While all want everyone to stay healthy and protected from COVID-19, many people are not always thrilled to be wearing a mask, especially during long plane rides or trips. The mask can be pretty restricting, especially for younger users.
Luckily, there are many tricks that you can try so you can keep your mask on for long periods of time without going crazy. Let's look at some tips on how to make masks more comfortable as you enjoy the world once again.
Tip 1: It's How You Wear It
While many people opt to go the easy route and buy the cheap blue "doctor's masks," you are better off spending a few more bucks on an adjustable mask if you are going on a long plane trip.
When wearing your mask, you want it snug enough to prevent respiratory droplets from getting behind it and into your mouth. But you should also adjust your mask so that it is not suffocating you or hurting your ears.
For the most comfort, buy a mask made out of cotton, like the affordable option found at this link.
Cotton masks are lighter and more breathable, so they don't weigh down your face.
Tip 2: Protect Your Ears
For most people, the irritation of wearing a mask for a long period of time is due to the rubbing on the ears. After a while, you want to take the mask off or loosen it for some relief.
If this is your issue, the best option is to choose a mask that doesn't attach to your ears.
Like these...
1. Neck Gaiter
These are the masks that people wear around their necks and then pull them up over their faces when in public. These go over your ears, so you don't want to worry about the strings.
Here is an affordable and comfortable option for under $10. (click to view)
2. Headband and Mask Combination
If you enjoy wearing headbands, then you can get the best of both worlds as this face mask connects higher up on your head, so it isn't touching your ears at all. The bands are broad, comfortable, and come in many colors.
Here is the best available option for under $10. (click to view)
3. Baseball Cap and Mask Combination
This a similar option to the headband, except it is perfect for people who love to wear baseball caps on a regular basis. There are many different hats to choose from, and the strings that connect them hover over or in front of your ears.
Here is the best available option for under $13. (click to view)
Tip 3: Keep Your Kid From Going Crazy!
Many people are still afraid to take a long plane ride because they think their kids will go crazy wearing a mask for 3-4 hours. However, by prepping them ahead of time, you can get them mentally prepared for the trip.
First, get your kids excited about all the fun things you will do on the trip, but tell them the family can only go if they all wear masks. Before the trip, have the kids wear the mask as they play at the park or around the house, so they get used to it.
You can even tell them that all the superheroes like Batman, Spiderman, and Iron Man all wear masks because it keeps them protected. And it's cool!
Just like you, your kids should also wear a cotton mask as it is the most breathable, and after a while, they will forget they have it on.
Things are starting to look up in the year 2021 as we have vaccines, and numbers are falling. How are you doing? Are you thinking about planning a trip? Have you already gone?
Share your stories in the comments!