It doesn’t matter how many flights I get on, my anxiety just doesn’t seem to go away!

Over the years I have tried and tested lots of things to try and reduce my fear of flying, and combat it before it even takes over.

These are my current go-to’s for flying and I hope it helps anyone else who experiences anxiety when flying or has a fear that stops them getting on a plane.

Book Bigger Planes & Up Front

For some reason, my anxiety is NEVER as bad on an international flight. Why? Because it’s a bigger plane!

Bigger planes don’t feel turbulence as much. And up front feels it a lot less than the tail. The back of the plane always feels it a lot more.

I always try to book the A330 to Sydney, rather than the B737 because it’s a much bigger plane. Plus a bigger plane means more Business seats and a better chance of a business upgrade.

Don’t Drink Coffee

It’s hard as when you are up at 3 am for early international flights but I never drink coffee when I’m flying.

Coffee makes my anxiety much worse and if I have had caffeine that day I am guaranteed to have a much more anxious flight.

The best thing you can actually do is drink water because planes dehydrate you as it is.

GABA

You can thank my mama for this little beauty!

I know you’re likely scratching your head about this one so let me give you the technical speak…

“Gamma-Aminobutyric acid” is an amino acid produced naturally in the brain. GABA functions as a neurotransmitter, facilitating communication among brain cells.

Its big role in the body is to reduce the activity of neurons in the brain and central nervous system, which in turn has a broad range of effects on the body and mind, including increased relaxation, reduced stress, a more calm, balanced mood, alleviation of pain, and a boost to sleep.

Basically, it calms you right down and reduces the “freak out” feelings. I take it before getting on every flight and notice a huge difference if I don’t take it.

You can find it on iHerb, but there are plenty of manufacturers who make it.

Essential Oil Blends

I have an amazing oil blend from Dani Loxton called “Calm Ya Farm” and it is my absolute flying essential. I have used it for a few years now and always have it ready in my handbag to roll on my wrists and back of the neck.

I actually know jack shit about oils, but I do know they work. And Dani’s blend especially is great for anxious flyers.

You can buy it here, all ready to go in a little roller.

Board Late

One of my tricks is to leave boarding until the last minute.

I never line up and usually, we are in the lounge and don’t even make it to the gate till the line is almost gone.

Reducing the time you are sitting and dwelling before you even take off makes it much better I find.

It’s also much better when you have kids!

Distract Yourself

I always have multiple outlets to distract me.

Downloaded podcasts, books, magazines, Netflix – ANYTHING!

I just keep it all handy and ready to pull out and immerse myself into before takeoff.

Don’t Wear Tight Pants

Well, I think I proved this one to you all on my most recent flight.

I usually always wear leggings or tracksuit pants on planes. There is nothing worse than flying and being uncomfortable.

But with my anxiety, comes stomach pains and gas (sorry TMI) and add in tight jeans or pants and you’ve got yourself a recipe for disaster.

This isn’t just a tip for anxious flyers, it sucks no matter what! Wear comfy clothes.

Look At The Air Hosts

One thing I always do in times of bumpy take-off, turbulence or turning planes is to find the air host and check the look on their face.

If they are just carrying on like usual then I find it comforting knowing they are not bothered.

Not always foolproof, as there have been a few times I’ve seen them barreling down the aisle during turbulence and I freak the eff out ha