The nuisance of long-haul travel can range from mildly inconvenient issues such as a seatmate with loud music to severe deep-vein thrombosis which is not a joke. If the journey was poorly planned, you can be in for one of your worst days during the trip and a few days afterwards. Fortunately, you do not have to go through a painful journey to reach your destination while there are things you can do to make your trip comfortable.
A long light can take between 10 hours to 24 hours. Even with quality seats, headrests, entertainment and amazing inflight menu choices, you need to learn ways to keep yourself comfortable throughout the journey. If you don’t want your next long flight to turn out to be a nightmare, here are top tips to get through the journey comfortably.
Book your tickets early
When you book your ticket early, you are in a better position to get a good seat but if you are a latecomer, then you will have to deal with what is available. It is as simple as booking early and bargaining for your favourite seat. On the same note, if you don’t have a favourite seat, there are two options you can never go wrong with. The front ones should be your priority because they have more space for your legs. But if they are already taken, then get a seat in the back. Although it will be noisier, you have higher chances of ending with one or more empty seats next to you. Remember with long flights, an extra space goes a long way.
Avoid overpacking the carry-on
It is obvious you will need more for a long flight than you would with a short one but this should not be the excuse to bring a bulky carry on full of items you won’t even use. When packing your carry on, only pack what you are sure you will actually use during the trip. The last thing you need in a long flight is some bulky luggage which could have otherwise been kept somewhere else. You need to have all the space you need to rest and relax for the many hours you will be spending on that plane.
Wear comfortable clothes
The biggest mistake you can ever make when going for a long flight is to dress tight-fitting outfits in the name of style and fashion. If there is a time to forgo style for your comfort, it is now. Wearing tight binding clothes will make it hard for you to get comfortable or even sleep during your journey. Instead, consider wearing comfortable clothes such as yoga pants and a long-sleeved top. A long cardigan is also great because it can double up as a blanket if you need more warmth. Remember to wear socks too. Long hours on a flight can lead to pressure and swelling. To protect your feet, make sure you slip on a warm pair of socks.
Stay hydrated
Most travellers assume because they are just resting, then their bodies will not be dehydrated as it could have been the case if they were doing some physical exercises resulting in sweating. But the truth is, you can really get dehydrated on a long flight due to the dry recycled cabin air. Even if you are indulging in other fluids such as fruit juices, ensure you also drink lots of water to keep your body well hydration. Of course, you know the dangers of dealing with dehydration and for sure, this is not something you want to deal with during a long flight. Please take care of yourself.
Consider noise-cancelling headphones
Good quality of some noise-cancelling headphones can be a lifesaver when it comes to making a long-haul flight bearable. Noise-cancelling headphones help to cut out the noise on the plane from the engine whine, children’s tantrums to all sorts of disturbing sounds so that you can rest peacefully and catch some sleep.
Entertainment
While there are assorted in-flight entertainment options available, don’t be surprised if you get on the plane only to realize what’s available is not appealing to you at all. How could it feel knowing you have 10 hours or even more to go? This can be quiet frustrating. That’s why it is better you get equipped with your entertainment options so that if what’s available on the airline’s entertainment system doesn’t work for you, you are still sorted out. Thus, make sure you have loaded your smartphone or tablet with relevant content enough to entertain you throughout your journey. If you are into reading novels, journals or magazines, then pack a few of your favourite in the carry-on bag.
Get a neck pillow and a sleep mask
Catching some sleep during a long flight can be harder because you are used to sleeping on your bed back at home. But since you aren’t at home, you must be smart and look for ways to get enough rest. A neck pillow is a staple carry-on item for such long journeys. It can help to support your head as you sleep and protect it from aches days after your trip. You will also need a good sleep mask to block out light that may hinder you from getting some good sleep. These items may look silly but those people who have been in long flights will attest to how important they are.
Bring a travel blanket
There is a good reason why travel blankets exist. It doesn’t have to be too think. Just enough to keep you warm throughout the journey including when the plane’s air conditioning is going full blast. The good thing is that they are even sold at the airport. So if you don’t have one already, then you can get it before take-off.
Exercise
If you want to feel great and energetic after the long journey, then avoid staying on your seat all the time. When not sleeping, get up at least after every hour and take a walk. This will get your circulation going and lessen your chances of getting deep vein thrombosis. Plus don’t forget to do some stretches, your body will greatly appreciate.
Pack extra snacks
Even on long-haul flights, airline food is not usually in plenty. You need to stay well-nourished during a long flight. It isn’t amusing to deal with hunger when you know you have a long day or more to spend on the flight. But don’t overdo it. Just enough to keep you full on top of the food that will be served in the flight.
The takeaway
When you are well organized, a long flight will be a lot more convenient than you had imagined. Just don’t make the trip look so dull. Entertain yourself, exercise, stay hydrated and most importantly get enough rest.
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