15 Expert Tips on Surviving Long Haul Flights

Long haul flights can be a daunting prospect, especially for those who are not used to being confined in a small space for an extended period of time. However, with the right preparation and mindset, it is possible to survive a long haul flight with comfort and ease.

In this article, we will provide 15 expert tips on surviving long haul flights. From choosing a good seat to staying positive, these tips will help you maximize your comfort and minimize the challenges of long haul travel.

Whether you're flying for business or pleasure, these tips will help you arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to go.

1.Choose a good seat.

A seat with more legroom or a window seat can give you more space and help you feel more comfortable during the flight. If you have the option, consider upgrading to a premium seat or booking a seat in an exit row or bulkhead. These seats usually offer more legroom and may be more comfortable for long haul flights.

When booking a seat, consider factors such as the location of the lavatories and galleys, which can be noisy and disruptive. You may also want to check the layout of the plane to determine which seats may be more prone to turbulence or other issues.

2.Dress comfortably.

Wearing loose, comfortable clothing can help you feel more at ease during the flight and allow you to relax more easily. Avoid wearing tight or restrictive clothing that may constrict your movement or cause discomfort.

It's also a good idea to bring a lightweight sweater or jacket for the plane, as the temperature on the plane can fluctuate. Layering your clothing can also make it easier to adjust to different temperatures as you travel. In addition to clothing, you may want to consider bringing comfortable shoes that are easy to slip on and off, as you will be required to remove your shoes during security checks.

3.Stay hydrated.

Dehydration can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms, including headache, fatigue, and dry skin. To stay hydrated during a long haul flight, it's important to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight.

Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as these beverages can contribute to dehydration. Bring a refillable water bottle and ask the flight attendant for water throughout the flight. You can also stay hydrated by eating hydrating foods such as fruits and vegetables. If the air in the cabin is dry, consider using a facial mist or lotion to keep your skin hydrated.

4.Stay active.

Sitting in a confined space for an extended period of time can lead to stiffness, fatigue, and other negative effects on your body. To stay active during a long haul flight, you can try walking around the cabin, stretching your legs, and doing some light exercises. This can help improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and increase your comfort.

Some simple exercises you can do on the plane include leg lifts, ankle rolls, and shoulder rolls. It's also a good idea to get up and walk around the cabin every hour or so to stretch your legs and get your blood flowing.

Be mindful of the other passengers and avoid disturbing them when moving around the cabin.

5.Sleep when you can.

Sleeping during a long haul flight can be challenging, but it is an important way to help you feel rested and refreshed upon arrival. To sleep on a plane, try bringing a neck pillow, eye mask, and earplugs to help you get comfortable.

Consider taking a melatonin supplement to help you fall asleep, but be sure to check with your healthcare provider before using any sleep aids. It may also help to adjust your sleep schedule in the days leading up to your flight, so you are more tired when it is time to sleep on the plane.

If you have trouble sleeping, try doing some light stretching or deep breathing exercises to relax your mind and body. Remember to stay hydrated and avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can disrupt your sleep.

6.Eat wisely.

Choosing healthy, light meals and snacks can help you feel energized and avoid bloating and fatigue during the flight. Avoid salty and sugary foods, which can cause dehydration and make you feel sluggish. Instead, opt for protein-rich foods such as nuts, seeds, and cheese, and bring some fruits and vegetables for snacks.

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, be sure to inform the airline in advance and request special meals if necessary. It's also a good idea to bring some of your own snacks, just in case the options on the plane are not to your liking. Finally, remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water during the flight.

7.Stay entertained.

A long flight can be boring and monotonous, so it's important to have some forms of entertainment to keep yourself occupied.

Some ideas for staying entertained on a long haul flight include: 

1.Reading books, magazines, or newspapers.

2.Watching movies, TV shows, or documentaries.

3.Listening to music or podcasts.

4.Playing games or solving puzzles.

5.Drawing, coloring, or doing other creative activities.

When choosing your entertainment, consider the length of the flight and your personal preferences. It's a good idea to bring a variety of options in case you get tired of one thing. Don't forget to bring headphones or earbuds so you can listen to your entertainment without disturbing others.

8.Stay connected.

When you're on a long flight, it can be reassuring to stay in touch with loved ones or have access to information and entertainment.

Here are some ways to stay connected on a long haul flight:

1.Bring a portable charger and keep your phone, laptop, and other electronic devices charged.

2.Use social media or messaging apps to stay in touch with loved ones.

3.Use your phone or laptop to access the Internet and stay up-to-date with news and events.

4.Consider purchasing in-flight WiFi if it's available on your flight.

5.Bring headphones or earbuds to listen to music or podcasts without disturbing others.

It's important to remember that using electronic devices on a plane can be disruptive to others, so be sure to use them responsibly and follow the rules set by the airline.

9.Keep your skin hydrated.

The dry, recycled air in the cabin can cause your skin to become dry, tight, and prone to irritation.

To keep your skin hydrated, try the following: 

1.Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight.

2.Use a facial mist or bring a small bottle of lotion to spritz on your skin during the flight.

3.Avoid wearing heavy makeup on the plane, as it can clog pores and contribute to dryness.

4.If you have sensitive skin, consider using a moisturizer with SPF to protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays.

10.Protect your ears.

The noise of the plane's engines, as well as the general chatter and activity of the cabin, can be jarring and make it difficult to sleep or relax.

To protect your ears and minimize the noise, try the following: 

1.Bring earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones. These can help to reduce the noise of the plane and create a more peaceful environment.

2.Use the headphones provided by the airline, if available. These may not be as effective as your own headphones, but they can still help to block out some of the noise.

3.Choose a seat away from the lavatories and galleys, as these areas can be particularly noisy.

4.Use the "do not disturb" sign provided by the airline to signal to flight attendants that you do not want to be disturbed.

11.Bring essential items.

Packing essential items can help make your long haul flight more comfortable and stress-free.

Some items to consider bringing include: 

1.Painkillers: Pack some over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, in case you experience any discomfort during the flight. 

2.Hand sanitizer: Use hand sanitizer frequently to reduce the risk of getting sick during the flight. 

3.Lip balm: Dry, recycled air in the cabin can cause your lips to become dry and chapped. Bring a tube of lip balm to keep your lips moisturized. 

4.Headphones or earplugs: Bring headphones or earplugs to block out noise and help you sleep during the flight. 

5.Snacks: Pack some healthy snacks, such as nuts, fruit, or energy bars, to keep you fueled during the flight. 

6.Entertainment: Bring books, magazines, movies, or other forms of entertainment to keep yourself occupied during the flight. 

7.Charging cables: Bring charging cables and a portable charger to keep your electronic devices charged during the flight.

12.Avoid jet lag.

Jet lag is a condition that occurs when your body's natural clock is out of sync with the local time at your destination. Symptoms of jet lag include fatigue, insomnia, difficulty concentrating, and digestive issues.

To avoid jet lag, try the following: 

1.Adjust your sleep schedule in the days leading up to your flight. Try to get plenty of sleep and avoid staying up late or sleeping in. 

2.On the plane, try to sleep when it is nighttime at your destination. Use a neck pillow, eye mask, and earplugs to help you sleep. 

3.Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can disrupt your sleep and make jet lag worse. 

4.Upon arrival, expose yourself to natural light and try to get some physical activity to help reset your body clock.

13.Stay healthy.

A long flight can expose you to a variety of germs, and the close quarters of the cabin can make it easy for illness to spread.

To stay healthy on a long haul flight, try the following: 

1.Wash your hands frequently, especially before eating and after using the lavatory.

2.Avoid touching your face, especially your mouth, nose, and eyes, to prevent germs from entering your body.

3.Pack some hand sanitizer or disinfecting wipes in your carry-on luggage to use during the flight.

4.Consider bringing some immune-boosting supplements or snacks, such as vitamin C or echinacea, to help support your immune system.

14.Plan ahead.

By planning ahead, you can reduce stress and ensure that your trip goes smoothly.

Some things to consider when planning ahead for a long haul flight include: 

1.Arranging for transportation to and from the airport.

2.Booking a hotel or other accommodation in advance.

3.Packing your luggage and making sure you have all the necessary documents and items.

4.Researching your destination and familiarizing yourself with local customs and laws.

5.Making any necessary reservations or bookings for activities or attractions at your destination.

15.Stay positive.

A long flight can be stressful, especially if you're dealing with issues such as jet lag, cramped seating, or delays. Maintaining a positive attitude can help you stay calm and focused, and make the flight more enjoyable.

Here are some ways to stay positive on a long haul flight: 

1.Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.

2.Set small goals for yourself, such as finishing a book or watching a movie.

3.Stay connected with loved ones via social media or messaging apps.

4.Bring small comforts from home, such as a favorite snack or a cozy blanket.

Remember that the flight is only temporary, and you will soon reach your destination.

Conclusion

In conclusion, long haul flights can be challenging, but with the right preparation and mindset, they can also be manageable and even enjoyable. By following these 15 expert tips, you can increase your chances of surviving a long haul flight with comfort and ease.

By taking these steps, you can make your long haul flight more comfortable and help ensure that you arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to go