Airports can be stressful, but the real challenge starts when you’re on your way to your destination. Long-haul flights are a particular topic of concern because they often lead to uncomfortable and unsafe conditions for travelers. Here are some tips that will help make the experience more comfortable so you can enjoy yourself!
Pack light. The lighter your luggage, the easier it will be to move through security and onto the plane. Extra weight slows down boarding time (and can cause delays) so keep it as low as you possibly can while still packing all your essentials.
Make sure you have a good pair of travel shoes or sneakers that are comfy. This is especially important for long flights! If you’re going to be on your feet for hours, it’s best that they’re covered in supportive and comfortable material.
Bring a scarf or blanket with you if possible. Airplanes are often very cold inside so having something warm will help keep you cozy while also preventing chills due to drafts.
Bring a neck pillow or lumbar support if you can afford it. Your back and your posture will thank you for using these items as they help prevent serious aches, pains, and discomfort from setting in during long journeys. They’re especially important when traveling through multiple time zones!
Try to eat light and healthy foods. Heavy or greasy meals are not only hard for your body to process, but they can also make you feel sleepy and lethargic which is exactly what you don’t want when on a long flight!
Bring water with you if possible. It’s easy to get dehydrated so having a bottle on hand is the best way to prevent that from happening.
Bring a book, tablet, or iPad with you if possible. Long periods of boredom can be shortened by having something interesting and engaging available for reading/watching!
Speak up! If your seat doesn’t recline, ask someone in front of you if they can recline their seat. If they’re able to do so, ask them if you can fold down the tray table for extra legroom or a more comfortable position.
Use your call button! Airplanes are full of people who may not share an interest in what’s going on around them. Asking someone else to help open up a window shade or close one, is a great way to get something you want without having to be rude about it.
Keep your headphones on! If you don’t want the noise of others disturbing you, use them as much as possible and keep yourself entertained (or focused) with what’s playing through them.
When it comes to long-distance flights, there are a number of factors that can make the journey uncomfortable and unsafe. If you’re traveling in economy class, keep your body hydrated by drinking plenty of water before takeoff as well as during the flight. Stay awake for at least five hours after landing so that your jet lag will be reduced or eliminated altogether. Remember to bring comfortable clothes with you and try not to overeat on plane food if possible! These tips should help make the experience more enjoyable for all travelers who want to enjoy themselves when they fly long distances.
