Long haul flights can be really challenging, especially if you’re a smoker. In fact, the thought of being up in the air and in situations where you’re not able to reach for a cigarette for many hours might fill you with dread and anxiety, some smokers even find that it puts them off travelling altogether.
However, it’s important not to let your addiction rule your life, and if you go about things in the right way you can stay as comfortable as possible and still see the places in the world that you dream about. Read on to find out more about managing a long haul flight as a smoker.
Quit or Cut Down Ahead of Time
The best way to tackle the challenge of a smoke free flight is to quit in advance. If you’re able to completely break the addiction then you’ll remove all anxiety surrounding this when it comes to flying. However, this of course is incredibly challenging, and might not be something you feel you can, or want to do. If that’s the case, aim to cut right down instead. If you reduce the amount of nicotine your body needs, you’ll have less intense cravings and will likely find that the flight passes a whole lot more smoothly for you.
Look into Smokeless Tobacco Alternatives
If you simply can’t imagine a long flight without nicotine, smokeless alternatives like nicotine pouches can be a game changer. These deliver nicotine but without the harmful smoke, making them a discreet and practical solution for in flight cravings. Check the regulations of your airline beforehand as policies can vary, but for the most part they’re unrestricted and can make your journey more comfortable a deliver your nicotine hit without smoking. Lots of sites offer all kinds of variations, like Nordic Spirit nicotine pouches and different types of flavours.
Utilize Gum and Patches
Nicotine gum and patches are tried-and-true methods to manage cravings since they provide a controlled release of nicotine and help you curb the urge to smoke. Keep a stash of nicotine gum in your carry on, and consider applying a patch before the flight for a steady supply of nicotine throughout the journey of a long haul flight.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water during a flight is not only good for your overall well-being but can also help manage nicotine cravings. Hydration can alleviate dry mouth, a common side effect of nicotine use, and keep you occupied throughout the flight. Carry a reusable water bottle and sip on water regularly to stay refreshed.
Distract Yourself
Keeping your mind occupied is a powerful tool for managing cravings. Load up your tablet or ereader with books, movies, or games to keep yourself entertained. Consider bringing along a puzzle book, listening to music, or watching in-flight entertainment to distract your mind from nicotine cravings. The more engaged you are, the less you’ll focus on the desire to smoke.
Practice Deep Breathing and Relaxation Techniques
Stress and anxiety can intensify nicotine cravings. Combat these triggers with deep breathing exercises and relaxation techniques. Practice slow, deep breaths to calm your nerves. Consider downloading a meditation app or creating a playlist of calming music to help you relax during the flight. The more relaxed you are, the easier it becomes to resist the urge to smoke on a long haul flight.
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