Check behind you before reclining your seat – Airplane tip

by Gadling Staff on

Airline space seems tighter than ever. Before you recline your seat, make sure you warn the passenger behind you.

Broken computer screens, spilled drinks and bruised knees are just a few of the hazards of what is supposed to be a relaxing seat position. Done properly, the seat will recline without slamming your back against it.

If you decide to nap, don’t turn it into a bed. Rolling over in your seat or shifting positions abruptly while the seat is reclined will launch anything on the tray table behind you.

Be aware — and be courteous!

Save and label wine corks – Souvenir tip

by Gadling Staff on

A great take-home and space-saving souvenir for wine lovers are corks from bottles you’ve enjoyed while traveling.

What to write on the cork is up to you, but I usually include the date, where, and with whom I drank the wine.

At home, purchase or salvage an empty vase, bowl, or jar and simply start keeping the wine corks in there. The cork-filled vase also passes for decoration over the fireplace or on a coffee table.

Over time you can re-visit your trips by pulling out a cork and reminisce about that day.

Think overnight spa instead of red-eye stress – Airplane tip

by Gadling Staff on

Most people like to travel during the day, but I prefer to take the night flight and pamper myself. In my carry-on, I pack an eye mask, ear plugs, soothing music on my iPod, my fuzziest socks, and a journal.

As we start off, I order a glass of wine and write down my thoughts about the trip, and the top three things I have to do while I am there to feel like I experienced the place.

Then I sit back, listen to my music, wearing my eye mask and fuzzy socks. Before you know it, we have landed, and I am refreshed and ready to explore.

Documenting meals via beer coasters, cocktail napkins – Souvenir tip

by Gadling Staff on

Have you ever tried to recount an exquisite meal from a trip a couple months prior, only to discover that you really can’t remember that memorable meal?

Restaurants can help, as many of them provide their own unique “notebooks” to jot down those menu memories while they are happening: cocktail napkins and beer coasters.

Just make sure you carry an ink pen in your pocket or purse. When that fantastic bite of cheesecake or grilled lamb chops has your taste buds spinning, jot a few notes down on the napkin or coaster. It will make a perfect addition to your scrapbook.

Pro tip: note who was with you at that great meal, so you can reminisce with them later.

Drink lots of water! – Airplane tip

by Gadling Staff on

Most of us underestimate how much water we should consume on a daily basis, but we should not overlook it on the day of a flight!

Water works wonders when it comes to off-setting jet lag. It hydrates and promotes mental clarity. It also helps with fatigue, dizziness and lightheadedness, all common symptoms when we fly.

The best part is: water is free when you’re on board, and you can order as much as you need.

Pro tip: purchase a bottle after you’ve arrived at your gate, and you won’t have to ask for water on the flight.