Sensate Review for Flying: The Ultimate Solution for Nervous Flyers

Megan is a Senior Editor, SEO for SmarterTravel Media.

Megan started with SmarterTravel Media’s Airfarewatchdog way back in 2008, moved over to FamilyVacationCritic, and finally SmarterTravel in 2021. Originally from Massachusetts, she has lived in Nova Scotia, London, and New York City. She has spent nearly every summer (or at least part of it) on Prince Edward Island. She lives in Connecticut with her husband, two young children, and their dog, Indiana Bones (Indy).

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From pills to mantras, people who fear flying but love to travel have tried everything and are usually willing to try anything that helps make their flying experience easier. Valium and sleeping pills have been popular for many who don’t like flying, but now there is a new, pill-free option out there- the Sensate Relaxation Device.

While it might seem hard to believe that a person who makes travel her livelihood is a nervous flier, it’s true- I am a very nervous flier. Through the years, I’ve learned to manage my fear and am much better about it now than I was, however, I still am always looking for new ways to curb my anxiety.

Recently, I flew to London and decided to give the Sensate a try.

What is Sensate?

Sensate relaxation device and phone showing corresponding app — Amazon

First, let’s get into the basics of the Sensate.

Sensate is a ”sensory device that uses vibrations and sound to lower your stress.”
It fits in the palm of your hand and weighs next to nothing, so you don’t feel any added weight to your neck.
It uses infrasonic resonance to relax your vagus nerve.
It has a “comforting hum” to “engage your ancient instincts of safety and relaxation.”
Listen to relaxing soundscapes in the Sensate app while using it for the ultimate relaxation experience.

How Do You Use a Sensate?

I set up my Sensate at home before heading to the airport so I wouldn’t have to worry about figuring out how to use it. I used it once at home to make sure I knew what settings I preferred. With Sensate Plus, you can choose from various programs with various lengths.

I hate taking off, so I wanted to make sure I used it as soon as I could, which was when everyone was in their seats, and we were preparing for take off. I put the Sensate around my neck and tightened it to my desired length. I chose the H20hm 20-minute session to help me relax for my flight, with a lower intensity vibration. I turned on the device, pressed start session on the app, and let it do its magic.

What does Sensate Feel Like?

The Sensate vibrates, and, as I mentioned before, you can choose the intensity of the vibrations. While experimenting with it before my flight, I decided I preferred less intense vibrations. Honestly, it simply feels like a phone vibrating at different intervals and lengths of time. It isn’t distracting by any means, and after a while, you don’t even notice the vibrations.

Does Sensate Help Calm You During Flying?

Yes. I was probably the calmest I have ever been without the assistance of any sort of pill.

I usually gripped the armrests at take-off, but while wearing Sensate, I continued to read my book without giving take-off a second thought. I can’t say I had a tremendous 3-hour nap once the food was served and the lights were dimmed on the red-eye flight, but I did snooze a bit, which is more than usual for me.

Is Sensate Worth It?

People using Sensate Relaxation Device — Amazon

I have to admit I was skeptical but open to trying whatever I could to help ease my anxiety. However, I don’t think I will fly again without my Sensate. I use it during the day as well, just to help regulate stress. I haven’t tried it for sleeping yet, but as a mother of a toddler and a pre-schooler with a full-time job, falling asleep is not that hard these days.

If you hate to fly, and don’t want to go the pill route, I highly recommend getting yourself a Sensate to help ease your fears the next time you travel.

Pros and Cons of a Sensate

Pros	Cons
Easy to use Lightweight Calms you without drug	Expensive

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