Enhance Your Air Travel Experience: Tips for Comfort

Your body will thank you.

There are all sorts of things you probably should pack in your carry-on (another pair of underwear, toothbrush and toothpaste), but there’s one thing you’ll never want to forget: a tennis ball.

Why a Tennis Ball?

Stick with me, here. It’s not so you can spend your flight bouncing your tennis ball against the airplane cabin wall (really, don’t do that). Instead, use it to help with some mid-flight stretching.

Combatting the Effects of Sitting

We all know that sitting for an extended amount of time wreaks havoc on your health, so it’s no surprise that long-haul flights are not high on the list of healthy activities. Getting up, walking around, and stretching will help keep you comfortable, making the battle against jet lag a little easier on your muscles.

Expert Tips for Stretching

Ali Gjoz, a surgeon from the London Orthopaedic Clinic, shared a few tips with the Daily Star. “Taking a tennis ball or a massager on the plane will help increase circulation,” he says. Roll it over your shoulders, lower back, legs, and the bottoms of your feet to help get your blood flowing again.

If you just can’t fit that tennis ball in your bag (no shame—cramming a week’s worth of outfits into a carry-on is sometimes necessary), Gjoz suggests massaging your legs, starting with the ankles and moving up, to help get the blood moving back toward your heart.

Be Confident in Your Actions

And if you’re worried about what your fellow fliers will say, don’t be. Your in-flight beauty routine may still grab more stares than stretching and massaging with a tennis ball.

Conclusion

In conclusion, packing a tennis ball in your carry-on can significantly enhance your travel experience. By incorporating simple stretches and massage techniques, you can maintain circulation and reduce discomfort during long flights. Therefore, remember these tips for a healthier and more pleasant journey.