Q&A WITH FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR KAELI BAUMAN OF FLIGHTFŪD

It should be no surprise by now how much of a fan I am of FLIGHTFŪD. But I don’t think I’ve shared much about how much I am absolutely impressed and amazed by Co-Founder and Creator of the brand and product, Kaeli Bauman. I met Kaeli last summer in a coffeeshop while she was visiting Seattle, and I left our coffee date feeling inspired as ever. We talked a fair amount about flying (as she is an ex-flight attendant for a major airline), her beloved product, the side effects of flying in which she shared so much incredible research that pretty much blew my mind, our favorite layovers, and other jumpseat topics. I really admire her, not just for what she’s created, but for what she stands for and I am excited to share this interview with you.

What was your favorite thing about being a flight attendant? Least favorite?

My favorite thing about being a flight attendant was the flexibility in my schedule and the sense of adventure I felt every time I came to work. My first year as a flight attendant was, in particular, very memorable. It didn’t matter where I was flying to or where my layovers were, I had so much fun. The morale was really high with crew members at that time and we all had so much fun no matter where we were. I made some lifelong friends, and my time spent working as a flight attendant holds a very special place in my heart.

As many good things are, my favorite part of being a flight attendant was a double edged sword – despite loving the flexibility and travel that came with the job, I started to crave more routine and stability with my weeks. It was hard on relationships with people who weren’t in aviation – it was very much it’s own little bubble which other people didn’t understand. 

What was the inspiration behind FLIGHTFŪD?

The inspiration came from my experience working as a flight attendant and getting curious about what was happening to my body in the air. I didn’t feel great while flying and I sensed that it was taking a toll on my body. I went back to school to study holistic nutrition and did research on flying and health – this is where I discovered that there are 6 main effects of flying on the body. 

I went to several health food stores in Toronto (where I was living at the time) and on layovers in NYC and LA looking for a product which could address these 6 effects. Every store gave me 6-9 different supplements to take which wasn’t awesome because I lived out of a suitcase and was really looking for an all-in-one solution specifically for flying. This is when I decided to go out and create the product I wanted myself.

How long did it take you to do all the research you needed to get the product created?

About 3 years. There has been a lot of foundational work behind the scenes prior to our Oct. 2019 launch. Originally, it was just myself, and now there are 3 of us building the company and bringing the brand to life. I had no idea where to begin to start a food and supplement brand, so the first year was what I call a “sponge” stage – learning a lot about manufacturing, regulations, formulations, food science, supply chain, building my business acumen etc. We launched two concept products in 2017/2018 to test the product and get feedback and then officially launched at the end of 2019. 

When was the moment you realized FLIGHTFŪD could succeed?

I knew it could succeed when we started getting repeat orders. It’s one thing when someone purchases your product to try it for the first time, but when they love it and come back again, I think it really shows a successful product-market fit and validates that you are solving a problem people care about. 

What has been the biggest obstacle with launching FLIGHTFŪD?

Great question. I think an interesting challenge for FLIGHTFŪD is that we are, in a way, creating a new market. People don’t really know what is happening to their bodies when they are flying and so because of that, they aren’t actively seeking out a product to help. This means that we have to get creative with our marketing – a lot of what we do is around education.

What is your biggest tip for female entrepreneurs when starting their own company?

I have 3 tips:

  1. Make sure that your business is something you are really passionate about and which adds value. 
  2. Have a lot of patience. You’re going to have to put in a lot of work without any “reward” initially. This is the opposite of how most of us operate, we’re living in a very “instant gratification” obsessed world right now.  
  3. Practice resourcefulness and resilience. You’re going to have to get creative and scrappy, be solutions focused, and bounce back and pivot from setbacks. 

Aside from FLIGHTFŪD, what are your travel essentials?

A big scarf which can sub as a blanket, a good book, and some healthy snacks pre-packed from home. 

What foods do you eat when you fly? Is there anything you avoid?

I try to eat food which is easy to digest and packed with micronutrients. I love packing apple slices with cinnamon and cayenne pepper. I avoid meat and dairy because they tend to take longer to digest and are mucous forming. I also avoid cruciferous veggies like broccoli or cauliflower because they make be feel bloated.

Where can travelers purchase FLIGHTFŪD? 

Right now they can purchase online at www.flightfud.com and soon some local stockists as well. We also offer an Aviation Employee Program where flight attendants and pilots can enjoy our product at 40% off. We launched this program to make the product more affordable and accessible to them – https://www.flightfud.com/pages/aviation-employee-program.

What’s next for FLIGHTFŪD?

We’re focused on building awareness of our flagship product Inflight Elixir, but expect new food products in the future 🙂

How much of your success do you think is hard work and how much of it do you think is luck?

Love this question. Elizabeth Gilbert wrote about ideas and how they are brought to life in her book “Big Magic.” She believes that “Ideas have no material body, but they do have consciousness. Ideas are driven by a single impulse: to be made. Therefore, ideas spend eternity swirling around us, searching for available and willing human partners. When an idea thinks it has found somebody – say, you – who might be able to bring it into the world, the idea will pay you a visit.”

I fully believe that the idea to bring FLIGHTFŪD to life found me when I was at a place in life where the idea was relevant to me (working as a flight attendant) and I paid attention. So I’d say there is a bit of luck with having the idea. The important part is the execution, which is definitely hard work. I fully believe, with conviction, that you can’t “out work hard work.” So for this, I’d say FLIGHTFŪD’s success to date is 10% luck and 90% hard work. 

And with that, I will leave you with the link to support Kaeli and her amazing creation (MY absolute travel essential), FLIGHTFŪD. Try it for yourself the next time your plans call for travel. All the love and take care of that body!


ACCOUNTABILITY IN 2020

As we get ready to wrap up another year, I can’t help but get so excited for 2020. Perhaps it’s my love for even numbers or just the fact that I love the feeling of a fresh start, but either way it inspires me to set goals for myself. I know we should never wait for a new year to set intentions or goals, but I feel like it’s always a good idea to reflect and see what else you can do differently to make yourself proud. Here are some of mine!

  • travel out of the country once a quarter/season
  • call one friend I’ve lost touch with just to say hi at least once a month
  • use a recipe from a cookbook once every two weeks
  • sleep for at least 8 hours a night
  • go on at least one solo trip
  • see a therapist
  • take a new workout class once a month
  • cook for a friend once a month
  • give myself one day off at least once a week (no flying, instagram, emails, etc.)
  • shop at the farmers market at least once every two weeks
  • stay in a treehouse
  • volunteer at least once a month
  • give myself enough time to meditate and journal every morning (even if it’s just for a few minutes)
  • go to at least one concert every few months
  • take mom to italy
  • read one book a month
  • take a lesson in something

This next year, I really want to focus on my growth. I have noticed that I’ve plateaued in my learning and I want to devote more time to learning new recipes, workouts, languages, cultures, activities. As much as I think we should honor where we are today, I think it’s also healthy to set attainable and measurable goals to challenge ourselves. Change can be so good, if we let it. I’d recommend making some small attainable goals of your own. Remember to be specific so you can hold yourself accountable and that way, it’s not as overwhelming too. And remember that less is more! All the love!

MOCKTAILS AT 33,000 FT.

Perhaps it’s pure boredom after passengers in the first class cabin have been fed on a 5 hour flight, but I also had an idea for this post as I was jotting down ideas for Blogmas. I’ve always wanted to be a barista so naturally, I’ve come to love creating different concoctions on the plane. So just imagine my face when taking orders and someone replies with, “surprise me!”. But not everyone is a drinker, and these are so great to try whether you’re working the flight or killing time getting home or onto your next adventure!

CRAN YOU ORANGE? SPRITZ

The perfect sweet drink for anyone! It’s a fan favorite amongst the little ones. You can change the sweetness by playing with the ratios of the juice versus sparkling water.

  • orange juice
  • cran-apple juice
  • sparkling water

Equal parts of each, served with a lime wedge!

GINGER ZINGER LEMONADE

I love having ginger tea on flights because it helps aid digestion, so it’s definitely one of my favorite ingredients to work with on the plane. Next time you fly, add ginger tea to your list of things to pack to create this detox mocktail.

  • ginger tea
  • hot water
  • lemon (bring your own or ask your flight attendant for some!)
  • ice

Make a ginger tea with a half cup of hot water, let steep for a few minutes before adding room temperature water. Add a squeeze of lemon and ice.

FIGHT FŪD TONIC

You guys are probably sick of me talking about Flight Fūd at this point, but I am just so obsessed, okay?! I normally just have it in about 16 ounces of water, but this time, I tried it with sparkling water and WOW. Just wow.

Mix the pack of Flight Fūd elixir with sparkling water. Simple as that!

SEATTLE MULE

A spin off of one of my favorite cocktails – a Moscow Mule. Spicy, sweet, and just right.

  • lime (bring your own or ask your flight attendant for some!)
  • ginger beer
  • splash of juice (POG is my favorite in this one, but cranberry is tasty too!)
  • ice
  • sparkling water – optional to make it less sweet

Muddle the lime. Add ginger beer (and sparkling water if you prefer it less sweet), and a splash of juice. Top with ice.

Enjoy, loves! And as always, fly safe, be kind, and don’t poke your flight attendants!

A WORD FROM THE WISE – TRAVEL TIPS FROM FLIGHT ATTENDANTS

“Sleep when you’re tired, eat when you’re hungry.” – Christie, SEA based.

“Pack slippers because Airbnbs can be dirty.” – Vina, ORD based.

“Whenever traveling to a different time zone, immediately put yourself in that time frame, even if it means pushing through exhaustion. Because then when it is time to go to sleep, you can have a full night’s rest and then be ready to go and fully on that time zone without the jet lag.” – Sean, SEA based.

“Bring snacks!!!!!” – Lindsey, ANC based.

“Pack snacks, bring your sleep kits (eye mask and neck pillow). Plan travel around an event, a race or concert or festival.” – Megan, SEA based.

“Try not to stress about the small things. Getting there is the hardest part! Drink water. Eat your veggies. Smiles go a long way!” – Allie, LAX based.

“Be prepared! Keep a small bag that fits under your seat for easy access with a pen, water bottle, and big scarf to use as a blanket.” – Amber, SEA based.

“Travel light.” – Marina, HKG based.

“Say yes! Try everything, do everything, and don’t hold back! Also, drink water and utilize melatonin. And find travel companions! Cause they elevate every experience and make it even more memorable.” – Kristina, SAN based.

“Always pack a cocktail dress and a pair of heels. You just never know.” – Fay, SEA based.

“Always keep a small bag with headphones, Advil, toothbrush and paste, moisturizer, etc. with you that you can keep under your seat so you don’t have to dig things out of your bigger bag (if it wasn’t checked). I like to do this since I like window seats. I don’t have to disturb others.” – Josh, SEA based.

“I always have a change of clothes in my carry on bag (I’ve been spilled on or had ‘misplaced’ luggage several times and that has totally saved me! Also I (almost) always have my hydroflask on me to cut down on single use plastics and I #FillBeforeIFly” – Justin, SEA based.

“Use packing cubes. I’m the messiest with my clothes and it keeps me organized, even once I get to my destination.. and they keep me from overpacking!” – Vanessa, SFO based.

“Always bring your own hand soap and hand lotion.” – Ashley, SEA based.

“Bring your own healthy snacks and water bottle to fill up past security.” – Shelby, SFO based.

“Travel light by wearing Merino wool and be flexible.” – Sean C., SEA based.

“Show up early. I’d rather enjoy a drink before a flight instead of stressing out in rushing to your flight. Travel can be so unpredictable these days. I think in general, try to incorporate my daily habits into travel. So I can enjoy traveling without feeling any ‘guilt’.” – Rosella, SEA based.

“Less is MORE. When I flew to Greece from my honeymoon, I was fully prepared. Fuzzy socks, toothbrush, mouth wash, eye mask, neck pillow, headphones, snacks, a tablet, the whoolleeee meal deal. Once I sat in my tiny seat I quickly realized i brought WAY too much. Now I know to condense and only bring what I really need! Not only do you have more space around you having not brought as much, but you’re less likely to forget things on the plane! I bring my water bottle, headphones, tablet, a snack or two and call it good!” – Jane, SEA based.

“Treat others with respect. Kindness goes a long way. It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.” – Victor, SFO based.

“For health: Vitamin C. In general: get a massage right before a long flight, don’t plan your entire trip out, spend time every day at a cafe and people watch.” – Patty, SEA based.

“Take the local bus and talk to locals always. On the bus, in stores, everywhere. They will tell you secret places and unique things to see.” – Sarah, ANC based.

“Layer. [for the plane] and bring chapstick.” – Celina, SEA based.

“RESERVE your meals! So helpful on both ends!” – Justine, PDX based.

“Utilize your pockets in the TSA line. If you’re wearing a jacket, vest, or hoodie, throw all those electronics/odds and ends in those pockets. That way, when you get to the front of the line, you can just put your vest/hoodie/jacket thing in the bin and then take it out and run for that flight you’re probably late to.” – Khai, SEA based.

“Smart and light packing. Trust your gut.” – JS, FRA based.

“It’s a part of travel but my best tip would be NOT to put our suitcase on your bed when packing. The wheels are soooo gross!!” – Suzanne, SEA based.

You heard it hear first! All the love and safe travels!

FOODS I EAT AND AVOID WHEN I FLY

The facts are facts. You bloat when you fly. It was kind of eye opening for me when I was a brand new flight attendant and a senior mama pointed out a water bottle to me and said something along the lines of, “see that? That’s your body right now,” as the water bottle expanded before our eyes. I realized then that I am sacrificing a lot for this job. Being punished for eating veggies and hummus? ABSURD. But this is my life, and I want to share with you what I eat and avoid when I fly to feel good when I land.

EAT EAT EAT

  • GREENS! This one is kind of a no brainer. There are so many vitamins we get from greens so whether it’s a $10 green juice from the airport, packed salad from home, or greens tablets (Amazing Grass makes great ones), get em in!
  • Berries. They are full of vitamins and are such a hydrating fruit. Perfect to snack on midflight.
  • Citrus. Vitamin C + hydration. Winner winner chicken dinner.
  • Melon. Another hydrating fruit. Noticing a pattern here?
  • Cucumber. Eat you water!
  • Charcoal. Detoxify as you fly.
  • Ginger. Ever notice why ginger ale is such a popular beverage on flights? It’s great for your tummy! Bring ginger tea to avoid all the sugar.
  • Turmeric. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, I like to sprinkle a bit over veggies (+black pepper to activate the curcumin) or have a golden milk latte midflight!
  • No-legume dips. Listen. I love hummus as much as the next person. In fact, so much that I will sacrifice stomachaches for it sometimes. But the more I fly, the more I realize it’s not worth it, especially not on long flights. I’d rather opt for other dips that are just as good! Bitchin Sauce and Baba Ghanouj are some of my favorites! Kite Hill makes awesome dairy-free dips too.
  • Coconut water. It’s got a lot of electrolytes and great for extra hydration.
  • Kraut. Your digestive system gets confused when you fly, so one of the best things you could do is pay extra attention to your gut!
  • Gluten free oats. I love having oats because it leaves me feeling satiated which keeps me from mindless snacking. (Pro tip: prep your oats in a jar, then ask your flight attendant for hot water! That way you can create your own dream oats and avoid added sugars.)

AVOID AVOID AVOID

  • Legumes. It’s tragic, I know. Especially being plant based. Beans, lentils, chickpeas – I’ll see you when I land.
  • Cruciferous vegetables. Now this is just cruel. We are being punished for eating veggies and it sucks. But here’s the thing – broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, arugula, and cauliflower have fibers and raffinose which cause extreme bloating. And that is no bueno when you fly.
  • Carbonated beverages. I stopped drinking soda awhile ago, but I also stopped drinking sparkling water a little bit ago because of the bloat caused by little air bubbles. Think about it. You’re basically drinking air!
  • Dairy. I don’t consume dairy often anyway, but I especially try to avoid it when I fly because it upsets my stomach.

I should also add that I am not a nutritionist or a professional. For the past five years, my body has been a real life experiment and this is just what works for me. Also note that you should drink A LOT of water. More than you think you’d need. I also love to add FLIGHTFŪD to my water when I fly! I’ve noticed that when I take it, I land less bloated and fatigue. It’s like magic. As always, I hope this helps!! All the (gut) love.

TRAVEL SMART FOR THE HOLIDAYS

‘Tis the season! Between family, friends, work, and extra time to vacation, we’re here, there, and everywhere. I love working this time of year because it warms my heart seeing families reunited. Hearing stories about why people are traveling: whose grandparents we’re visiting to introduce baby to or what our unaccompanied minors are most looking forward to when visiting dad. It’s so special to be a small part of the journey. This time of year also brings new travelers and I just thought I’d share some tips to traveling smart this time of year (but also all the time).

  • Get to the airport early to fill your water bottle, get food, and use the restroom all before your flight. Plus, it’s nice to not be rushed!
  • Plan ahead if you have dietary restrictions and/or allergies. Pack what works for you and never assume the airport/airline will have a gluten free, vegan, kosher, nondairy, keto, whole 30, etc option.
  • Ask friends for music, podcast, movie, and book recommendations and come prepared with pre-downloaded material. Don’t forget your headphones!
  • Give yourself more than enough time for connecting flights to save yourself the stress later.
  • Essential oils work wonders for nausea, stomachaches, headaches. Just be mindful of others.
  • Have empathy and patience for airport employees, airline employees, your fellow travelers, and yourself. You don’t know what someone is going through and everyone will be much happier that way.
  • Stay hydrated and bring your favorite snacks!
  • Pack leftovers after visiting family and friends. You’re allowed to bring any food items with the exception of things like yogurt and soup.
  • Please and thank you goes a long way. Be courteous with your seat mate, cab drivers, hotel staff, flight attendants, gate agents, and TSA agents. So many people sacrifice family time to work during the holidays.
  • Don’t forget to pack your vitamins! Keeping your routines consistent is important especially to combat jet lag.
  • Extra supplements I like to take while flying are: Flight Fūd (inflight elixir, helps fight fatigue, jet lag, and other negative side effects of flying), greens tablets (I like the ones from Amazing Grass, Nuun (boost of hydration), and ginger tea to help aid digestion. These are not necessary but I’ve noticed a difference in how I feel when I land especially after long flights.
  • If you are an anxious flyer, check out my previous blog post written for anxious flyers here.

As always, I’m here for you! You can best reach me via DMs at @kaleintheclouds. Fly safe, fly happy, and fly smart. All the love.

SUPPLEMENTS ON THE FLY

I love taking care of my body by getting lots of sleep and eating tons of veggies – but when I fly? Let’s just say my body needs a little extra TLC. Between working redeye flights and living half of my life at 30,000 ft., I find myself feeling sleep deprived, bloated, fatigue, lethargic, and stressed. All of these symptoms can put me in a little funk, and that’s not okay! I am a happy person and I want to keep it that way.

I started experimenting with supplements about a year ago. I tried everything from charcoal pills, digestive enzymes, and probiotics in all shapes and sizes (pill form, plant based yogurts, kombucha, etc.). I couldn’t find a routine that would stick and it was hard to determine what fixed what. I also feel like I was constantly being my own guinea pig based on random bits of information that I would receive from other flight attendants, blogs, and influencers.

I was really intrigued to try some of Body Bio‘s supplements for one main reason: it’s backed by science. I LOVE SCIENCE. There’s nothing better than seeing scientific evidence backing why something works versus hearing someone rave about a product “just because.” Body Bio proudly announces on their website’s homepage that they have 45 years of research behind their product development, and rightfully so! Because they are a science and research-based company, many physicians back their products.

So, I decided to be my own guinea pig again. This time, with more confidence and hope! A couple of weeks ago, I received my Foundational Kit in the mail and have been using them ever since. The products I’ve been implementing into my daily routine are:

  • Sodium Butyrate: detoxifier of ammonia and neurotoxins to promote digestion and a healthy liver
  • Balance Oil: healthy Omega fats to aid heart and brain health
  • PC (Phosphatidylcholine): produces liposomes in the body which supports brain function and memory

All of these three key supplements combined are able to support me during times of stress while working 2 jobs and constantly being on the go, and most importantly, aiding my “permanent bloat.” Here are the main differences that I’ve noticed:

  • LESS BLOAT!!!! This is HUGE for me. As a flight attendant, I’ve joked about accepting the fact that I will be permanently bloated, but all the while being somewhat serious about it too. Since using Sodium Butyrate on a regular basis and ESPECIALLY while flying, I’ve noticed a drastic difference in how I feel. My stomach doesn’t hurt as much and I’m not as uncomfortable and inflamed when I fly. That said, I still have been avoiding processed foods (especially foods high in sodium), been drinking lots of water, and avoiding carbonated beverages. It also helps to chew slower when you eat to aid your digestion.
  • More clarity. Balancing two jobs is not easy, but I’m handling it like a pro thanks to PC and balance oil. I’m usually a bit disorganized and scatterbrained, but I feel like I’ve been able to handle keeping a booked schedule pretty well. Instead of spacing out and stressing about what I have to do, I’ve turned to meditation and creating an abundance of to do lists.
  • Less stress. With more clarity and feeling better physically, I’ve been less stressed. Stress is linked to so many diseases and illnesses. Personally, I feel like staying calm and stress-free is the key to living a positive and healthy life.
  • More energy. I’ve been able to get up earlier to get my day started and getting so much done before going to work, which makes me feel super productive and happy!
  • Better communication. Sometimes, I might need some help with words or I’m unsure of how to approach a situation, but lately, I’ve been able to communicate pretty well. I’ve been able to crank out business e-mails, as well as strengthening my problem solving skills at work with both jobs.
  • Detoxify. This is not a benefit I can see or feel, but based on research and knowing what these properties are meant to do, I know that these supplements are helping detoxify my body from toxins from flying. As a flight attendant, I am exposed to a crazy amount of toxins IE: radiation, so I’m glad to know that these supplements are naturally detoxifying my body!

It’s safe to say, I’m really happy with my results so far and I plan on taking these supplements to aid my mental and physical health for a long time. I’m so glad that there are products out there (BACKED BY RESEARCH!) made to make my life as a flight attendant just that much more enjoyable! I hope you find this useful and that you can try it out for yourself to see the difference it can make. If you want to learn more, click here! All the love!

FLYING ON A BUDGET

I feel super lucky because I get the honor of taking families to Disneyland and newlyweds to their dream honeymoon in Hawaii, but I can’t help but wonder how much they spent on the entire trip: transportation, snacks at the airport, snacks on the plane, activities, souvenirs, and everything in between. That said, here are some tips on how to fly on a budget (bonus: very eco friendly!).

BRING YOUR OWN FOOD

Seriously! Bring leftovers from dinner, meal prep, whatever you have left in the fridge, snacks, whatever! I know that the main concern is that food isn’t TSA-friendly but that’s just a crazy rumor. Most food is TSA approved. The only foods I would avoid is anything of a creamy consistency, IE: yogurt, nut butter, oatmeal, chia seed pudding. Everything else goes! Bring food you’ll look forward to eating so you’re not tempted to spend $7 on a bag of pretzel chips. I promise your wallet will love you for this one.

PACK REUSABLE WATER BOTTLES, MUGS, JARS, STRAWS, UTENSILS & BAGS

Not only is packing your own cutlery, straws, food containers, and water bottles great for the environment, but you’ll also save some bucks! If you bring your own water bottle, you can have a coffeeshop at the airport fill it up for free! Avoid paying outrageous prices for water at the airport especially since most airports offer water fountains with an option to refill water bottles. Lots of places offer a little discount for bringing your own cups/bags too!

BRING A BOOK & CARD GAMES

I will admit that even I have PAID for WiFi on a long flight before. If you think about it, being disconnected is often times a GOOD THING. Try looking at it as some “me time.” Borrow your ultimate “back burner- don’t have time to read” book (we all have one). Bring some cards! They’re easy to travel with and affordable. My favorite “game” lately has been finding the most random questions and would you rathers and asking my friends. It’s so much fun and you will find that there’s lots to learn even about your best friend.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF DEALS AS THEY COME

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve passed up a good deal on something I needed because my trip was still a few weeks away. I am a sucker for a good deal, but I try to be mindful about what I need versus what I want. If I’m desperately needing to replace my packing cubes and I just so happen to come across a good quality ones on sale, it would be smart for me to get them. However, if I found some that were decently priced but the quality was questionable, then I would probably wait a little. It’s all about weighing out your options and figuring out what works for you! However, I find that sometimes it’s better not to wait for something better to pop up. (One of my best examples of this, not travel related, was snagging a Vitamix for 40% off on prime day. Best investment ever!!).

FIND SOMEONE WHO JUST WENT ON A SIMILAR TRIP

One of my best tips is to find a friend who just went on a similar trip you’re planning. I’ve had friends ask if they could borrow my electric converters, backpack, and even hiking boots. These things that you may only use once a year can end up costing you a lot of money. The best way to ask (so it’s not so awkward and random) is to make casual conversation about traveling/your upcoming trip or post something about it on your social media account(s). You’ll be surprised who you might hear from who will have great advice for you too!

As always, I can only hope that this is helpful to you guys! Let me know if you have any additional tips I can add! All the love from 33,000 ft.

POST FLIGHT SELF CARE

Traveling is probably my most favorite thing to do in the world, but flying is EXHAUSTING. As a flight attendant, I fly more than the average person and after years of doing this, I’ve finally figured out what works for me. I am also going to be sharing ideas via my Instagram friends too!

  • Going outside for some fresh air. I always feel so much better going outside after a long flight! Think about that recycled air – yikes!
  • Grounding. This is a new concept for me, but I am loving it! Grounding means to walk around outside BARE FOOT. Sounds weird, but it’s seriously the coolest and most relaxing feeling.
  • Hydrate. I like to stay hydrated while I fly, and luckily enough, being stuck in the middle or window seat is not an issue. Just remember to continue drinking water post flight because flying is super wearing on your body! The best way to “detox” is to hydrate. You don’t need fancy wellness shots, I swear.
  • Stay active while still listening to my body. After flying, most days I crave a walk or a good sweaty workout in the gym. Other days, I just want to crawl into bed. I try my best to honor my body.
  • Eating a nourishing meal and anti-inflammatory foods. Flying can mean snacking on things you don’t usually eat, and THAT’S OKAY. But after flying, I like to try and make sure that I am taking care of my body by consuming foods that make me FEEL GOOD. For me, that’s hydrating foods (cucumber, tomatoes, watermelon) and anti-inflammatory foods (greens, veggies cooked with turmeric and black pepper, nuts). I also love having smoothies after flights because it’s easier to digest.
  • Gua sha! I love to gua sha every morning but lately I’ve been using my gua sha after flights as well. It gives me a good reason to wash my face, apply nourishing skin serums and oils, then giving my face a little TLC. Gua sha is known to relieve pain, tension, and puffiness!

Other suggestions via IG friends:

  • “I drink a lot of coconut water to replenish electrolytes lost from working! And take a hot shower and relax with essential oils”
  • “Go to the gym and sweat it all out!”
  • “Throw on a face and hair mask, dance it out, journal, and hot shower”
  • “Epsom salt bath and legs up on the wall. Non negotiable”
  • “Shower and then read a good book”
  • “HYDRATE. And shower”
  • “Put on fresh sheets if I’m going home!!”
  • “Go for a long walk outdoors”
  • “I drink sooo much water when I get home after my trips and try to do yoga or exercise!”
  • “Wine. Lots of it.” (same)
  • “Shower!! I always feel so greasy after flights especially long ones”
  • “Thinking about what’s good to eat there!!” (also same)
  • “Drink loads of water and use rose toner spray. Eeeeks dry skin”
  • “Cryotherapy- esp helps with jet lag”
  • “Shower and skin care routine!”
  • “Sleep. I also like journaling and meditating, and skincare”
  • “Immediately unpack, do laundry, and get things put back where they belong”
  • “Take a nap! Because I probs needed 2 Xanax and a wine to get on the plane in the first place” (lol you go brave little toaster!)
  • “Def get fresh air, try to put my toes in the sand/ocean”

Hope this helps, my little gypsies! Safe travels and all the love.

FLIGHT ATTENDANT MUST HAVES (FOOD/HEALTH)

We all know how exhausting flying can be. Imagine doing it for a living!! Yep, I chose this life and I have no regrets. But that doesn’t mean I don’t get tired, fatigue, or jet lagged. There is no magic pill when it comes to traveling and every trip is different. Here are some things I like to keep on hand to make life a little easier, smoother, and more stress-free.

  • coffee – 3am wake ups are no joke. I love Bulletproof’s cold brew because it’s convenient, hassle free, SUGAR FREE but still tasty, and their packaging is recyclable which is super important to me.
  • greens – preferably in tabs because they pack well. I love the ones from Amazing Grass!
  • collagen sticks – I take collage daily because it helps with my joints (I like to run and do HIIT workouts) and because I open so many soda cans, I need my nails to be hella strong.
  • ginger and peppermint tea – both aid digestion. Flying always throws my digestion off.
  • healthy snacks – this goes without saying. Fruits, veggies, nuts, the less processed the better! But sometimes I will opt for a high fiber, high protein bar with low sugar.
  • charcoal pills – helps with bloating on the plane.
  • propolis throat spray – to help prevent sickness! I use it the second I feel off.
  • apple cider vinegar – so many benefits to taking ACV daily! I always have some in a little reusable jar.
  • adaptogens – I love carrying ashwagandha on me. It really helps me cope with stress!

*pro tip: stay hydrated, chew slowly, avoid carbonated beverages, and only eat when you’re hungry to avoid bloat! Our bodies bloat naturally when we fly but doing these things will prevent from maximum bloatage.

Hope you found this useful! All of the love and safest of travels!