Top Tips for Surviving (and Enjoying!) a Long-Haul Flight
I am a huge lover and advocate for travelling long haul. I feel like you can get so much more for your money if you spend that little bit extra on flights and travel that little bit further. Let’s be honest though, long-haul flights are not the most glamorous part of travel! Hours in the air, dry skin, awkward naps, and that moment when you realise your legs have turned to jelly. Sound familiar? With a bit of prep and a few tricks up your sleeve, you can actually make your long flight feel (almost) enjoyable - and arrive at your destination feeling more like a functioning human than a zombie.
So, here are my top tips to help you get through your next long-haul flight like a pro.
1. Pick the Right Seat — It Matters More Than You Think If you’re anything like me, where you sit on the plane can make or break your flight. Want to sleep without being climbed over? Go for a window seat. Need easy access to the loo or like to stretch your legs? Aisle it is. Some people swear by exit row seats for the extra legroom and if you want this, get in there early as they will get booked up. Also keep in mind they’re often near the loos or baby bassinets. Do yourself a favour and check your seat on something like SeatGuru before you fly — future you will be grateful.
2. Dress Like You’re Spending the Day on the Sofa (But in Layers) Comfort is key. Think soft, stretchy clothes — leggings, joggers, oversized hoodies — whatever makes you feel relaxed. But remember plane temps can go from bordering on too warm to freezing in minutes, so layers are your friend. And bring a pair of cosy socks or, even better, compression ones to keep circulation flowing. I know, I know, they aren’t glamorous at all, especially when paired with a pair of Birkenstocks (yes, that’s me!) but they are a must for circulation and your legs will thank you for it as they also help reduce swollen ankles.
3. Water Is Your Best Friend Planes are dry — like, desert-level dry. As someone who suffers with water retention planes, particularly long haul flights, are my worst enemy. I swell up like a balloon unless I drink, drink, drink. Water that is! Drinking water regularly is an absolute must. Bring a reusable bottle and top it up whenever you can. Try to go easy on caffeine and as tempting as it is to take advantage of the included alcoholic drinks, that mid-flight G&T will just dehydrate you more and mess with your sleep. I try and stick to a couple of drinks with the main meal onboard and save myself for the cocktails on the beach!
4. Make Yourself a Little In-Flight Survival Kit A few small comforts can go a long way. Here’s what I always pack in my carry-on: • A blackout eye mask - see tip 5. • Earplugs. I swear by Loop earplugs rather than those foam ones that fall out. Or even noise cancelling headphones but I personally find them uncomfortable as they press on my ears while I’m sleeping, either that or get pushed off. • A neck pillow — get a good one, it makes all the difference • Lip balm and moisturiser (your skin will thank you) I tend to slather it on my face just after take off and then wash my face and do it again before we land. • Toothbrush and toothpaste for a mid-flight refresh or, again, just before you land. Especially good if you are arriving after a night flight. • Hand sanitiser and wipes • A fresh pair of undies and socks — you’ll feel like a new person
5. Try to Sleep on Destination Time This one takes a little effort, but it really helps. If you can, start adjusting your body clock a day or two before your flight. Then, once you’re in the air, try to sleep when it’s night-time at your destination. Can’t sleep? Try that sleep mask you packed in your travel kit. Still struggle? That’s OK — even closing your eyes and relaxing for a bit helps. And if it’s supposed to be daytime where you’re going, do your best to stay awake — distract yourself with movies, books, or a good podcast. Also, change your watch if you can as soon as you get on the plane. Subconsciously it makes all the difference.
6. Get Up and Move Stretch. Walk. Wiggle. Whatever it takes. Sitting still for 10+ hours is no fun for anyone — and it’s not great for your body either. Even just standing up and moving your feet or rolling your shoulders every hour or two makes a big difference.
7. Be Picky with Plane Food I’m probably a little unusual here but I actually really like plane food. Yes it can be a bit hit or miss but it really does make me happy! Remember though that you don’t have to eat everything you’re given. Timings might be off and you don’t fancy dinner when it’s breakfast time or visa versa. Don’t be afraid to say no thank you. I always stash a few bits in my bag just in case, especially when travelling with children. A favourite snack, piece of fruit and protein bars are always good to have. You can even pack noodle pots and ask the airline staff to add hot water for a quick easy meal, a popular trick in Asia.
8. Charge Everything and Download Ahead of Time Planes don’t always have working USB ports, and the Wi-Fi? Not always reliable. Download your shows, music, audiobooks, and games before you fly, and make sure all your devices are fully charged. A portable charger is worth its weight in gold at 35,000 feet.
9. Freshen Up Before You Land Re confirming what I said above, this is a must for me. About an hour before landing, pop to the loo, wash your face, moisturise. brush your teeth, maybe even change your top — trust me, you’ll feel so much better. That little refresh routine can help shake off the grogginess and help you face immigration looking halfway alive.
10. Mindset Is Everything Instead of dreading a long haul flight flip the script and treat long haul flights like bonus “me time”, it’s not so bad. Binge a series, read that book you’ve been putting off, or just sit back and do nothing. Embrace the slow-down — it’s all part of the journey.
Flying long-haul doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With a few clever hacks, you can get through it feeling calm, comfy, and even a little bit smug. The world is really a small place. Now get out there and explore it. Happy travels!
