The Long-Haul Flight Survival Guide: How to Arrive Rested, Entertained, and Cramp-Free!

The Long-Haul Flight Survival Guide: How to Arrive Rested, Entertained, and Cramp-Free!
Vanesa Lucero
Vanesa Lucero
September 3rd 2023

Hey all you jetsetters, globe-trotters, and travel aficionados!

Raise your hand if you love jetting off to far-flung destinations but dread the long hours sandwiched in an airplane seat. Yep, you’re not alone.

But what if I told you that long-haul flights don’t have to be your personal 9th circle of Dante’s Inferno? Read on for the ultimate survival guide to keep you comfy, entertained, and well-rested from takeoff to landing!

The Pre-Flight Prep

Before you even step onto that plane, you gotta prep, folks! That means hydrating like you’re a camel preparing for a desert trek and loading your devices with entertainment.

Travel Tip: Download a variety of content—movies, shows, podcasts, e-books. Because let’s be real, WiFi in the sky is as reliable as a compass in the Bermuda Triangle.

Gear Up for Comfort

Ditch those tight jeans and invest in some ‘airplane loungewear.’ Think soft, breathable, and elasticated! And socks. Never forget the socks.

Travel Hack: Bring a lightweight scarf or pashmina. It can serve as a blanket, a pillow, or even an impromptu curtain if you’re stuck in a chatty neighbor situation.

Secure Your Seat Kingdom

Arrive early and secure the holy grail of airplane real estate: the Exit Row. If that’s a no-go, at least try for an aisle seat for easier mobility.

Travel Tip: Use apps or check the airline’s seating chart to select the best available seats. Some airlines allow free seat selection during online check-in.

The Snack Pack Attack

Yes, the airline will provide meals, but let’s face it, there’s no Michelin-star chef on board. Pack your own ‘snack pack’ full of healthy, protein-rich snacks.

Travel Hack: DIY trail mix is your best friend. Mix in some nuts, dried fruit, and a dash of something sweet like chocolate chips.

Hydration Station

The air in the plane is drier than a stand-up comedy night in the Sahara. You need to stay hydrated!

Travel Tip: Pack an empty water bottle to fill up after security. Keep sipping throughout the flight to fend off dehydration and jet lag.

In-Flight Yoga (Sorta)

Don’t be that person who stands in the aisle doing sun salutations, but do get up and stretch periodically.

Travel Hack: There are a lot of in-seat exercises that can keep your blood flowing. Think ankle circles, foot pumps, and knee lifts.

Get Some Shut-Eye

Sleeping upright is a skill only mastered by giraffes and seasoned travelers.

Travel Tip: Pack a quality neck pillow. Forget the inflatable ones; memory foam is where it’s at. Add an eye mask and earplugs to your sleep kit and you’re golden!

Entertainment Extravaganza

Now, it’s time to dive into that content you downloaded earlier. With your cozy setup and snack pack by your side, those hours will fly by—pun intended.

Travel Hack: Bring your own headphones. The ones they provide are usually flimsy and have the audio quality of a 90s answering machine.

 

As you approach your destination, get your stuff organized, do a few more stretches, and start guzzling water to rehydrate. And voila, you’ve survived the long-haul flight like a seasoned pro!

So there you have it, folks! Implement these tips and tricks, and you’ll be stepping off that plane ready to conquer your next adventure.

Safe travels!

Vanesa Lucero
Vanesa Lucero
Hey there, fellow adventurers! I'm Vanesa, your enthusiastic explorer and storyteller extraordinaire. Join me as we uncover hidden treasures, immerse ourselves in vibrant cultures, and embark on wild adventures across the globe. Let's conquer bucket lists, embrace the unknown, and make unforgettable memories together. Welcome to my travel wonderland!