Travel Tips: Long-Haul Flights 

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Picture this: you're about to hop on your next adventure to the vibrant streets of New York, the historic wonders of Rome, the picturesque landscapes of Madrid, or the iconic shores of Maldives. You have your itinerary ready, and all your outfits are packed and planned. You even have photo and video pegs for your personal social media content. But before you get to your dream destination, there’s one thing you should survive first: a flight that lasts for six to ten hours–or maybe more.

As thrilling as it is, long-haul flights come with their own set of challenges and considerations. From battling jet lag to ensuring in-flight comfort, here are essential tips to remember so you’ll arrive at your destination refreshed and ready to explore.  

Before you take-off

1. Be strategic about your flight time 

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Your journey begins the moment you book your flight. If possible, choose a time that aligns with your natural sleep patterns. Red-eye flights or flights that coincide with your typical bedtime can help you adjust more easily to different time zones.To avoid or minimize jet lag, consider adjusting your activities, such as eating and sleeping, to match the schedule of your destination during the flight.

2. Reserve your ideal seat

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We all have different travel preferences, and you have to know which seating option works better for you. An aisle seat provides easy access to stretch your legs and move around, while a window seat offers a great view and a comfortable corner to lean on for a nap. If you want more leg room, you can choose seats at the exit rows.

3. Dress comfortably

You want to make sure you’re wearing something you’d still be happy to be on for more than six hours. Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing and bring scarves or shawls to accommodate temperature changes in the cabin. Footwear-wise, slip-on shoes are ideal choices since they’re easy to take off during security checks and onboard. If you don’t feel like wearing slip-ons, you can consider wearing compression socks for extra comfort.

4. Bring your sleeping gear

You’ll be on the plane for almost a day, so it’s a must to prepare your sleep essentials. Consider using earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to block out cabin noise and help you doze off. Neck pillows and blankets can enhance your in-flight rest, ensuring you wake up feeling rejuvenated.

5. Create an anti-boredom plan

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Think of your long-haul flight as your me-time. You can use it to catch up on your favorite shows or finish an album and a book with no interruptions. Load your devices with movies, TV series, music, or e-books to keep yourself entertained throughout the flight. Airlines often offer in-flight entertainment, but having your own options ensures you get a more enjoyable time.

6. Prepare some snacks 

While airlines typically provide meals during long-haul flights, having your own snacks on hand can be a lifesaver, especially if you have dietary preferences or restrictions. Pack some of your favorite snacks such as nuts, granola bars, or dried fruit to satisfy your cravings between meals. This way, you'll stay fueled throughout the flight.

7. Organize your carry-on 

Efficient packing is essential for a hassle-free long-haul flight. Prioritize packing items that you'll need during the flight and any necessary medications in your carry-on bag. Place important travel documents in a secure, easily accessible pouch. To ensure you don’t forget to pack everything you need, download The Travel Club’s Ultimate Travel Checklist.

During the flight

8. Stay hydrated

The dry cabin air can lead to dehydration, which can result in discomfort and fatigue. You can avoid this by drinking plenty of water throughout the flight. Bring a reusable water bottle and ask flight attendants for a refill. This will help you stay adequately hydrated throughout the flight. 

9. Do gentle exercises

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Staying seated for extended periods can lead to stiffness and discomfort. Ankle circles, knee lifts, and neck and shoulder rolls are simple exercises you can do to help improve your blood circulation and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). When it’s safe to do so, you may also take short walks up and down the aisle and stretch your legs to get some movement.

10. Freshen up before getting out of the plane 

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Before disembarking the plane, take a quick break to the lavatory to brush your teeth and wash your face. Applying a bit of moisturizer can also help counteract the dry cabin air. It’s such a small thing to do but it will make you feel rejuvenated as you go into your new adventure.

With a bit of planning and these essential tips, you can make your journey as enjoyable as the destination itself. Remember: every moment in the air brings you closer to the adventure you’ve always dreamed of. So fasten your seatbelt and get ready for the incredible wonders that await you.

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