How to survive a long-haul flight

Written on : 05 November 2019
By : Clarisse Haurogné

Many travellers fear flying for more than 10 hours because a long-haul flight can often be long and unpleasant. Nevertheless, a long flight is also the promise of a great escape to an exciting land far away. All you have to do is prepare yourself well so that the journey takes place in the best possible conditions.

Everyone knows, of course, the famous proverb saying that sleeping during a flight makes it pass faster. That's a very true saying! However, this is not the only solution to be adopted. Here are 8 valuable tips to help you enjoy a better long-haul flight.

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Choosing the right place

If you have the opportunity to choose your seat in advance, don't hesitate and just go for it! Do you prefer the window or an aisle seat? Travellers tend to prefer the window because it is more comfortable, you can rest against the side and admire superb views. If you tend to go to the toilet often, we recommend the hallway side because you won't have to disturb everyone.

The ideal solution remains to opt for seats at the wing level, particularly those located next to the emergency exit. This will give you more legroom and less turbulence as you will be placed close to the aircraft's centre of gravity. And above all, absolutely avoid the places next to the toilets, otherwise, you will not be able to sleep a wink for the entire flight.

Bringing a travel cushion

Airlines generally provide a cushion on long-haul flights, but it is not always very comfortable. So remember to bring your own travel pillow so you can sleep with your head straight and not get a big stiff neck. Also, take a night mask with you so as not to be disturbed by multiple light nuisances. All of these handy items will help you sleep well during your flight!

Don't forget your earplugs

Earplugs are probably the essential accessory for a good night's sleep and therefore a long flight. Useful for any mode of transport, bring a box of earplugs in your backpack. Indeed, between the noises of passengers and staff passing through the rows and talking, as well as the aircraft's engines, you may have difficulty finding sleep easily. Travellers also opt for the even more efficient earmuff.

Take something to distract yourself

Long-haul airlines generally offer a selection of films on board. However, there is not always a great choice to match your taste. So bring a good paperback book, magazines or your laptop to watch your own movies. If you and your children want to take care of things differently, games are sometimes available on the plane's monitors or even feel free to bring a good old-fashioned card game!

Dress comfortably

Essential advice for being comfortable during a long flight, avoid tight clothing at all costs. Wearing loose and comfortable clothing will allow you to adopt the ideal position to make your flight more enjoyable. So say goodbye to skinny jeans on your trip!

Also, avoid bringing your jewellery kit with you. You will be much more comfortable during the flight and you will save time during the checks.

Get up regularly

It may be tempting to sit around and take a nap and watch movies for more than 10 hours, but that's not a very good idea. To avoid the risks of thrombosis and phlebitis caused by altitude, dehydration and lack of movement, remember to move a little. Try to get up regularly to walk in the aisles and stretch to improve your blood circulation. If you are next to the window, do not be shy and do not hesitate to disturb your neighbour to get up as you will risk ending up having a body like jelly by the end of your flight.

Moisturise

The air in the aircraft is pressurized, so humidity tends to drop and the air inside the aircraft is particularly dry. You are at high risk of suffering from dehydration if you do not drink enough during the flight. So remember to buy water bottles or fill them to not to run out of water. Alcohol and caffeine also contribute to dehydration. Nevertheless, you are on holiday so don't deprive yourself, but keep this in mind when judging your fluid intake and just remember to drink water. Your body will be all the more grateful to you.

Bring some snacks

During a long flight, you will receive at least one meal. However, airlines are renowned for the arguably sub-standard quality of food nowadays, at least in economy class. So remember to bring snacks as you may be hungry at some point during the flight.

However, digestion works slowly in the air so do not exaggerate on food during the flight either as this may cause stomach ache.