LIFE

Tough Stuff

Freaked about flying for the first time? Here's how to deal


My family is going on a vacation to Orlando for spring break. It¹s my first time flying and I¹m really scared. What should I pack in my carry-on? What sort of things should I pack in my suitcase? How do I "pack light"? How do I stop my ears from popping?

That sounds like so much fun! Flying can seem scary, but statistics show that it is actually safer than driving, so leave the fear behind and enjoy the ride. Before your trip, make a list of everything you want to bring so you don’t forget anything. Start by asking yourself these questions:
 
What will the temperature be while I’m there? Depending on the weather, bring jeans and/or shorts and long or short sleeve shirts.
Will it rain? If so, bring your raincoat.
Am I going swimming? Bring as many bathing suits as you think you’ll use. Remember: You can always wash ‘em in the sink, but they’ll take a night to dry all the way.
 
Will I be walking a lot? If so, bring some supportive walking shoes along with some flip-flops for the beach and pool, and a dressier pair if you’re going somewhere nice for dinner.
 
What will I be doing? Depending on the activities your family has planned, you might want to bring goggles, sunglasses, beach reads or other fun items. Whatever you do, don’t forget the essentials: Sunscreen, undies, PJs, toiletries, period supplies if you’re due to start while on vacay, socks, a camera and chargers for your gadgets.
 
Once you’ve got your big suitcase packed, you can turn your attention to your carry on. Ask your parents how long you’ll be traveling for—short flight, long layovers, a couple of connecting flights—to see how much stuff you should bring to keep yourself entertained. Remember: Just ‘cause your bag can hold bunches doesn’t mean you should bring all of your favorite things. You’ll be lugging everything around all day long.
 
Some of our favorite things are lip balm, an MP3 player, fun books, a jacket or sweatshirt in case the plane is cold, a packet of gum to help ease the pressure in your ears and your favorite mag (GL of course!).
 
 

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by Maddie Brown | 2/1/2016
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