Hey, are you planning a long flight and worried about what you will do all those hours? Well, embarking on a long flight can often be the least enjoyable part of traveling. We agree with that, especially when faced with cramped seats, fluctuating cabin temperatures, and the inevitable jet lag. However, with a bit of preparation and a few strategic choices, you can transform these hours in the air into a pleasant part of your trip.

You are reading BesTripTips, and today, you will know how to make long flights more comfortable with 20 valuable suggestions from our side!

Understanding how to enhance your in-flight experience is crucial and can go from selecting the right seat to packing essential comfort items. One thing is sure: by the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with practical strategies that promise to make your next long flight significantly more bearable. So, buckle up and be ready to dive into these essential travel hacks!

How To Survive A 20 Hour Flight?

Indeed, a 12-hour flight is considered a long one, but what about reaching Japan, Mexico, or Australia, for instance? In that case, the situation is even worse, with flights lasting from 15 to more than 20 hours! Such a flight can seem daunting, even to the most seas oned traveler. If you consider spending almost a full day confined to an airplane cabin, it is no surprise that your enthusiasm for travel is dampened! 

But now that you are reading this article, long flights won’t ever be an endurance test of discomfort and boredom. So, listed below, you can find 20 tips to make long flights more comfortable:

1. Choose the Right Seat

Selecting the right seat is critical on a long flight, especially if you plan to sleep! In this case, a window seat lets you lean against the wall without being disturbed by other passengers moving. Instead, an aisle seat might be better if you prefer more freedom to stretch and walk around. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly travel, consider that extra legroom seats often cost more, but the expenditure is worthwhile on such a long journey!

2. Dress in Layers

If you have often traveled by airplane, you know that aircraft cabin temperatures can fluctuate significantly, so dressing in layers is key. What do we mean? Opt for soft, breathable fabrics that feel good against your skin, enhancing your comfort during long hours seated. Always take a hoodie by your side: this way, you can easily add or remove layers to stay comfortable.

3. Stay Hydrated

The low humidity in airplane cabins can lead to dehydration, negatively impacting jet lag and fatigue during your stay. So, remember to drink plenty of water before and during the flight!

4. Pack Healthy Snacks

Airline meals are often spaced several hours apart and might not always suit your dietary preferences or needs. Packing your own healthy snacks, such as fruit, nuts, or energy bars, ensures you have access to nutritious food whenever you feel hungry!

5. Bring a Good Neck Pillow

A good quality neck pillow can significantly affect your comfort levels. Look for one that supports your neck and aligns with your spine, reducing the chance of waking up with soreness or stiffness. You can easily find it in various shops inside the airport before your departure!

6. Stretch Regularly

Sitting in one position for an extended period can lead to cramping and poor circulation. Make a point to get up, stretch, and walk around the cabin every few hours. You can also perform simple stretches in your seat to keep blood flowing and muscles relaxed.

7. Use Noise-Canceling Headphones

Noise-canceling headphones can be a game-changer on long flights. Is a child crying? People won’t stop talking around you? Choose noise-canceling headphones that will help you escape the ambient cabin noise, allowing for relaxation or sleep, and can enhance your entertainment experience by providing clearer audio for movies or music..

8. Follow a Sleep Schedule

To help mitigate jet lag, try to sleep according to the nighttime hours of your destination. Depending on your route, this might mean staying awake at the beginning of the flight and sleeping later or vice versa.

9. Limit Alcohol and Caffeine

These substances can disrupt your sleep cycle and lead to dehydration, so avoid them and opt for other hydrating beverages.

10. Entertain Yourself

Prepare for long periods of inactivity by loading your smartphone, tablet, or laptop with various forms of entertainment. Movies, e-books, and games can keep you occupied and pass faster.

11. Use a Sleep Mask and Earplugs

A sleep mask will block out the cabin light while earplugs drown out the noise, creating a more conducive environment for sleep. Consider buying them before your flight!!

12. Take Care of Your Skin

The dry cabin air can dehydrate your skin. To keep it feeling refreshed, pack a small toiletry bag with moisturizer, lip balm, and hydrating mist.

13. Practice Relaxation Techniques

Long flights can be stressful, so preparing some relaxation techniques can be very beneficial. Practice deep breathing or meditation to help calm your mind and reduce anxiety.

14. Stay Organized

Keeping your essential items within easy reach reduces stress and allows you to relax more during the flight. Have a small bag with your essentials under the seat before you.

15. Set Up a Comfortable Space

Utilize blankets and pillows provided by the airline to create a comfortable sleeping environment in your seat. Adjusting the air vent and using your items can help tailor the space to your needs.

16. Keep Medications Handy

If you regularly take medications, ensure they are easily accessible during the flight. This is especially important for those with health conditions who might need sudden medication.

17. Wear Comfortable Footwear

Choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off and are comfortable for standing or walking. Swelling in the feet and ankles is common on long flights, so compression socks should be considered to improve circulation.

18. Download the Airline’s App

The airline’s app on your phone can provide valuable information about the flight, entertainment options on board, and even meal times.

19. Prepare for Landing

As your flight begins its descent, prepare for landing by organizing your belongings, freshening up in the lavatory, and reviewing any customs and immigration documents needed for your arrival.

20. Adjust Your Watch

Setting your watch to your destination’s time zone at the beginning of your flight helps mentally prepare you for the new schedule. This small but effective strategy can aid in adjusting your internal clock and reduce the effects of jet lag. Is a proactive approach that is all about mentally aligning yourself with your destination, promoting a smoother adaptation to the local environment as soon as you land.

Now You Know All The Right Strategies To Make Long Flights More Comfortable!

So, you learned that surviving a long flight is mainly about preparing and making intelligent choices tailored to your comfort and needs, for example, selecting the right seat, staying hydrated, packing nutritious snacks, and creating a cozy environment around you. Remember, every little comfort you add can help mitigate the fatigue and stress associated with long-duration flights and jet lag. As you implement these travel tips, you’ll find that even the longest flights can be managed easily, allowing you to arrive at your destination refreshed and ready to explore! So, pack your carry-on thoughtfully, approach your journey with a positive mindset, and turn those daunting hours in the air into an opportunity for relaxation and self-care. Then, come back here at BesTripTips for other valuable suggestions for your next adventure worldwide!