Top suggestions from a frequent plus-size traveler for improving comfort when traveling

Before visiting a new nation, one must conduct many checks and studies, as any seasoned traveler knows. Most of the time, they are straightforward inquiries like "what is the local currency?" "how much is the time difference behind us?" and "is public transportation secure in this country?" As a plus-sized traveler, this has always been a little more challenging.

Being plus-sized comes with a few extra  What is the carry-on baggage weight restriction? Is our nation fatphobic or body-positive? Who has the roomiest seats among the airlines? When must I purchase two seats?

Hawaii

I recently missed a vital step when booking a journey to Japan, so I spent 11 hours in a little economy seat. I was seated next to someone who made it quite evident that my being beside him caused him distress by huffing, puffing, and even pushing me in the ribs every 10 minutes. It was in addition to the fact that I was half-in, half-out of my seat the whole trip. It was painfully awkward, even though I know that many plus-sized persons have experienced it when traveling.

Many people can take advantage of the flexibility of traveling on much-needed vacations once more now that travel has returned on a global scale. But for those who are plus size, that excitement is frequently dampened by the strains and pain that might accompany flying. To assist people to travel as quickly as possible and rediscover the delights of seeing the globe without thinking about size, I've compiled a few tips and methods I've learned over the years as a plus-sized traveler.

Zakynthos

1. If you require one, request a seatbelt extender.

Make sure you ask the flight attendant as you board the aircraft, telling them your seat number as you do so if you feel too uncomfortable to do so while seated. If you are very nervous about asking, you may purchase seatbelt extenders online; however, each airline has different rules and regulations, so be sure to do your homework first.

2. Utilize vacuum-sealed storage containers

SpaceSaver vacuum packing bags have genuinely come in handy when packing clothes for vacation. Using vacuum bags to pack plus-size garments can help you save a significant amount of room in your luggage because plus-size clothing is typically heavier, especially when it comes to jackets and jumpers. You may put as many items as you need in the bags without sacrificing space thanks to the manual pump that decreases the number of garments by up to 80%.

3. Select sized-friendly airlines

Being a size 26 and traveling on long-haul flights in a cramped economy seat is one of the most excruciatingly unpleasant experiences one can have. Unfortunately, you need more money to acquire more roomy seating, flying tends to be a one-size-fits-all affair, and seats are only growing smaller to get more passengers onboard.

However, there are a few choices. The most apparent one is to upgrade to business or premium economy class, but this can be expensive and is only sometimes possible if you're on a tight budget. If you're concerned about the seats, researching the top airlines for general economy seating is brilliant. British Airways has always been my favorite airline because its economy seats can fit people to a UK size 28. Excellent information on the top airlines that cater to passengers of plus sizes can be found on websites like Which? As an alternative, SeatGuru offers a wealth of logistical details regarding aircraft, such as seat widths and legroom dimensions.

4. Keep in mind chafe-relief goods

Nothing is more uncomfortable than being in a hot location and unable to wear skirts or dresses because of the terrible chafing, which happens when thighs rub against one another for an extended amount of time when walking in warm weather and cause hurting sensitive skin. Enter Megababe's Thigh Rescue anti-chafing balm. The little jar fits neatly and conveniently in any purse, making it available for daily touch-ups.

Milos, Greece

5. Journey in comfort

Avoid wearing jeans or other constrictive clothes whenever possible when traveling, especially on lengthy flights. Wearing comfortable attire is essential whether traveling by vehicle, rail, or airplane. Your best chance is to wear light t-shirts with leggings (my favorite pair is the Girlfriend Collective leggings, which are available up to a UK size 30), as well as unitards with an oversized shirt or an H&M sweater. You may use this to keep yourself calm and relaxed when traveling.

6. Use caution when stowing away footwear

I have to be careful while packing shoes because they can take up a lot of room in luggage, especially during winter travels, plus I have wide and huge feet. Choose the sorts of shoes you'll need and how many outfits you can wear them with before you start packing. One pair of Chelsea boots, one pair of Converse trainers (which not only match EVERY outfit but also are wide-fit friendly and comfy), one pair of chunky heeled shoes, and two pairs of flat sandals are the usual items I bring with me when traveling.

7. Advocate for yourself.

It's relatively common for plus-sized persons to remain silent or apologize for their bodies when confronted with a difficult circumstances when traveling. We prefer to keep our mouths shut and do whatever we can to distract people from our size instead of speaking up. It's crucial to remember that we have the same right to travel as everyone else, which necessitates standing up for ourselves if we start to feel uncomfortable.

It's easier said than done, but anything from asking a tour guide to move more slowly during a guided tour to asking a flight attendant if you can switch to an empty seat if you're not comfortable to asking hotel and restaurant staff for more giant chairs without armrests can significantly improve your travel experience. More often than not, you'll discover that people are friendly and willing to make accommodations for you.

8. Have fun.

Nobody wants to pay for insecurities and depression while on vacation, and spending the majority of the time scrutinizing others' bodies may be immensely tiring. When I travel to hot locales and want to visit the beach, I purchase swimsuits that give me a fantastic sense of confidence. Keep in mind that what counts is that you feel confident and at ease, not the size of the swimsuit. Various types and patterns of well-fitting plus-size swimwear and beachwear are available from Be.