Great thread! I have only flown once but am looking forward to flying again someday. Flying up above the clouds is truly amazing, especially with thunderstorm clouds and at dusk. We even flew over the Grand Canyon! It is also amazing how cold it is up there -45! Squeeze your nose and blow to clear your ears is my advice, but be aware that sometimes air can leak out of your eyelids.

I've never had a problem with the underwire in my bra setting off the metal detector. I did get searched randomly at the gate a few weeks ago and the little metal rings which allow the straps to be adjusted on my bra made the wand beep, but that was it.

I've not had problem w/underwire bra setting off metal detector --- and for a gal w/ a pair of 40-D's, I need a serious support bra. Now I have traveled wearing a pair of Lee Rider jeans which DID set off the metal detector; apparently the metal button was the cause.

Above have posted great tips. I just wanted to add, dont sit by the window if you just had your hair done.

I can't help but ask why you have to take eyebrow wax on vacation. Do your brows grow back that fast? I have mine waxed about every 3 weeks. I can't imagine having to wax my own brows esp. when I'm supposed to be having fun. As we girls know, waxing ain't fun. Leave the wax at home and if they start to look unruly, smooth them down w/vaseline.

I hope Lynn won't mind me posting my question here. I want to ask how I can keep my make-up as fresh as those of flight attendant.

Rebecca-Prescriptives markets a product called Super Flight Cream which helps to keep the skin hydrated. It's around $35.00. I used it when I was a flight attendant and it's great.

Makeup will clog your pores big time when you fly. I use a tinted moisturizer, cream blusher, cream eyeshadow. Nothing caky. Drink tons of water.

Here is a list of things I usually pack in my carry on:
Hand cream
Lip balm
Saline solution nasal spray
Tiger Balm to soothe headaches
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Washcloth
Face moisturizer
Spray bottle filled with water
Skin toner or cleansing cloths for a quick face and body wash
Deodorant or a light body mist
Eye drops
Antibacterial wipes.
Extra contacts/saline solution
Extra baggies plastic bags

Be sure to eat before you board or at least bring substantial food and drink on to the plane. (Sandwich, Chicken, etc). Bring water to drink. Chew gum or suck lollypops when you take off and land, so your ears don't pop. I have never bought expensive ear mechanisms- gum/pops do fine. Bring tylenol, or what ever works for a headache. Bring a book, a magazine and something else to entertain you, as you will get bored of doing the same thing, trust me. You can also watch a movie, depending on the length of your flight.

As far as carry-on, definitely bring a change of clothes- underwear, bra, shirt, pants, socks and pj's. The airline lost my luggage when I went to Bermuda- that stunk. Also in the carry-on, toothbrush, paste, medicine (if prescription), camera (give to security person, don't let it go thru scanner).

One thing no one mentioned: put in some sort of identification on the INSIDE of your suitcase both checked and carried on- a business card or similar, with your name and tel# for where you will be and your home. That way, if the id tag falls off of the outside of your suitcase (make sure you have one), the airlines, can identify it.

One more thing- Put a bright colored ribbon on the handle of the suitcase(s) that you check in. It will be really easy to spot at the baggage check. Remember, you may not be the only one with that type of suitcase.

Have fun.

If you have a sensitive stomach, you may want to stay away from acidic beverages during a long flight. For me personally, OJ and turbulance don't mix, however black coffee is usually no problem.

To:FormerFlightAttendant & FrequentFlyer

Thank you for your advice.