by Suz Neave

Created on: February 15, 2010   Last Updated: February 18, 2010

Airports always have an energetic feel about them, a colourful array of people mixed into one big pot. Everyone has a story to tell, whether they are going to or coming from somewhere and a myriad of emotions fill the scene. But with this intriguing location comes a certain level of stress and disorder: checking into your flight, often hosted by air hostesses with fixed beaming smiles who run through a list a pre-programmed lines; getting through the security checks, often manned by unsmiling officials who are sick of explaining for the umpteenth time that you can’t take your tweezers on board, or your half drunk bottle of water as they are considered high risk items; having reached the other side of the security check you have to fumble with putting your shoes and belt back on, whilst juggling with your luggage, with your passport and boarding card precariously held between your lips. This hectic ordeal is finally over when you slump down in the selected seat, after having squeezed your, what at the time didn’t seem a particularly big bag into a what now seems to be an exceedingly small space above you. The sense of chaos is only slightly comparable to attempting shopping on Christmas Eve. But with a bit of sensible planning flying does not need to be a stressful occasion.

Firstly, sensible packing of your hand luggage. Always pack into a bag that you know will fit comfortably into the overhead lockers. Think about what you are going to need when checking in, whilst waiting in the departure lounge, and when you are on the plane. Make sure these items are easily accessible in your hand luggage. If you are carrying a wash bag make sure that contents comply with the aviation regulations. Have it ready in a plastic bag, and at the top of your bag, so that it is easy to pull out when it comes to going through the security check. Other items that you can include in your hand luggage include a book or magazine to read, a shawl or jacket (planes always seem so cold!), headache tablets, a few boiled sweets (in case you have problems with “popping” your ears after takeoff) and a neck cushion. Even on a short haul flight of a couple of hours, it’s nice to rest with your neck in a comfortable position. I always tie my neck cushion to the outside of my hand luggage so that it doesn’t take up any room. And if you have space a spare, a set of spare clothes, just in case your checked in luggage hasn’t taken the same journey as you,

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