Traveling halfway across the world for eight hours or more in a stuffy aircraft, with you being stuck in a cramped seat, might sound like the worst nightmare, but flying long-haul can also be incredibly exciting. With a little preparation, you can relieve some of the discomforts and arm yourself with the things that will help to you to feel relaxed, refreshed and ready to kick-off your most-awaited holiday when you reach your destination. If you want to get the latest updates on your flight status like changes to arrival or departure times, cancellations or even airport information, you can do flight tracking. You’ll also be aware of the current position of the plane on the map.
If you’re traveling soon, don’t worry we’ve got you covered. Here are some tips to survive your long-haul flight more bearable:
RESERVE A GOOD SEAT
One of the essential tips to be incorporated when flying for long hours is to think ahead and choose a good seat. If you want more leg room, it is suggested that you choose those on exit rows. If you plan to sleep for most of the flight, the best seat for you is usually next to a window so you can have something to lean against. You also don’t have to worry about your seatmates waking you if they’ll be using the bathroom. If you want to move around the plane, then opt for an aisle seat so it’ll be easier for you to get up and stretch your legs. Lastly, if you want to avoid crying children, stay away from the front part of the plane as this area is often where you’ll find special provision for babies.
FIND COMFORTABLE CLOTHES TO WEAR ON LONG FLIGHTS
The temperature on a plane varies per person. You might be freezing while others on a few rows away from you find it too warm. You need to be prepared and think ahead of the outfit that will make you feel happy and at ease while onboard for eight hours or more. It should be given that you need to wear comfortable clothes and pack some layers or sweaters as well just in case you need it since temperature changes as well as you fly. In case of emergencies, closed shoes are suggested than flip flops because your feet do dwell at high altitudes.
DON’T PACK TOO MUCH IN YOUR CABIN LUGGAGE
Yes, a few extras definitely help, but as much as possible, try to limit things to a minimum. It’s far easier to travel with just the right size of a suitcase. You can move freely around the boarding area and it won’t be difficult for you to stuff it into the overhead lockers as well. It is ideal to take one cabin bag and a smaller handbag to secure your essential belongings within reach.
BRING YOUR GO-TO GEAR
Remember, you’ll be on board the plane for a whole day or night so it is worth bringing some these in-flight essentials that can provide comfort to your body and brain. You need to gear up. You can bring neck pillows, eye masks, earplugs or noise-canceling headphones so you won’t be bothered by those crying children, engine noise and won’t even experience a major crick on your neck.
TAKE YOUR OWN SNACKS
You’re right, you get fed on long-haul flights but it may not necessarily meet your expectations on to when it will be served or what will they offer since you’re traveling through time zones. To prevent yourself from being hungry, or just in case you don’t like the food being offered on the plane, it is suggested to bring with you some snacks like cereal bars, nuts or dried fruits in your carry-on luggage. It would be the worst feeling if you feel uncomfortable and hungry at the same time. And we don’t want that to happen.
STAY HYDRATED
According to some experts, it is vital to drink approximately 8 ounces per hour to avoid complaining about feeling jet-lagged because, in fact, there are actually experiencing dehydration. They are not drinking enough water and breathing dry recycled air for long hours. To solve this problem, you can bring a tumbler or bottle with you so you can store any water the cabin crew brings around. Also, avoid too much tea, coffee and alcohol since it may increase dehydration in the long run.
GET UP AND MOVE AROUND
In order to avoid the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis, stretching your legs would be a great help to keep the proper circulation flowing into it. You can do some gentle exercise on your seat and get up every two hours. You can also walk apart from up and down the aisles or just move around the plane once in a while, since it is a more conducive way to get some healthy rest, instead of just taking in a sleeping pill.
MAKE NEW FRIENDS
Traveling is a great opportunity to meet interesting people along the way to your desired destination. Like on a flight, each person surely has their own story and reason for traveling. One of the best ways to survive a long-haul flight is to start a conversation with your seatmate. You could end up knowing their story or even become your new travel companion. Always remember to be nice and pleasant to everyone.
Following these few simple guidelines can help yourself to feel a whole lot better if you’re traveling long-haul.
