Follow these great tips for that polished look on your next flight! I guarantee you’ll stand out from the crowd;)

Got any tips for being comfortable, but still looking glam (or at least not wearing pajamas) while flying? Or better yet, how do you stay looking fresh on a long haul flight? Join us on Facebook and Twitter we’d love to hear from you!

When traveling across two or more time zones you become prone to jet lag. Though there is no quick fix for jet lag, here a few tips to get you through:

1. Be in the best shape you can be before your trip. If you have advanced notice, start eating healthy, take your vitamins and get plenty of sleep while you can.

2. Once on your flight, set your watch to the time zone you will be arriving in.

3. Plan to “be” on the time zone you will be arriving in. Once on your flight try to sleep if it is night time at your arrival destination. Set an alarm to wake when it is morning at your arrival city.

4. Once you arrive, if you must take a nap, limit yourself to 1-3 hours. This is difficult and you’ll want to sleep longer, (In fact you may want to shoot yourself, rather than get up) but if you do you will have trouble going to sleep on time in your new time zone.

5. Try melatonin. It worked for me, but I had crazy dreams so I don’t like it. I know many people that love it.

6. Have a night cap! No, not the alcoholic version. As tempting as that may be, your sleep will be interrupted enough without adding alcohol. Stick with a night time tea, like chamomile.

7. Go to bed at the time of night you usually go to bed, in your new time zone. You may still feel groggy the next day and/or wake through the night, but this is the quickest way to be on the local time zone so you can make the most of your trip.

What are your tips for jet lag? We would love to hear your ideas! Join us on Facebook and twitter to continue the discussion. Shopping for new luggage? Go for the brand that airline crews use, but save money by visiting their outlet, TravelProluggageoutlet.com.  And don’t forget my discount code: theflyingpinto15 at check out to receive an additional 15% off your total order!

*front page photo courtesy of the migrating mom.

Guest post by reader Sylwia Stypulkowski:

Ever hold back on something you wanted because you questioned whether the time was right or if you should really be spending money on yourself like that? Welcome to my mentality…

For my 27th birthday, I decided to push that sort of thinking aside and treat myself for once. All my life, I always talked about going to Machu Picchu in Peru. Yet somehow, it was never the right time. A week before my birthday, I asked myself, “When is it going to be the right time?”
I locked myself in my apartment for that entire Saturday and googled away. I had far too many excuses and it was time to just go for it. By Sunday, I had a rough draft of a plan and through the week, I perfected it as much as I possibly could.

I wound up going on my adventure with a colleague, who through the trip, actually became a very close friend. I knew I had the perfect travel companion with me when I mentioned that I had no actual hotel reservation, just emails with the owner. She just replied, “Ok, if anything we’ll just find something else!” (and that we did when our reservation failed to be found. haha)

We arrived in Peru in the midst of the rainy season, and yet the sun was shining and the sky, though cloudy, was an amazing, piercing color that I’ve only seen before in a Crayola box labeled “sky blue.” Within a few minutes of our cab ride, we could not stop saying, “Oh my god, oh my god, this is so beautiful. I can’t believe we’re here. Wow.” It felt surreal, like we were driving through a postcard image. Our hotel in Ollantaytambo, Hotel Sol, was a small quaint building. Our room faced the Urubamba River which provided a constant soothing sound of rushing water.

There is no one way to describe the experience of when we arrived at Machu Picchu. It is somewhat spiritual, as you gaze in amazement at the bright green mountains covered at the top with snow, and imagine the Incas that walked the trails you stand on. You can’t help but wonder at the hard work that went into constructing all those stone houses and why someone would ever abandon such beauty.
Your mind is blank, but at the same time swarming with a million thoughts a minute. There are hundreds if not thousands of tourists walking along with you, and yet it is completely possible to feel like you are the only one there. In all the noise, there is a silence. There is a sense of serenity and peace. I can only imagine the full experience of those who hike the entire Inca trail. We took the train and bus there. However, I get the feeling I’ll be back one day doing the entire hike.

Our trip wasn’t very long, 3 days to be exact, and yet my life feels changed forever. For once, I took care of me, and gave myself the best birthday present I could have ever received. My story isn’t about convincing you to go to Machu Picchu, even though I highly encourage that as well. What this story is really about is taking a risk, rewarding yourself, and letting go of a mentality that far too many of us possess. It’s ok to splurge on yourself and be completely selfish. And remember, today is as perfect a day to do it as any other.

Sylwia has been a loyal reader of The Flying Pinto for a long time so when she told me about her trip to Machu Picchu I asked her if she would share her experience with all of you! Thanks, Sylwia! 

Want to chat? Join me on twitter and face book! Are you a fellow crew member? Join me on my latest venture, JetJoose and share layover tips with other flight attendants!

Flight Attendants have special needs when it comes to filing taxes and are allowed certain deductions that could make itemizing well worth it.  The airline gives a flight attendant what’s called per diem. It’s like an expense account. A really small expense account. So small in fact that the government allows us to write off  much more. Which is why it’s to our benefit to seek out a tax professional that specializes in airline crews. Flightax.com is exactly that and it is owned by a flight attendant. Flightax understands how beneficial our per diem deductions are that they will actually look at a flight attendants schedule and get exact allowances for the day and city they were in. The amounts change day to day and city to city and some tax places will just estimate the amounts. An average crew schedule of 80 hours a month can result in as much as $10-$15,000. in deductions!

Per diem is not all that is special to airline crew members.  Flight attendants can also write off  uniform shoes, but only if you purchase them from a uniform store. Union dues? Yes! Ever hear of emergency cab fare deduction? Check it out and much more on flightax.com. Did I mention they’ve never lost an audit?

More questions? Join us on facebook and twitter. And, don’t forget to buy new luggage from Travel Pro using my discount code: theflyingpinto15….and then write it off;)

• The Business Traveler: A wheeled garment bag is best for most business travelers. The clothes packed need to arrive as pressed as possible. Packing in a garment bag allows you arrive to that business meeting that starts an hour after you land looking like you didn’t just get off an airplane. It also has ample room for everything else you need to pack.
• The Family: When the entire family travels together and there are two adults involved, I recommend two roller boards. A larger one (22″ or larger) for checking and a smaller (18-22″) for carrying on. Mix and match clothing, meaning make sure everyone has at least a couple of outfits in the carry on suitcase just in case the airline “ahem” misplaces your checked bag. Checking one bag allows you to bring whatever size liquids you need while helping stream line your trip through security…one less thing to pull out in the TSA line. Also, it frees one parents hands to help with the kids while the carry on suitcase can “carry” your cooler and smaller carry on.
• The Solo Traveler: A perfect bag for you is the 18″-22″ roller board. If you’re headed on vacation and not packing business attire you are free to roll your clothes which saves space and keeps your clothes mostly wrinkle free. Choose outfits that mix and match and softer fabrics that can be rolled tight. You’ll be surprised how much fits.
• The Over-nighter: (the deluxe rolling tote with computer sleeve) I know some extremely talented packers (flight attendants) and if you are going somewhere for just a day or two this bag can suit all your needs. Fits both your clothes and computer and less is always more when flying.

Visit Travelproluggageoutlet.com for these and many more bags to fit your travel needs. I’ve even scored an extra 15% off their already discounted prices for my readers! Just use the promo code: theflyingpinto15 at check out.

“Do you have to possess a college degree or prior flight attendant training upon applying to be a flight attendant?”

The short answer is no. Most major airlines prefer a college degree but, do not require one. Since most major airlines now require you to be twenty one before you apply it makes sense to go to school before becoming a flight attendant. Not only will you make yourself more attractive to the airlines but, it will also give you something to fall back on. Once you are off reserve status, a career as a flight attendant offers a lot of flexibility. You may choose to have a side career, or retire your wings after twenty years as a flight attendant and pursue another career.

If becoming a flight attendant is a second career for you, then you do not need a degree to apply at most airlines. There’s a misconception that you have to be young to apply to be a flight attendant but, many people join the airlines later in life. Most major airlines value life experience. Especially from those who have raised families. I have also found that people who have had “real” jobs appreciate their new career as flight attendants the most.

One thing you definitely don’t need is flight attendant training prior to applying with the airlines. All airlines will provide training once you are hired.

Have you considered becoming a flight attendant as a second career? It’s a wonderful way to travel and see the world once the nest is empty! Bonus if you have a pension coming in from your first career! Have questions? Join us on Facebook or Twitter. You can also tune into The Crew Lounge to hear more about the lives and careers of flight attendants.

Photo courtesy

• A big warm sweater is a great place to start. Invest in a nice sweater for travel. Underneath wear layers, a tank top, and a long sleeved shirt. This works anytime of year. You can peel your layers as you get to a warm destination or add the layers if you get cold on your flight.

• Stylish leggings or pants. The key to comfort is to make sure your pants have stretch. You can even find jeans that will work. I’m not against yoga pants but, if you go this route make sure the rest of you is dressed with style by wearing a nice top, scarf, jewelry and shoes not sneakers.

• Speaking of shoes. You don’t need to to wear sneakers to be comfortable. I travel in ballet flats or loafers (think: slip on) unless I really need boots at my destination in which case I wear the boots because they take up way to much space in the suitcase. If you travel frequently think of buying a few pair of shoes special for travel. Your feet swell when flying so I have shoes that are a half size too big just for travel.

• The right carry on. You know that bag that extra purse, or laptop bag that you are allowed in addition to your one carry-on? That’s the bag I’m talking about. Make it count. Big bags are in, take advantage of it and use it for all your carry-on essentials. The right bag can add a lot of style to your whole look.

• A great scarf that will complete your outfit and double as a small blanket. Anything that does double duty while traveling is worth its weight in gold.

• The right cosmetics. I travel with bare essentials make-up, not only is it great for your skin but, it’s powder (tsa friendly). Lip balm, LUSH solid moisturizer for my skin and disposable toothbrushes that don’t need water.

• The Ziploc: I keep eye drops in my tsa baggy. Flying is extremely dehydrating not to mention eye drops can be just the right thing to make you appear awake after a red-eye flight.

•  The right luggage. Black is key, it goes with everything and doesn’t show the dirt. (Use my discount code to enjoy 15% off at Travel Pro: theflyingpinto15)

Just prior to initial descent head to the lavatory adjust your outfit to suit your destination, brush your teeth, add lipstick and voila! You’ve arrived in style.

How do you travel? Is looking good important? What tips do you have for adding style to air travel? Join the conversation on Facebook and twitter. Interested in the flight attendant’s lifestyle? Take a peek behind the galley curtain by subscribing to my podcast, The Crew Lounge. 

*Shoes available at TBshoestore.com

It’s articles like these that make me realize how misinformed the flying public really is. Air travel is extremely safe and 2011 was one of the safest years in aviation. As much as we all love to hate the FAA they have FARs (federal aviation regulations) in place to protect us and keep air travel safe. Flight Attendants, who are often made out to be the bad guys are on the airplane to inform passengers of the FARs and make sure everyone is compliant. I’ve always felt that the airlines take a “do what I say because I said so” attitude when it comes to their rules which is partly why I started this blog, to inform and educate the flying public.

This story about the family of six, the Fickes is a perfect example of a family who doesn’t fly often and doesn’t understand the reason behind the rules. The explanation is simple but, if you don’t fly a lot you may not understand. The Fickes have four children under the age of three (three of which are under the age of two and eligible to be lap children). The Fickes assumed they could purchase three tickets and each have a lap child on their lap. All in the same row. There are two reasons they could not. The first being that a three year old cannot have a baby on their lap, you must be eighteen to hold a lap child on US Airways. The second being there is only one extra oxygen mask per row of seats on a plane. The FAA requires enough oxygen masks per person in each row. You know that part of the safety demonstration where we say, “put your mask on first before assisting others?” It’s actually extremely important that you have oxygen in the case of a decompression and unlike the rules about the electronic devices no one can argue this one! The family thought they were being discriminated against for having too many children. Not the case!

Anytime you are purchasing tickets be sure to read the airlines policies. All the information the Fickes needed was on the US Airways web site.

Confused about any of  the airlines rules? You can ask your question on Facebook or twitter. You can also write us at FA@upgrd.com and we may answer your question on The Crew Lounge Podcast.

What twelve days of (stressful, overbooked, weather-delayed, gate-checked, crowded, hilarious and fun) holiday travel gave to me:

Twelve Passengers Fuming

The “customer service” line at SEA airport was so long, and the weather across the entire country was so nice…I didn’t even want to ask.

Eleven Excuses for Drinking

Nothing says “holiday travel stress relief” like a Bloody Mary (or wine, or champagne) at 35,000 feet. ‘Tis the season!

Ten Miles of Schlepping

Airports keep getting bigger and bigger, and it seems that no matter where I’m flying, my gate is at the end of the furthest concourse in the terminal. I think it’s just one of the universal laws of holiday travel. My longest airport sprint (we’ll call it a “reindeer run”) took place at SFO, where half the passengers on a full 777-200 came down the jetway completely out of breath and dripping with sweat.

Nine Segments Flying

My holiday travel schedule in the weeks leading up to Christmas. EWR-ATL, ATL-EWR, EWR-LAS, LAS-EWR, EWR-SEA, SEA-SFO, SFO-LAX, LAX-AUS, DFW-EWR

Eight Bags a-Missing

It’s a bummer when luggage goes missing. I hope the owners of these suitcases have been happily reunited with their bags for the holidays.

Seven Pax Commuting

While taking the first morning BART train to San Francisco International Airport, I see one passenger who bears uncanny resemblance to Santa Claus. Perhaps his flying sleigh is stored at a hangar at SFO.

Six Whack Jobs Waiting

Everyone gets so! excited! to fly! during the holiday season! These six eager beavers are ready and waiting, though boarding won’t actually commence for another 35 minutes.

Five Inflight Films

Crazy Stupid Love, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, The Hangover Part II, Horrible Bosses, Bad Teacher

Four Rising Suns

I’ve never seen so many consecutive sunrises over so many different cities. I’m normally a sunSET kind of girl. It’s nice to see how the early side lives for a change.

Three Boogie Boards

I spent a good chunk of time at this boogie board-adorned LAX baggage carousel. I flew into Los Angeles on one plane, but my tardy bag made it onto another, giving me an extra hour to grab a holiday-themed latte.

Two French Toasts

After years of choosing between eggs or cereal on morning flights, I was stunned when recently given a new third option of French Toast. Variety is the spice of life!

One Crazy Lady in the Lounge

I was so taken by an Australian passenger wearing a paper Christmas tiara in the United lounge at LAX, I asked her if I could snap a photo of her “holiday spirit.” She offered to take one of me (wearing her crown) instead. Here’s my dramatic reenactment of one very…happy holiday traveler.

Another great guest post from our favorite foodie frequent flier, Foodie International! Be sure to follow her adventures on Facebook and twitter!

]]> http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2011/12/twelve-days-of-holiday-travel.html/feed 4 http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2011/12/the-crazy-things-passengers-say-to-flight-attendants.html http://www.theflyingpinto.com/2011/12/the-crazy-things-passengers-say-to-flight-attendants.html#comments Thu, 22 Dec 2011 13:00:31 +0000 The Flying Pinto http://www.theflyingpinto.com/?p=1724 If you haven’t had a chance check out my podcast The Crew Lounge on upgrd.com! I’m proud to say we’re up to 79 episodes which you can subscribe to for free on itunes! And, while you’re there be sure to rate and review us! You can also check out a whole section of airline bloggers at upgrd.com called The Crew Room! Each week on UPGRD I’ll be posting some things I “over hear” from other flight attendants!

The idea for The Crew Lounge was to give everyone a peek inside the life of a flight attendant. Social media has become a great resource for me to not only give you my insights but, that of my fellow co-workers. I belong to a private flight attendant chat room, and though I can’t share everything with you sometimes there are funny or interesting threads that I can. So, here’s what I overheard in “the crew room” this week!

A flight attendant asks, “what is the craziest thing a passenger has said to you?”

• Kim: I had a lady ring her call bell and ask me how to roll the window down…SERIOUSLY!! I had to hold in my reaction. I asked another flight attendant to go help the lady, as I couldn’t. We laughed about that one the rest of the flight!!

Head over to UPGRD.com to see more!

• VIOlight Personal/Travel Toothbrush Sanitizer The convenient personal toothbrush sanitizer for people on-the-go!The Violight Personal/Travel Toothbrush Sanitizer uses  germ-eliminating UV technology in a go-anywhere package. The germicidal light activates as soon as you close the lid, and in 6 minutes your toothbrush is sanitized and stored.
• Travel Power Strip Ever been frustrated by lack of outlets in your hotel room? Me too!
• Eco Tools Travel Set This is for the ladies. I love my eco tools travel make-up brushes.
• Travel Laundry Clothes Line The Flexoline has loops on both ends that can stretch across the bathroom up to 7 feet and be attached to a shower head or towel rack.
• Moleskine Journals Great for notes on your journey, lots of colors and designs to choose from they’re incredibly durable with thick acid-free paper and a high quality binding.
• Starbucks Gift Cards All the airports have them and we all need our caffeine fix while traveling!
• Ear Plugs They’re simple, they’re cheap and they work! A must have for anyone getting on an airplane!
• Immersion Heater Portable heater for warming coffee, tea, soup, and more. A perfect travel companion.

And, remember if you’re shopping for a flight attendant you can probably get away with waiting for the sales after the holidays to buy for them! Most of us are flying!

Any questions about air travel? Join me on Facebook/theflyingpintoblog or @theflyingpinto. You can also join me in The Crew Lounge and hang out with me and some of my flight attendant friends while we discuss industry news, and have great conversation with our guests! Have a kindle? Subscribe to The Flying Pinto for automatic downloads.