How to Survive a Long Haul Flight

Long haul flights are never the most fun of activities. They can be cramped, uncomfortable and in some cases quite frustrating. Here is my guide to surviving a long haul flight full of tips and tricks to make it a little more bearable. 

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Wear Comfortable Clothes

A long haul flight is not a catwalk and you will only regret wearing uncomfortable clothing. There is absolutely nothing wrong with wearing cute and stylish but comfortable clothing. A couple of hours in you’ll be glad you picked the comfy jogging bottoms and hoodie over the tight jeans and cute blouse. 

Pick Your Seat Wisely

A lot of this is down to personal preference. I personally like an aisle seat because I get twitchy feet and like to get up and move around without disturbing anyone else. However some people hate that and prefer to have a window seat so they have something solid to lean against and sleep. 

Either way make sure you pick and book your seat early to avoid disappointment and to ensure the most comfort for you. 

Bring Your Own Snacks

In flight meals can be really hit and miss. I’ve had some meals that are absolutely fine and others that I couldn’t even stomach the smell. Because of this I would always recommend packing your own tasty snacks. This way if you really don’t like one of the meals you are given then you have an alternative.

Keep Hydrated

Flying dehydrates you. So it is really important to make sure you are drinking plenty of fluids, especially on a long haul flight. If you don’t drink enough it can cause headaches, nausea and generally make you feel rubbish. Take an extra bottle of water with you and top up each time a flight attendant offers refreshments. 

Walk About Often and Wear Compression Socks

Compression socks may not be sexy but they really can help to prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis which can be life threatening. This accompanied by getting up and walking regularly and doing ankle exercises throughout the flight will help blood flow.

Regular movement will also make you feel less achy and stiff once you get off the plane. 

Take Your Own Hand Sanitizer

Post COVID-19 I think we will all be carrying more hand sanitizer with us but it is a must for flights. On my last long haul flight the plane actually ran out of soap in the toilette’s. Luckily I had my trusty bottle of hand sanitizer so I could feel a little cleaner.

Download Your Entertainment Before You Fly

The plane will have onboard entertainment such as music and films but I always like to have my own selection downloaded on my phone. Having a mixture of books, podcasts, movies, music, audiobooks and games will help to keep you occupied. Also remember to take a power-pack so you don’t use up all your battery life. 

Pack Noise Cancelling Headphones

Noise cancelling headphones are great to cut off all the general sounds on a flight along with any unhappy children. 

Take Your Own Personal Comfort Pack

On the majority of long haul flights you will be given your own little pack containing a pillow, sleep mask, earplugs etc. However if you frequently fly long haul then I recommend you invest in your own items and reuse them.

Neck pillows are more comfortable and your sleep mask will be better quality. You can also get earplugs that mold to the shape of your ears to really block out sounds.

Take a Large Scarf

A large scarf or pashmina can be used in multiple ways on a flight. Around your neck like normal to keep off the cabin chills, used as a blanket for extra all over warmth, or folded and used as extra pillow padding. 

Conclusion

I hope these tips will make your next long haul flight more enjoyable and comfortable! Let me know in the comments below if you have any tips you swear by.