How To Survive A Long Haul Flight Without Losing Your Mind

A long-haul flight can be a real nightmare for many travelers, especially those flying economy. Even I, who've been fortunate enough to travel extensively, dread the thought of a flight that lasts more than 5 hours. But there are ways to make the experience a bit more bearable. Here are some tips and tricks that have helped me survive a long haul flight.

Choose the right seat

When flying long distances, choosing the right seat is crucial. Even if it means paying extra, I think it's worth it. Consider your travel style when picking a seat. Aisle seats are ideal if you need frequent bathroom breaks. If you prefer uninterrupted sleep, a window seat is best. Personally, I love exit-row seats. They offer extra legroom, which is essential for a comfortable long flight. While they can be expensive, I think the assured comfort is worth it.

Adjust your body clock

To make your long-haul flight more comfortable, try adjusting your sleep schedule to match the time zone of your destination a few days before you travel. This means going to bed earlier or sleeping later than usual to reset your body clock. Airlines often adjust their cabin lights and meal times to mimic the destination's time zone. This can help your body adapt more easily to local time, leaving you feeling fresh.

Stay hydrated

A plane cabin can get very dry, with humidity levels being significantly lower than what we're comfortable with indoors. This can lead to dehydration, especially if you're flying long-haul. The best way to combat this is by drinking plenty of water. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as it can worsen dehydration. Bring your own reusable water bottle to the airport and fill it up after security. If you run out of water mid-flight, ask the flight attendants to refill your bottle.

Bring your own food

Let's be honest. Airline food is often just enough to avoid starvation, but not enough to feel full and satisfied. As an active person, I've always struggled with this. To avoid feeling hungry during flights, I carry my own snacks. This has made a huge difference in how I feel after landing. Nothing is worse than feeling bloated and uncomfortable after a flight due to unhealthy airplane food. By bringing healthy snacks, you can ensure to stay well-nourished and avoid feeling hangry.

Back up on entertainment

Some airplanes may offer an in-flight entertainment system, but they can be unreliable, costly, or simply not very good. You can't always predict what you'll find on a flight. To avoid disappointment, rely on your own devices for entertainment. Download your favorite movies and TV shows on Netflix or your choice of streaming service before you travel. This way, you'll have something to watch even if the airplane's entertainment options are bad or unavailable.

Carry noise-canceling headphones

Noise-canceling headphones are a must-have to survive long-haul flights. They're like magic earplugs that block out most of the airplane's noise, making ultra-long-haul travel much more peaceful. I used to think they were overrated, but they've been a total game-changer for me. With headphones, I can finally sleep, enjoy my movies, or listen to music without being disturbed by the constant chatter and noise. They're a great way to create your own private space on a crowded flight.

Dress comfy

Comfort is paramount when flying. While the idea of dressing up for a potential free upgrade from economy class to business class might be appealing, it's mostly a fantasy. Avoid restrictive clothing. Instead, opt for casual clothing that's perfect for a long day indoors. Remember, airplanes can get chilly, especially if you're near an exit row. Layering is essential for staying comfortable throughout the flight. Don't let comfort compromise your style—you can still look good while feeling great.

Bring an eye mask

I used to think wearing eye masks during long flights was silly, but now I'm a total convert. They're a lifesaver for fighting jet lag. While some airlines give them out during long-haul routes, I prefer to bring my own eye mask. The softer, the better. It's honestly the best way to get some serious shut-eye. And if you're worried about missing meals, there are eye masks with a built-in wake-up call that flight attendants can use to alert you when the food is being served.

Find the right neck pillow

A good travel pillow can significantly impact the comfort and quality of international flights. While there are numerous options available, ranging from inflatable to novelty pillows, it's crucial to select one that suits your specific needs. Poorly chosen neck pillows can lead to discomfort, neck pain, and even headaches, potentially ruining your entire trip. To ensure a restful journey, invest time in finding a pillow that provides adequate support, is comfortable to wear, and easily fits into your carry-on luggage.

Get as much sleep as possible

Prioritize sleep. Get as much rest as possible. If you're struggling, consider taking sleeping pills. If you find yourself in France, you might want to check with a local pharmacist. They can recommend a suitable sleeping pill that's available without a prescription. Also always make sure to not hide your seat belt under a blanket when sleeping because in case there's turbulence, the flight attendants may wake you up to ensure you're being safe.