How To Clear Your Ears After Flying Better (2027)

Gum is great, but warm liquid works faster. Sip hot tea, broth, or even water while pinching your nose and swallowing (combined Toynbee + hydration). The steam from a hot drink also helps loosen mucus.

That plugged, underwater feeling after a flight is miserable. You’ve landed, but your ears haven’t. This common issue—called "airplane ear" or ear barotrauma—happens when pressure changes during takeoff and landing trap air in your Eustachian tubes.

If you have sinus congestion, a few sprays of a saline or oxymetazoline (like Afrin) nasal spray can reduce swelling. Use decongestant sprays sparingly—no more than 2–3 days. Saline is safe to repeat. how to clear your ears after flying

Here’s a clear, helpful, and engaging write-up you can use for a blog, social post, or travel guide.

Safe travels—and happy hearing.

Pinch your nostrils closed with your fingers. Keep your mouth shut. Then gently breathe out through your nose—like you’re trying to pop your ears on purpose. Stop immediately if you feel pain. You should hear a soft click or pop.

A fake yawn won’t work. Open your mouth wide, drop your jaw, and take a deep, audible yawn. The muscle movement pulls the tubes open. If nothing happens, try tilting your head side to side while yawning. Gum is great, but warm liquid works faster

Pinch your nose and swallow at the same time. Swallowing naturally opens the Eustachian tubes, and the pinch adds extra pressure to help them equalize. Repeat 3–5 times.