Spending several hours in an airplane can seem like a nightmare, but with some forward planning and comfort strategies, long-distance travel can be transformed into a pleasant experience. Follow these 12 survival tips and strategies to arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to start your vacation.
Tips to overcome long flights
Find Comfortable Clothes to Wear on Long Flights
Comfort is Key: Choose an outfit that prioritizes comfort over style. Opt for loose layers that you can easily adjust according to the temperature. Aircraft cabins are often chilly due to strong air conditioning, so wearing multiple layers helps you regulate your body temperature.
Additional Tips:
- Opt for Breathable Fabrics: Choose natural fibers like cotton or moisture-wicking materials to stay comfortable.
- Wear Compression Socks: These can help with circulation and reduce the risk of swelling in your legs.
- Bring a Travel Pillow and Blanket: These can enhance comfort and help you rest more effectively.
Reserve a Good Seat
- Strategic Seating: Selecting the right seat can significantly impact your comfort on a long flight. Here’s how to make the best choice:
- Exit Rows: These seats usually offer extra legroom.
- Avoid Seats Near the Galley or Lavatories: These areas can be noisy and disruptive.
- Aisle Seats: Ideal for those who prefer to stretch their legs or need frequent access to the restroom.
- Additional Tip: Use seat selection tools and read reviews to find the best seats available on your flight.
Stay Hydrated
Combat Dry Air: The dry air in aircraft cabins can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the flight and limit caffeine and alcohol intake, which can exacerbate dehydration.
Hydration Tips:
- Bring a Reusable Water Bottle: Purchase it after security and fill it up before boarding.
- Use Moisturizers: Apply hand cream and lip balm to prevent dryness.
- Eye Care: If you experience dry eyes, pack eye drops for relief.
- Herbal teas like chamomile can be soothing and help with relaxation.
Relax and Unwind
Embrace the Opportunity: Long flights provide a rare chance to disconnect from your daily routine. Use this time to relax, read a book, watch movies, or get excited about your destination by exploring travel guides.
Additional Tips:
- Meditation and Breathing Exercises: Use meditation apps or breathing techniques to calm your mind and reduce stress. Apps like Headspace or Calm offer guided sessions that can be helpful.
- Reading Material: Bring a good book or an e-reader loaded with your favourite titles. This can be a great way to pass the time and escape into a different world.
Choose a Good Airline
Research and Reviews: Not all airlines are created equal. Research and read reviews to find a carrier that offers the best comfort and service for long-haul flights.
Compare amenities such as seat pitch, in-flight entertainment, and meal options before booking.
Load Up All Your Devices
Entertainment Essentials: Make sure your devices are fully charged and loaded with entertainment before boarding. Download movies, TV shows, music, and games to keep yourself occupied.
Portable Chargers: Bring a power bank to keep your devices charged throughout the flight.
Offline Content: Download necessary apps and documents before the flight to avoid connectivity issues.
Noise-Canceling Headphones: These can enhance your viewing experience by blocking out ambient noise.
Health Tips
Stay Active: Regular movement is crucial during long flights to maintain circulation and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Walk the Aisle: Stretch your legs and walk around periodically.
Perform In-Seat Exercises: Simple exercises like ankle circles and leg lifts can improve blood flow.
Invest in Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Noise Reduction: High-quality noise-canceling headphones can make a significant difference in your comfort level by blocking out engine noise and passenger chatter.
If noise-canceling headphones are out of reach, consider using earplugs to reduce ambient noise.
Get Productive
Work on the Go: If you have work to catch up on, a long flight can be an ideal time to tackle it. Bring necessary documents and devices to stay productive.
Organize Your Tasks: Create a to-do list to help you stay focused and manage your time effectively.
Use Offline Tools: Make sure your productivity tools are available offline to avoid any connectivity issues.
Pack Lots of Activities for Your Kids
- Family Travel: Keeping children entertained during a long flight is essential for a smooth journey. Pack a variety of activities to keep them engaged.
- Electronics: Load tablets with games, shows, and movies.
- Arts and Crafts: Bring coloring books, stickers, and small craft kits.
- Snacks: Pack a selection of their favorite snacks to keep them satisfied.
- Travel Games: Compact games and puzzles can keep them occupied for hours.
Manage Jet Lag
Adjust Your Schedule: Jet lag can impact your first few days at your destination. Prepare by gradually adjusting your sleep schedule before departure.
Set Your Watch to Destination Time: This can help you mentally prepare for the new time zone.
Stay Active: Light exercise upon arrival can help reset your internal clock.
Get Sunlight Exposure: Natural light can help adjust your internal clock to the new time zone.
Prepare for Airport Transit
Smooth Connections: Long-haul flights often include connecting flights. Ensure a seamless experience with airssist’s Meet and Greet service, which provides personalized assistance for a smooth airport experience from arrival to departure.
If you have access to a VIP Terminal, take advantage of the exclusive amenities and expedited services.
Reading and Mental Stimulation:
Bring a Variety of Books: Choose genres that will keep you engaged and entertained. E-readers are also a great option for carrying multiple books without extra weight.
Puzzle Books: Crosswords, Sudoku, or brain teasers can help pass the time and keep your mind active.
Meditating and Relaxation:
Meditation Apps: Use apps like Calm or Insight Timer to practice mindfulness and meditation. These can help reduce stress and improve your overall comfort.
Breathing Techniques: Simple deep breathing exercises can help you relax and manage any anxiety associated with flying.
Sleep Aids:
Consider Sleep-Inducing Drinks: Herbal teas like chamomile or valerian root can help you relax and promote better sleep.
Sleep Masks and Earplugs: These can block out light and noise, making it easier to fall asleep and stay rested during the flight.
Hygiene and Freshening Up:
Travel-Size Toiletries: Pack items like face wipes, hand sanitizer, and deodorant to freshen up during the flight.
Change of Clothes: Bring a spare shirt or top to change into if you want to feel refreshed.
Long flights don’t have to be a dreaded part of your travel experience. With the right preparation and strategies, you can make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable. Follow these tips to arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to embark on your adventure.
For a seamless airport experience, including arrival, departure, and transit, consider using airssist’s Meet and Greet service. Contact us to learn more about how we can enhance your travel experience.