Here's how to relieve ear pain when flying – according to an expert

There are plenty of things that are utterly rubbish about travelling – price of your ticket, airport queues, ridiculous extra charges for bags that are a centimetre too big. 

But nothing – nothing! – is as low-key irritating as not being able to pop your ears on the plane. What’s extra annoying is it happens almost every time – and sometimes it lasts until you’re actually off the plane. Truly annoying stuff.

You’re probably aware of some of the common ways of getting rid of the pressure – putting in ear plugs, or holding your nose and blowing, for example. But it looks like there might actually have been a better option all along.

That’s according to one of Etihad’s “flying nannies”, anyway.  Speaking to Conde Nast Traveller, Denya Glover revealed that there’s a much better way to clear your poor, bunged up ears.

“Most parents think that ear plugs will solve the problem, but I recommend something else,” she continues. “Ask the flight attendant for some warm water (not too hot, not too cold), a tissue, and a cup.”

“Place the wet tissue in the cup and then over the ear. The steam will relieve the pressure and soothe the pain. Happy children, happy flight!”. 

It might not be the most attractive option – you’re probably not going to get that mile-high meet-cute of your dreams if you’re sat with a bit of wet tissue over your ear. But you will feel better – so swings and roundabouts, we guess. 

Image: Unsplash