- Plan ahead by booking early, choosing the right seat, and packing essentials like a travel pillow and noise-canceling headphones.
- Dress in comfortable, breathable layers to stay cozy and adjust to varying cabin temperatures during the flight.
- Staying hydrated is crucial, so drink water regularly and avoid alcohol or caffeine to prevent dehydration.
- Move around the cabin frequently and do simple stretches to promote circulation and prevent stiffness or DVT.
- Prepare for jet lag by adjusting your sleep schedule in advance and getting outside in natural light upon arrival.
Long flights can be both exciting and exhausting. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, an occasional traveler, or even aspire to become a flight attendant, it’s important to have a strategy for enduring those lengthy hours in the air. Flight attendants, with their years of experience, know exactly how to make long-haul flights bearable, and they’ve got great tips to share. This guide offers expert advice and essential items to pack for surviving any long journey in comfort and style.
1. Plan Ahead: The Key to a Smooth Experience
The best way to set yourself up for a comfortable flight begins well before you even board the plane. Start by choosing the right seat. If you have a preference for extra legroom, select an aisle seat. For those who want a window view and a chance to lean against the wall, the window seat is ideal. Many frequent flyers recommend booking early to increase your chances of snagging the best seat.
Also, check the airline’s baggage restrictions in advance. Overpacking or misunderstanding carry-on limitations can add unnecessary stress to your trip. Organize your personal items in such a way that the essentials are easily accessible once you’re on board.
2. Dress for Comfort
What you wear on a long flight can make a significant difference. Flight attendants often recommend dressing in layers, as cabin temperatures can fluctuate. Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing to maintain comfort throughout the journey. Avoid tight jeans or restrictive clothing that can make sitting for long periods more uncomfortable.
Don’t forget to pack an extra layer, like a light jacket or scarf, in case it gets cold. Opt for slip-on shoes to make security checks easier and to allow you to kick off your shoes mid-flight for added comfort.
3. Stay Hydrated
The dry air in an airplane cabin can lead to dehydration, which can exacerbate jet lag and make you feel sluggish. Staying hydrated is one of the most important tips for a long flight, as flight attendants often remind passengers. Bring your own reusable water bottle and fill it up after passing through security to ensure you have plenty of water available.
While it may be tempting to indulge in a glass of wine or a cocktail, alcohol can contribute to dehydration and leave you feeling worse later in the flight. Stick to water or hydrating drinks like coconut water or herbal teas.
4. Bring the Right Travel Essentials
Flight attendants know that a well-packed carry-on bag can make all the difference in surviving a long-haul flight. Here are a few things that you can consider bringing along:
- Travel Pillow and Blanket: Opt for an inflatable pillow to save space and a lightweight blanket or scarf to stay cozy.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: Block out engine noise or chatter around you with a good pair of headphones.
- Eye Mask and Earplugs: Essential for catching some sleep on a red-eye flight.
- Toiletries: Pack a small bag with items like hand sanitizer, facial wipes, lip balm, and moisturizer to combat dry air. A toothbrush and toothpaste can also help you feel refreshed before landing.
- Entertainment: Load up your tablet or phone with books, podcasts, movies, or music to pass the time.
5. Move Around Frequently
Sitting for long periods can increase the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition where blood clots form in the legs due to poor circulation. Flight attendants always advise passengers to stand up and move around the cabin regularly to keep the blood flowing. Even simple stretches while sitting can help prevent stiffness.
Take a short walk every hour or so, and if you’re seated by the window, make a habit of stretching your legs or doing some ankle rotations from your seat.
6. Mind Your Diet
What you eat before and during the flight can affect how you feel. Heavy, greasy foods can make you feel sluggish and uncomfortable during a long flight. Choose light, healthy meals that are rich in fiber and protein to keep your energy levels up without overwhelming your stomach.
Flight attendants often snack on fruits, nuts, and protein bars during their shifts, which are perfect options for passengers as well. If you have dietary preferences or restrictions, it’s a good idea to bring your own snacks to ensure you have something you enjoy.
7. Get Some Sleep
A long flight is the perfect opportunity to catch up on rest, but sleeping on a plane can be tricky. Flight attendants suggest using an eye mask and earplugs to block out light and noise. A neck pillow can also make a big difference in supporting your head and preventing stiffness.
Settle into your seat with your travel blanket and try to relax. Avoid using electronics that emit blue light right before you plan to sleep, as they can make it harder to doze off. If you struggle to sleep on planes, consider using a natural sleep aid, like melatonin, after consulting with your doctor.
8. Stay Entertained
It’s easy to get bored on a long flight, but with a little preparation, you can keep yourself entertained for hours. Download movies, podcasts, or audiobooks onto your device before boarding, as Wi-Fi can be unreliable during flights. Many airlines offer in-flight entertainment, so check what’s available beforehand.
If you’re more of a reader, bring along a good book or load up your e-reader with several titles. Puzzle books, crosswords, or even coloring books can also help pass the time.
9. Combat Jet Lag
One of the most challenging parts of long-haul travel is adjusting to different time zones. To minimize jet lag, try to adjust your sleep schedule a few days before your flight. Once on board, set your watch to the time at your destination to help mentally prepare for the change.
After landing, get outside in the natural light as soon as possible, which will help reset your internal clock. Hydration, movement, and light meals can also help ease the transition.
By following these flight attendant-approved tips, you’ll be well-prepared to survive your next long flight with ease, making the journey a more enjoyable part of your travel experience.
For those looking for a comprehensive and adaptable training program, Eton College offers a Flight Attendant Preparation Program. This program is specifically designed to equip students with the essential skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in the aviation industry, preparing them for the unique demands of becoming a flight attendant.
FAQ: Surviving a Long Flight
- How can I stay comfortable on a long flight?
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing, stay hydrated, and bring travel essentials like a neck pillow and noise-canceling headphones.
- What should I eat before a long flight?
- Opt for light, healthy meals with protein and fiber. Avoid heavy, greasy foods that could upset your stomach during the flight.
- How often should I move around during a flight?
- Aim to get up and walk around every hour or so to promote circulation and prevent stiffness or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
- How can I sleep better on a plane?
- Use an eye mask and earplugs to block out distractions, and consider bringing a neck pillow for added comfort.
- What should I pack in my carry-on for a long flight?
- Essentials include a travel pillow, blanket, noise-canceling headphones, snacks, toiletries, and entertainment to keep you comfortable and occupied during the flight.
