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Fear of flying

Some backpackers have gone as far as having hypnotherapy to cure their flying phobia. Others simply get themselves drugged up with whatever the doctor has prescribed. We would certainly not recommend getting drunk as you can be refused entry to the plane and you are a safety hazard.

Tips

- Go and see a doctor to chat about this long before your trip for the best advice.
- It is always advisable to quietly tell the stewards(esses) on the plane. They will probably keep an eye on you.
- Although a common backpacker chat up line... asking the person next to you to hold your hand on take-off can help. Although we would not recommend this if you are male and the person next to you is a massive Geordie docker - he may think you are taking the p*ss
- Try and stay relaxed and chilled from the moment you reach the airport to the time you get on the plane. Get there early, stay comfortable and try and take it in your stride. Getting involved in the usual frantic activity that surrounds getting on a plane will not help!