entire year if you only make a conscious effort to cut down costs in every possible way.

Everyone Can Go With The Cheapest Air Fare!

Photo by Mitsuo Komoriya 

Most of the kids if not everyone look forward to spending fun-filled activities during school vacation. It is the perfect time for them to do the things they cannot do during school term. Some parents take advantage of this period to spend quality time with their children by going on a family vacation. 

Nowadays, family trips are more affordable because of cheap airfares and accommodations that are conveniently available online. Numerous travel companies even have attractive deals for family packages designed to cater for the needs of the family. 

Although going for a holiday trip with the entire family will mean spending quite a big sum of money, opting for the cheapest air ticket will surely lessen the cost. Here are more cost-saving tips when planning for a family getaway:

1. Use the Web to search for the best deals for vacation packages, cheapest airfares and discounted hotel rates. Online travel deals are usually cheaper, especially during promotional periods and they are easily accessible through the internet.

2. Choose off-the-beaten-path destinations. Avoid the crowd and visit those places which are less popular to tourists. It will give plenty of time for the family to explore and discover new things about the place, its people and their culture while laughing and having a good time together. 

3. Settle for more affordable accommodation. If going to Disneyland will mean a perfect holiday for kids, go for hotels which are not located within the premise of the theme park. Comfortable and convenient accommodations are cheaper outside the premise of the theme park. Transportation won’t be a problem either as most hotels provide shuttle-free buses for top tourist attractions within the area.

4. Travelling during off-peak season is one way to lessen the cost. During this period most airline companies offer cheap air tickets to attract more travelers. Heavily discounted hotel rates and travel packages are also commonly found during this period. 

5. Have a flexible date when planning a holiday trip. You can save a considerable amount of money if you will plan the trip according to the availability of cheap air tickets and other promotional deals rather than determining the dates and location and then finding affordable deals during that specific time frame. It is quite hard especially if the only available time for the family is during the school vacation however doing it several months before the school term ends will give you a higher chance of landing on affordable travel deals.

For sure there are more ways to save when going for a family vacation. With the prices of basic necessities in life getting more and more expensive as the years passed by, it is just wise to find every possible way to save especially when it comes to things which are not considered as “basic necessities” such as travelling. 

With the hustle and bustle of modern society and the increasing needs of children to fulfil, parents often have a hard time spending quality time with their children. Travelling provides them with this much-needed break from work to strengthen the bonds with their children while imparting them important lessons in life during conversations as they take a relaxing time on the beach or explore historical sites. This is one of the good things brought about by advancement in technology, easily accessible information for cheap airfares and accommodation to provide more options for each family to plan a holiday trip that will strengthen the value of the basic unit of society.

Making a Vacation Trip Truly Worthwhile

Photo by Toa Heftiba 

Travel to the world’s most beautiful places is one of the best rewards you could ever give yourself. Backpacking, as how it is usually termed, is probably one of the most ideal ways to regain the vigor towards work and daily living. So to make the most out of a vacation trip, it is not enough to just avail the cheapest air ticket. There are lots of things to do to make backpacking truly memorable.

First and foremost, it is really advisable to settle for airline companies offering discount airfare. After all, there is a huge chance that you will be spending a fortune on your destination; so it is rather good to avail the cheapest offers.

Once you have already settled for the cheapest air ticket deals, it would be best to also avail of the cheapest hotel rate there is. But comfort should not be compromised. So it would be probably best to check on online air ticket booking sites which are tied up with air ticket booking companies for package deals.

After the bookings, the trip preparation begins. Other than the finances, you have to mentally get ready for the excitement of your trip. Spend a few days researching the best locations in the country you are visiting. This way, you will have your itinerary beforehand and you would no longer waste your precious time deciding where to go, on the spot.

It is also recommended that you do check on some reviews detailing the culture of the locals you will probably be mingling with. After all, you will be a foreigner to their country and it is given that you will be the one to adapt to their ways of living. Learning their language is also a plus point. You do not have to worry, anyway, because people are naturally friendly, and understanding the way they are will surely do you good as how a discount airfare did.

Lastly, to make your getaway truly memorable, it is best to bring a friend to share the happiness with you. After all, the cheapest airfare is available. Anybody would not say no to that.

What an air ticket to Malaysia is worth?

  

Photo by Azlan Baharudin 

The beauty of Malaysia is unquestionable. Being one of the most visited countries in Asia, it gives home to a lot of attractions, pristine nature reserves, and vibrant cultures that are unfathomably unique and beautiful. These are reasons why people keep on availing of those air tickets to Malaysia.

But ‘attractions’, ‘pristine nature reserves’, and ‘vibrant cultures’ are too general to truly determine what an air ticket to Malaysia is worth. So below are some of the most popular tourist destinations in the country which define the significance of Malaysia-bound air tickets.

1. Kuala Lumpur. The capital city of Malaysia, it is the center of the country’s economy. It gives shelter to different aspects of a dynamic community; like business & government offices, shopping malls, high-rise residential areas, and a lot more which serve as proof of being upscale.

2. Langkawi. The beauty of Malaysian nature is blatant in Langkawi. Aside from the famous beaches, it also boasts of different mountains, forests, lakes, rice fields, and rivers that are definitely breathtaking; which definitely makes a tour package to Langkawi worthwhile.

3. Penang. Another Malaysian city, Penang is the place to be if you want to explore the colorful heritage of the country. The whole place is like a quintessence of the hybrid of the different cultures which molded present Malaysia.

4. Kota Kinabalu. Your tours to Malaysia will never be put to complete use without visiting Kota Kinabalu. The capital of Sabah, tropical luxury is best revealed in this place. With its areas dominated by lavish beach resorts which define opulence and total comfort, Kota Kinabalu is a nice destination to discover just what your air tickets are worth.

5. Batu Ferringhi. One thing not all people would believe is that an air ticket to Malaysia is a key to paradise, and that paradise is Batu Ferringhi. An island in Malaysia, it gives home to the most pristine and spectacular beaches in the area. From there, you can enjoy white sand beaches and azure ocean water that are at par with the world’s bests.

The abovementioned are just some of the places to help you determine the worth of your air ticket to Malaysia. So explore paradise. Online air ticket booking sites will help you with settling your air tickets.

What We All Have to Learn About Carry-On Luggage

Photo by Gabrielle Henderson 

In traveling on planes, it is essential to know and understand the different rules and restrictions that are implemented towards carry-on luggage. It is as important as getting informed about the terms and conditions of air ticket booking.

So for first-timers, here are a few reminders about packing your carry-on luggage. Learning these things by heart will surely do you all good and will certainly save you from being questioned by airport officials:

1. There is a definite size for carry-on luggage prescribed by the airlines. Measured by inches, some travelers fail to take into consideration the handle or external pockets of the bags they carry. It has to be understood that these things could also affect the size of the bag and could also be checked.

2. Personal gadgets like cellphones, cameras, music players, laptops and other small items can be put on the carry-on luggage. Purses and reading materials can also be put there.

3. The carry-on luggage should not be bulky. Plane rides are supposed to be comfortable. If you will have a carry-on luggage that is heavy and bulky, it could be an annoyance to you. Much more, it could even be a disturbance to your co-passengers.

4. Liquids and gels inside the carry-on luggage should be declared. Otherwise, it will be confiscated before boarding the plane. However, pledging it does not assure that it would get through. Most airlines only allow 3 ounces of liquid or gel in one carry-on luggage, and this is strictly observed. To avoid this, you must use hygiene items and cosmetics in solid form.

5. Medicines should be added to your carry-on luggage. If it is in liquid or gel form, it should be declared to airport officials for visual inspections. Restrictions on the amount to be brought do not apply in this case though. 

6. Sharp objects like knives should be included in the checked luggage. Otherwise, it shall be confiscated. The same condition applies to sports items.

7. There is no way that flammable items and dangerous chemicals can be brought to boarding.

8. It is important to put these basic essentials on your carry-on luggage, on a part where it is safe and can be easily reached. These tickets, along with passports, are the most important things on the flight so better keep them close to you.

9. It should be understood before settling for an air ticket booking that international flights are definitely stricter when it comes to carry-on luggage. Domestic flights, most of the time, do not have a limit on the size of the hand-carry, but the other conditions apply.

10. Food is not a restricted item so if you think that you cannot eat what will be served to you during the flight, it is ideal to bring your own meal. However, stinky and messy delicacies should be avoided.

Travelling is not just about air ticket booking. There are other things to consider as well. So learn the things mentioned above by heart for a very safe and unforgettable flight!

Ways to Avoid Getting Sick During Long Flights

Photo by William Bayreuther

It’s natural for some people to experience sickness during long flights. Dizziness, nausea, sweating, and vomiting are only some of the sicknesses that one can have while staying in an airplane for long hours. There are lots of ways to avoid or cure airplane sickness. Here are some of them:

• When you buy air tickets, make sure to choose a seat over the wing part of the plane. This part of the plane has less movement compared to the others, so staying here will minimize the chances of you getting nauseous. It will also depend on other factors, such as the size of the plane. You will most likely feel dizzier in small planes since turbulence and movement are more noticeable.

• Choose a window seat. When you buy air tickets, make sure to select a window seat, which can help ease your dizziness during the flight. During the nighttime, try to take a nap since you can’t see anything from the window.

• Avoid eating heavy meals before boarding the plane. Heavy food can make your stomach feel queasy during flight and can make you throw up. Just take a small meal before the flight, preferably one that does not contain spicy or greasy foods.

• Take anti-nausea medications before the flight. This will help control the dizziness and will make you feel more rested during the trip. Most medications require you to take them an hour before boarding the plane.

• Stay hydrated during the flight. Dehydration can cause dizziness and queasiness, so make sure to drink lots of water and juice while on board. Limit your alcohol and caffeine intake because this can make your skin dry.

• Put candy or crackers in your hand carry. When you start feeling sick, you just eat these and you will feel better. Gums and ginger candy are recommended for those who have motion sickness.

• If you are suffering from diseases such as epilepsy or diabetes, always carry the name and contact number of your doctor in your bag. This can save your life just in case you fall ill during a flight.

Conquer Your Fear of Flights

Photo by Erik Odiin 

If you have a fear of flying, don’t get too self-conscious about it. You are not alone. Lots of people, regardless of age, sex, and social status, get sweaty palms and get all jittery when the plane is skidding down the runway. It doesn’t matter how many times the pilot will tell you how safe the plane is; you just keep getting visions of the plane crashing in the middle of the open sea. Fear of flying is definitely a hassle for those who want or have to travel, but there are various ways to overcome this phobia. 

First, you have to remember that plane travel is actually safer than land travel. When you compare the number of automobile accidents to the number of plane crashes that happen every year, you will notice that the figures are in favor of plane travel. Keep in mind that there are hundreds of people working to make sure that your plane is in good shape, so don’t be afraid to buy those air tickets.

Second, you have a solid ally with the internet. Not only can you book online plane tickets, but you can also do research and read up on plane safety. You will find out how a plane works, from the mechanics and technical parts to the safety measures practiced by the pilot and flight crew when aboard the plane.  You will find out how important it is to follow the rules set by the pilot and flight attendants for passengers. You will know how vital the seat belt is to your safety and how to deal with turbulence during flight. 

If you have a fear of flying, you must choose your seat with care. When booking for air tickets, make sure to get seats near the aisle. Some people get freaked out when they sit by the window and see how high they really are from the ground. When you are seated near the aisle, you can pretend that you are just inside a big bus with lots of passengers.  Bring stuff that can distract you from your fear of flying; your laptop, iPad, Playstation, or books and magazines can keep you occupied during the flight.

Tips on Packing Your Carry-On Bag

Photo by Sigmund

Packing the carry-on bag is perhaps one of the most difficult tasks a traveler faces. There is so much stuff to carry but so little room to put them in. But it’s important to master the art of packing the carry-on bag. It’s big enough only for your essentials, such as air tickets and select clothing and toiletries. You have to choose which items are important enough to bring to your trip, which means you can do away with the other bags that can cause you hassle at the airport. Here are some tips on how to do it:

• Contact your airline and find out their restrictions regarding carry-on bags

Airlines have different restrictions when it comes to carry-on bags. After booking your air tickets, ask them the maximum size of carry-on bags they allow for passengers. It is usually different for international and domestic flights. This way, you will have a general idea of what can fit inside your bag and how much you will be able to carry.

• Roll your clothes

Instead of folding your clothes, try rolling them instead. It takes less space so you can have more room for other stuff. Choose wrinkle-free clothes so you don’t have to worry about wrinkles. Or you can just make use of the iron in your hotel room for your clothing. If you like putting them in plastic bags, make sure to squeeze the air out of the bag before you stuff them into the bag.

• Buy travel-size versions of everything you need to pack

This applies to toiletries and gadgets such as blow dryers and curling irons. Or you can simply use the ones in your hotel room. Buy small bottles of shampoos and body washes. For medications, you can bring them in the smallest bottles available. Take as few cosmetics as possible.  

• Wear your bulkier clothing and shoes then pack the lighter ones

Wear your boots then pack the slippers and sandals. This goes for the jacket and coat as well, depending on the weather. Pack footwear that you can use for different purposes. This will allow you to pack as fewer shoes as possible.

Air Travel with Babies

Photo by Octav Cado 

Most people avoid taking their babies during vacation, especially if it involves putting the infant on an airplane. But some parents cannot avoid this and will have to bear the thought of strapping their little one to an airplane seat. The good news is that it is generally safe to let infants travel as long as they are four to six weeks old.

But you can already buy air tickets for babies two or three weeks old if you have no choice but to take your baby with you on your trip. Airlines have strict guidelines regarding infants in airplanes. Here are some tips to help you plan your baby’s trip:

• Book your air tickets in advance

This is important because you have to choose the best seat for your baby. Avoid seats at the rear end of the airplane, which is closer to the engines. Your baby might be disturbed by the noise. Take seats at the front of the plane if possible, you will appreciate the extra legroom.

• Make sure that the airplane has adequate facilities for infants

Call your travel agent when you book your air tickets or contact them online and let them know you are traveling with an infant. This way, you’ll know what facilities and services they have for passengers traveling with babies. They can note on your record that you will need extra help for your little one.

• Make sure you have all the baby stuff in your hand carry

Stock up on diapers, milk bottles, baby food, baby wipes, and other baby stuff to make your trip as comfortable and hassle-free as possible. If you need help with wiping the mess that your baby made, you can always ask assistance from the flight attendant.

• Let your baby wear comfortable clothes

Babies get irritated easily with uncomfortable clothing, and the last thing you want to happen is your infant screaming loudly inside the plane for all passengers to hear. Dress him up in light clothes that are easy on the skin. Always have a blanket ready in case he gets too cold.