The Long-Haul Survival Guide: Making the Most of Your International Flight

Long international flights can take the buzz out of even the most exciting trips. Balancing the urge to explore the world and the challenge of being stuck at 30,000 feet for many hours requires strategy and patience. Through my travels across the globe and the many time zones, I have refined a survival guide for long-haul flights. So, let's delve into the nitty-gritty of preparing for your odyssey in the skies.

Before boarding: The Little Things Matter

1. Dress Comfortably: Opt for loose, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes. A scarf or shawl can double up to keep you warm or serve as an impromptu pillow.

2. Portable Chargers: You don't want to run out of battery in the middle of your in-flight movie or music session. Make sure to carry a fully charged portable power bank.

3. Travel Essentials: Prepare a small pouch containing essentials such as hand sanitizer, wet wipes, lip balm, face cream, an eye mask, earplugs, and a toothbrush to keep yourself refreshed.

In-Flight: Strategies for Comfort

1. Hydrate and Eat right: Stay hydrated with water; avoid alcohol and caffeine as they can enhance jet lag. Opt for lighter meal options available during the flight, avoiding foods that might make you feel bloated. Arranging for special meals ahead of time via the airline’s website can help you ensure you’re getting something that will work for you. Don’t for get to pack some snacks.

2. Move Around: Sitting in one place for long durations can lead to muscle cramps and even risk deep vein thrombosis. Make it a point to get up, stretch, and move around the cabin every few hours. You don’t want to be too stiff to explore once you land!

Entertainment: Beat the In-flight Boredom

1. Mix it Up: Break up the journey into manageable time blocks involving movies, reading, sleeping, games, etc.

2. Tech Companions: Most planes will have built-in entertainment systems to help keep you occupied, but every once in a while they don’t work—and if you don’t have a backup plan, you’re in big trouble! Bring a tablet and/or e-reader and load them with books, magazines, games, shows or movies you've been meaning to catch up on. And don’t forget your headphones and a portable battery pack!

Rest & Relax: The Importance of Sleep

1. Adjust to Local Time: Try and adjust your body clock to the destination’s timezone. Sleep when it's night there, even if it's daylight outside your window! If you want to take them, melatonin and other sleep aids can help (but make sure they’re a good choice for you…they’re not great for everyone!).

2. Travel Pillow: A good travel pillow can be a lifesaver when trying to nap in awkward sitting positions.

3. Create Your Personal Space: Use an eye mask to block out your neighbor’s screen or reading light. And you’ll want earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to tone down the engine noise, announcements, and other passengers’ conversations. This will help create a sleep-friendly environment.

Avoid Jet Lag: Be Proactive

1. Timezone Adjustment: Start adjusting your daily routine few days prior to travel; this makes the transition smoother. There are apps you can download that can help you come up with a good plan to adjust to your new time zone quickly.

2. Stay Active: During the flight, exercise in your seat or stroll down the aisle whenever possible to increase circulation.

3. Hydrate: Plenty of water and avoiding excessive caffeine or alcohol can help your body cope with the changes.

Amplify the Enjoyment: Adopt A Positive Mindset

Remember that traveling across the globe is an incredible accomplishment. The long flight is just a part of the journey, not a hurdle. Embrace this time as ‘you-time’ where you get to listen to that podcast you've been ignoring or start that novel that’s been languishing on your bedside table. With these tips in your arsenal, consider yourself equipped to conquer the challenges of long-haul flights. Transform these hours from a tolerable inconvenience into an enjoyable part of your global adventures!

To start planning your next international trip, click HERE.