No matter how early your flight might be, resist the urge to wake up with a coffee.
Travelling by air can be quite an ordeal even under the best circumstances. The excitement of heading off on holiday is often tempered by the rigmarole of reaching the airport on time, navigating through security, and locating your seat aboard the aircraft.
The added strain of these tasks during the wee hours can amplify your fatigue, leading many travellers to seek solace in a pre-flight coffee at airport cafes or onboard the aircraft to stave off sleepiness.
Yet, a flight attendant has gone viral with a video advising against succumbing to the lure of caffeine before flying, particularly for those who are already anxious passengers, as it could exacerbate your worries.
So if you’re planning on marking National Coffee Day today (October 1) with a tasty cappuccino, you might want to think again if you also happen to be getting on a flight in the next couple of hours.
In a TikTok video, a flight attendant named Miva divulged her top recommendations for reducing flight anxiety, with avoiding coffee before and during the flight topping her list.
Miva pointed out caffeine can “intensify tension” and hinder sleep, potentially leaving you alert and fretful throughout the flight. As a stimulant, caffeine prompts the nervous system to produce adrenaline, which can heighten feelings of anxiety or nervousness.
She also highlighted the benefits of “investing” in one’s flight experience by paying more for additional comfort and space.
She advised: “You don’t have to book a first-class ticket [but] book more legroom and wear something comfortable. That makes you feel more cosy. Also, take a neck pillow or a sleep mask with you.”
The flight attendant underscored the importance of communication for those feeling nervous before flying.
Miva emphasised: “Let us know that you are afraid. We’ll check on you during the flight. Ask questions that trigger uncertainty in you, and we will answer them for you.”
Grateful travellers have expressed their appreciation for Miva’s guidance on social media. Feedback from users indicated the tips proved quite reassuring; several comments alluded to a newfound ease about upcoming air travel thanks to her advice.
One individual expressed gratitude: “Thank you so much for this! I’ve always wondered where the best place to sit on a plane was.”
Enthusiasm was echoed by another commenter, who wrote: “Excellent tips! I tend to sit at the front for some extra space, plus I sleep like a log on planes.”