I grew up in Hawaii so when the temperature dips below 73 I tend to get a bit chilly. Doesn’t bode well for dealing with Wisconsin winters, but I digress. Which is why I never venture to the grocery store, movie theater or restaurant without a jacket, regardless of the season. It’s also the reason I never board an airplane without dressing in layers, even when I am flying home to Hawaii.
I’ve taken the 15-hour flight home dozens of times and I am still shocked by the number of travelers who board the Hawaii-bound plane in New York or Chicago in the dead of winter wearing nothing more than a pair of shorts and a windbreaker. If you have a low tolerance for cold like I do then you must stare in utter amazement at these near naked flyers as well.
I’ve never been on a flight where I regretted preparing for the frigid cabin temps. It may not take a rocket scientist to figure out ways to stay warm on an airplane; still I hope the following tips will help you keep toasty on your next flight.
Dress in Layers. I mentioned this earlier, but it bears repeating—-if you are traveling from a frigid climate to a warm one it’s a good idea to dress in several layers of clothing. By doing so you can take off a layer at a time depending on how warm the cabin gets. Likewise, if you need more warmth, you’ll have a layer to put back on.
Invest in Wool Socks. I always pack a special pair of super fine wool socks (the warmest ones I have) in my carry on bag. If the flight is especially frigid I pull them on over my nylon socks. Otherwise, there have been times when I have used them as mittens while taking an in-flight nap.
Move Around. Studies show that if you get out of your seat and take a few steps to the back of the plane you will increase your heat production by 20%. If you are really cold take a few laps up and down the aisles and end your walk in the back of the plane where you can request a cup of hot coffee or tea from a flight attendant.
Ask for Help. Don’t just sit there and freeze; ask a flight attendant to turn up the heat. It helps if you can get the people sitting near you to echo your chilly sentiment. Since flight attendants are constantly moving around the cabin (and generating body heat), they might not recognize that icicles are forming on your toes.
Choose Your Seat Wisely. If you are sensitive to the cold, request a seat away from the exit doors. You will have to sacrifice the extra legroom those bulkhead seats provide, but you will gain about five degrees in the process.
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