Unless you’re lucky enough to be in first class, long-haul flights are often an unenjoyable experience. You’re stuck in an upright angle, the cabin is freezing, and the clock just doesn’t seem to be moving. Fortunately, there are measures to take to help make this awful experience, well… a little less awful. These are my top tips for surviving a long-haul flight!
1. Dress in layers
Airplanes can either be really warm, or really cold. That’s it, there’s no middle ground. Plan ahead for either scenario by dressing in multiple light layers. Tee shirts, sweatshirts, and scarves are often the perfect combination and give you flexibility even when things change. Sport a full zip hoodie, rather than a pullover so you can easily take it on and off at your seat.
2. Headphones
A necessity not to be forgotten! In addition to bluetooth headphones for your phone or laptop, don’t forget an “old school” pair that have a jack. You’ll need them to plug in to watch TV or movies on the plane. Plus, when your rechargeable headphones need time to juice up, you’ll never be without entertainment!
3. BYO sleep aids
Whatever you may use to help you sleep, it’s imperative to have enough packed! I typically bring ZzQuil or NyQuil to take right before the flight to help me sleep through as much of the redeye as possible! Just be sure they are the capsules, rather than liquid so you can get them through security.
4. Pack some sleep gear
Whether it’s a pillow, blanket, mask, or ear plugs- having your own will be a lifesaver. Most major airlines will provide the basics on long-haul flights, but don’t expect it from all (especially budget airlines). Always err on the side of caution and pack your own gear. I use this neck pillow so I can roll it up tightly into my bag, and use a light scarf as a blanket so I can wear it instead of having it take up room in my bag.
5. Download Netflix shows
You can never have enough content downloaded! On the Netflix app on your phone or tablet, you can download shows and movies so you can watch offline or in the air. Make a special effort to do so when you are at home or on reliable wifi. The free airport wifi is often not strong enough to do enough before your flight, and you don’t want to be without things to watch!
6. Pack blue light filtering glasses
Since you’ve got a lot of time to kill and a lot of content to watch, your eyes are going to take a beating. Snag a cheap pair of blue light filtering glasses ahead of your flight to help the strain on your eyes. I use this pair for traveling, and they work like a charm. Wearing them in my everyday life has also helped cut down on migraines and have helped me fall asleep easier!
7. Have podcasts and albums ready
In addition to downloading TV shows and movies, it’s equally important to have audible content for when you want to rest. Download a series of a new podcast or album to entertain you while you take a break from screens. I personally like to download comedy albums to listen to while I sit back and rest my eyes. Remember, like Netflix, you’ll want to download these ahead of time on reliable wifi!
8. Portable chargers
With all this content you have to entertain yourself for hours, you’ll need a battery that can keep up. Most major airlines will have USB plugs or outlets in the seats, but it is best not to rely on them. Trust me, the one time you’ll need them, they won’t work. Charge up a portable pack (or two) ahead of time to be on the safe side, or to charge up multiple devices at once.
9. BYO pain killers
Whether it’s the cabin pressure, the person kicking your seat, or a toddler screaming in the cabin, you never want to be caught without pain killers. The flight attendants always have basics on hand, but they may not always have what you need. Personally, I’m prone to migraines and when I need an Excedrin, I need it now. Always make sure you keep a small amount of whatever you need on hand!
10. Wear compression socks
A relatively new must-have for me, but I now make sure I have these on every long-haul flight I take. Not only do they prevent DVT (which is very real), but they prevent swelling in your legs and feet. Therefore, you’ll experience less cramps and fatigue in the air and you will be able to cruise right off the plane when you land.
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