Advice for Long Flights

Taking a long flight can feel exciting but also tiring. Whether you’re flying for work, fun, or to visit family, sitting on a plane for many hours can be tough. But with a little planning, you can make the trip much easier and even enjoy it. Here are some simple tips to help you have a better long flight, plus answers to common questions.

Pre-Flight Preparation

Get Your Body Ready

Try to rest well the day before you fly. Light exercise like walking or stretching can help your body feel better during the flight. Don’t stay up too late—being too tired can make jet lag worse and ruin the start of your trip.

Pack the Right Things

In your carry-on bag, bring things that will keep you comfortable and busy. Pack a neck pillow, eye mask, earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, and a small blanket. Take a clean set of clothes, some toiletries like a toothbrush and lotion, lip balm, and any medicine you need. Also, don’t forget your phone chargers and a power bank to keep your devices charged.

Wear Comfortable Clothes

Dress in loose, soft clothes and comfy shoes. Plan to wear layers, since planes can get hot or cold. Compression socks are a good idea too—they help your blood flow and keep your legs from swelling.

Charge Everything Before You Go

Make sure all your phones and gadgets are fully charged before you leave home. Take your chargers and a power bank with you, just in case you can’t find a place to plug in.

Onboard Comfort and Health

Stay Hydrated

Airplane air is notoriously dry. Drink plenty of water throughout your flight and avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you further. Bringing your own refillable water bottle is both eco-friendly and economical.

Eat Wisely

Opt for lighter, easily digestible meals and snacks. Avoid heavy, fatty, or carb-rich foods that can make you feel sluggish. Bringing your own healthy snacks can help you avoid relying on in-flight meals that may not suit your tastes or dietary needs.

Move Around Often

Sitting for a long time can cause blood clots in your legs, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). To help prevent this, try to stand up and walk around the plane every few hours. You can also stretch your legs and move your feet while sitting.

Try to Sleep at the Right Time

If it’s nighttime at the place you’re flying to, try to sleep during the flight. Use things like an eye mask, earplugs, and a neck pillow to help you relax. If you can’t sleep, don’t stress—just rest and sleep more when you land.

Keep Your Skin and Eyes Comfortable

The air on planes is very dry and can make your skin, lips, and eyes feel uncomfortable. Use moisturizer and lip balm often. If you wear contact lenses, it might be better to switch to glasses during the flight. Or bring contact lens solution and a case if you want to take them out.

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Entertainment and Mental Wellbeing

Bring Your Own Entertainment

Consider downloading apps like Audible for audiobooks, Kindle for reading, or meditation apps like Calm for relaxation. These can help you pass the time and reduce stress during the flight. If you’re watching movies, use the in-flight entertainment to catch up on films or shows you’ve missed. Bring headphones that block noise for a more immersive experience.

Stay Productive or Creative

Use your time in the air to catch up on work, journal, sketch, or plan your trip. Being productive can make the flight feel shorter and more rewarding.

Stay Calm and Reduce Stress

Long flights can make some people feel nervous or stressed, especially if you don’t fly often. Try deep breathing, meditation, or simple relaxation exercises to stay calm. If flying makes you very anxious, talk to your doctor before the trip. They might suggest ways to relax or give you medicine to help.

Choosing the Best Seat

Pick a Seat That Suits You

If you want to sleep during the flight, a window seat is a good choice because you can lean against the wall. If you like to get up often to stretch or use the bathroom, pick an aisle seat. Want more legroom? Seats near the emergency exit usually have extra space, but you might have to put your bag somewhere else, and these seats sometimes cost more.

Consider Upgrading

For flights over 10 hours, upgrading to premium economy or business class can significantly improve your comfort. If you have frequent flyer miles, consider using them for an upgrade. Check-in early for the best chance of securing a better seat at a lower price.

Jet Lag and Time Zone Management

Adjust Your Schedule Before You Fly

A few days before departure, gradually shift your sleep and meal times toward your destination’s time zone. This can help minimize jet lag.

Set Your Watch to Destination Time

Once you board the plane, set your watch or phone to the local time at your destination. This mental adjustment can help you start acclimating before you land.

Match Your Schedule to Your Destination

Try to eat and sleep based on the time zone of where you’re going, even during the flight. After you arrive, spend some time outside in natural light to help your body adjust.

After You Land

Take It Slow

Don’t plan anything important right after you land. Give yourself at least one full day to rest and get used to the new time zone.

Move Around and Drink Water

Go for a walk during the day to help your body adjust. Keep drinking water and eat healthy, light meals to feel better faster.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How can I avoid jet lag?

A: Start adjusting your sleep schedule before the trip. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and try to follow your destination’s time zone during the flight. Spend time in daylight once you arrive.

Q: What’s the best seat for a long flight?

A: It depends on what you like. Window seats are better for sleep, aisle seats make it easier to move around, and emergency exit rows give you more legroom. You can also pay for an upgrade if you want extra comfort.

Q: How often should I move during the flight?

A: Try to get up and walk every 2 hours. If you can’t, stretch your legs, roll your ankles, and move your feet while sitting.

Q: What should I pack in my carry-on bag?

A: Bring a neck pillow, eye mask, earplugs or headphones, travel blanket, fresh clothes, toiletries, lotion, lip balm, chargers, and any medicine you need.

Q: How can I stay hydrated?

A: Drink lots of water. Avoid coffee and alcohol. Bring a refillable water bottle and fill it after you go through security.

Q: Can I take off my shoes during the flight?

A: Yes, it’s okay to take off your shoes, but keep your socks on to stay clean and warm. Don’t walk around the plane barefoot.

Q: How do I deal with stress or anxiety while flying?

A: Try deep breathing, meditation, or listening to calming music. Keep yourself busy with a book or entertainment. If you get very anxious, talk to your doctor before the trip.

Q: What if I have a connecting flight?

A: Try to book at least a 2-hour gap between flights to avoid stress. Check with your airline to see if you need to collect and recheck your bags.

Q: How can I make my seat more comfortable?

A: Use a neck pillow, blanket, and eye mask. Wear layers and consider compression socks. If possible, upgrade to a better seat with more space.

Q: What can I do for fun on a long flight?

A: Download movies, shows, music, or audiobooks before the flight. Bring a book, puzzles, or a journal. You can also plan your trip or get some work done.

Final Thoughts

Long flights don’t have to be hard. With the right planning and a good attitude, you can stay comfortable and even enjoy the journey. These easy tips and answers will help you arrive feeling fresh and ready for your trip. Safe travels! ✈️🌍