Tips for Traveling by Air when a Loved one is Scared of Flying
(415 Words)
It can be challenging to travel by air with someone who is afraid of flying. The person may understand that it is statistically safe, but it can still be jaunting. There are ways you can help your loved one make it through such an adventure.
Bring distractions
The best way to get through a flight with someone who is scared is to bring a lot of things to distract him or her. You can bring books or activities. Bring a travel game such as Scrabble of Yahtzee. Even a deck of cards will do. They may become so enmeshed in the game that they forget about the fact that they are on a flight if only for a little while.
Ask the person what distracts them the best. They may choose to bring a DVD player so that they can watch movies in flight. Of course they can pay for the movie that the airline is showing if applicable. If they are an avid reader, then tell them to bring a good book.
Even though you may want nothing more than to close your eyes for a little shut eye or read a book or watch a movie yourself, do not abandon your loved one in their time of need. Focus on them to help them through the flight.
Talk to them
Your loved one may feel too “antsy” to read a book or do what would normally distract him or her. In this case, you may want to just talk to them. Try to get them distracted in some sort of riveting conversation – one that has nothing to planes and the possible problems with them. Let them talk to you about something that they like.
Relaxation techniques
There are various relaxation techniques that can make a flight easier for a loved one who is frightened. Meditation can be very powerful. Encourage them to meditate before the flight. They will also do better if they are not tired and hungry on top of being scared. They can even bring meditation CDs with them on the plane to listen to as the flight is progressing.
Music is very relaxing for most people. They can bring some classical tunes to which to listen. This will also drown out the sound of the engines as an added bonus.
Your actions can make a big difference for your loved one afraid of flight. Try as many of the above techniques as you can to keep your loved one comfortable.