Long haul flights are not fun! There’s no sugar coating that fact. Most people cannot afford the hefty price tag that comes with flying first class or business class overseas. But there are some tried and tested tips to make flying long distance in coach easier to handle and also help you get right into the swing of things when you land.
Eat Light
You don’t have to eat like a rabbit, but try to avoid anything heavy such as greasy foods or foods that are loaded with carbs or sugar before you board the plane. Planes make most people bloat due to the air pressure, and being on one for 12 or more hours can make you super bloated. And being bloated can make your body feel like it’s dragging. Greasy foods or those with a lot of carbs can just add to the bloating, so try to eat a little healthier on your day of travel.
Drink Water
I know you’ve probably heard this plenty of times but you really do need to drink plenty of water during the flight. With longer flights, they will do more than just one round of beverage service. If they come by to offer something to drink, take advantage of it and drink some water. Planes are extremely dehydrating and being on one for longer flights can leave you feeling tired and groggy. Keeping yourself hydrated can definitely help you beat jet lag. Does it mean more trips to those tiny airplane bathrooms? Definitely. But in the end, it’s worth it!
Try to Sleep, But Also Move Around
Most long-haul flights happen during nighttime hours which in theory should make it easy to get some shut eye. Oh if only it were that easy!
Even if it’s perfectly quiet on the plane, and the lights are dimmed, it is still hard to sleep on a plane. Maybe it’s the anticipation of vacationing, but I think it’s more the lack of comfort.
Trying to sleep halfway upright, even with a neck pillow is a little daunting. Hips can cramp up, knees can get achy, and your back can get stiff. If you’re uncomfortable, there’s no getting back to sleep at that point.
If you’ve reached that point, try to move around a little. As long as the seat belt sign is off, and the serving carts aren’t in the aisle, take a little walk up and down the aisle. Stretch the legs out a little and stretch your back.
Sometimes moving around a little bit can take away those aches and help you get back to sleep. And don’t forget your compression socks. These are essential for long distance flights!
Pack Wisely
There are a few creature comforts that you should bring in your carry-on bag for your longer flights. The first item you should have is a neck pillow.
There’s nothing worse than having neck pain for two days because you slept wrong. The second item is an eye mask. Even though the cabin lights are dimmed, there may be some light shining. Especially if someone close by has their reading light on. Eye masks can totally hep with this.
The next item is earplugs/headphones. People talk on planes and babies cry on planes. If you want to tune them out, you’ll need a set of earplugs or headphones.
It’s even better if you have noise cancelling headphones. I know they can get pricey but they really do help.
You should also bring your own light blanket or sweater for the plane. The airlines usually provides you with one, but even flight attendants will tell you they don’t get washed as often as you think. Just find a small packable one to bring in your carry on.
Take Care of Your Skin
This tip is more directed towards women but some men may benefit from this as well. If you wear makeup, make sure to take it off before you go to sleep.
After a long flight, you’re just going to have to redo it anyway so you might as well take it off. Also, before you go to sleep, you should moisturize your face and neck. Remember that part about the planes being dehydrating? It also dries out your skin and lips while you are on board.
Keeping them moisturized helps you feel more refreshed when you land even if you didn’t get a lot of sleep. If you suffer from dry eyes, you may want to pack some eye drops in your carry-on also as a long flight can amplify the symptoms of dry eyes.
Plan Your First Day
I know some of you might not be planners. Some of you just like to see where the day takes you when you land. Which is great…..sometimes. One of the most important steps to beating jet lag is to get on the new time zone as quickly as possible.
This means if you land at 6 am London time, you need to stay awake until most Londoners are going to sleep. The worst thing you can do is land, and then try to go take a nap. Plan at least the first day of your trip.
Try to plan activities that keep you moving and keep you entertained. For example, sitting in a darkened movie theatre will not be doing you any favors when it comes to trying to stay awake. Try to do something that will keep your body active and alert.
Make sure you’re eating meals at the appropriate hour for your new time zone. The more engaged your mind is during that first day, the less you’ll feel tired even if you only slept for an hour on the flight. By the time you wake up the morning after you arrive, you should be adjusted to the time change.
Freshen Up
After you land, head to the airport bathroom to freshen up. I always pack a little freshen up kit in my carry-on. It includes body wipes (basically like a shower in a little paper towel), deodorant, toothpaste, a toothbrush, hair brush, face wash, and a little makeup.
Simply wipe off with the towel, change clothes if you like, put on fresh deodorant, wash your face, brush your teeth and your hair, and add a little makeup (if you want to) and you’re ready to head out for your first day. All in all, in about 15 minutes you’ll feel refreshed and ready to go!
And there you have it! Being cramped up on a plane long distances is never easy but following these tips can certainly make it more enjoyable!
Is there anything else you pack in your carry-on that make long distance flights easier?
