Long plane trips can be draining, but with the right level of planning and attitude, they can also be comfortable and even fun. From a ten-hour flight to a 12-hour flight and even longer, knowing what to do on a long flight can truly be a game-changer! This guide will give you tips for long flight survival and tips for surviving long airplane flights.
Get Ready for a Long Plane Trip
For surviving long plane rides, preparation is key. Here are a few essential steps to take ahead of your trip:
a) Choose the Right Seat
- Choosing an exit row or bulkhead seat will give you extra legroom.
- If you want a smooth ride, sit near the wing; turbulence is less pronounced there.
- If you plan on sleeping, avoid the seats near the lavatories or galley, as these are often very noisy spaces.
- If you’re planning to read or work, an aisle seat gives you more legroom; if you plan to sleep, a window seat is better.
b) Dress Comfortably
- Wear loose, breathable fabrics, such as cotton or moisture-wicking material.
- Dress in layers, as cabin temperatures can vary.
- Wear easy-on shoes to slip off and compression socks to avoid swelling.
c) Things to Carry to Handle Long Haul Flights
Packing the right items can turn your long-haul flight ordeal into a fabulous experience.
- Neck pillow & eye mask: To sleep better when flying, etc.
- Noise-canceling headphones: To drown out engine noise and crying babies.
- Compression socks: Prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
- Moisturizer & lip balm: The Air inside a cabin can be extremely dry.
- Snacks: Airplane food may not cut it, so pack some nutritious snacks.
- Entertainment: Books, downloaded movies, podcasts, or music.
- Portable charger & extra batteries: Don’t let your devices die on you mid-flight.
- Toiletries: for a Travel-size toothpaste, and other toothbrush the deodorant, and wet wipes.
What To Do On A Long Plane Flight?
Being stuck in a chair for hours on end can be uncomfortable. Here’s what to do on long plane trips to stay entertained and comfortable.
- a) Entertainment Options
- Spend some time watching movies or binge-watching your favorite series.
- Get books back on the shelf, or try some audiobooks.
- Play mobile games or puzzles.
- Listen to soothing music or podcasts.
- b) Stay Hydrated & Eat Right
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate; the air onboard the plane is deadly dry.
- Stay away from too much caffeine and alcohol, both of which are dehydrating.
- Avoid eating heavy meals that are hard to digest.
- c) Move Around & Stretch
- Stand up and stroll around the cabin several times every couple of hours.
- Do in-seat stretches (eg, stretch your legs, rotate your ankles).
- Do seated exercises, like shoulder rolls and neck stretches, to avoid stiffness.
- d) Sleep Well on the Plane
- Adjust your body clock by setting your watch to the destination’s time zone.
- Pack some earplugs and an eye mask to mute sounds and light.
- Keep your seat reclined a notch or two, and bring a travel pillow for extra support.
How to Survive Long Flights: 10 tips for your next long-haul flight
- a) Adjust to Time Zones Early
- If you’re flying to another time zone, adjust your sleep schedule a few days before you leave.
- On the flight, try to sleep and eat as you would at the time of day at your destination’s time zone.
- b) Take Care of Your Skin
- Mist a hydrating face mist or face moisturizer.
- Use lip balm on your lips to prevent them from chapping
- Keep the makeup light, heavy makeup can dry out your skin.
- c) Keep Yourself Healthy
- Pack antibacterials to wipe your hands and tray table._
- Use hand sanitizer regularly.
- If you do feel ill, put on a mask so that you don’t spread the germs.
Conclusion
They are not doing well, but you don’t have to suffer a long plane flight. By packing everything you need and doing it right, you can make a long airplane trip more bearable. No matter if you find yourself on a 6-hour flight, 10-hour flight, or even 12-hour flight, travelling with these tips for long flights will have you arriving at your destination fresh and ready to go.
FAQS About Long Plane Trips
What is your best tip for making a long flight more comfortable?
Wear something comfortable, pick your seat well, hydrate, and bring entertainment and travel essentials (neck pillow, moisturizer, etc.).
What are some tips for sleeping on a plane?
Try a neck pillow, an eye mask, white-noise sound, or reclining your seat a little for support.
How do you avoid jet lag on a long-haul flight?
Start acclimating to the new time zone before you fly, drink water, and take plenty of rest when you arrive.
What Do You Do on a 6-Hour Flight?
- Watch a movie or two.
- Read a book or magazine.
- Eat and drink water.
- Take short naps.
You’re on a 10-Hour Flight — What Do You Do?
- Divide your flight into segments: movies, meals, sleep, stretches.
- Get up and walk around the cabin every few hours.
- Use a travel pillow so that you can get more rest.
- Drink lots of water and use moisturizer.
What Do You Do on a 12-Hour Flight?
- Stick to a hot 10-hour flight that’s heavier on sleep.
- Use meditation breathing to calm yourself.
- Sleep per your new time zone.
How to Avoid Discomfort on Long Airplane Flights
- Bring a travel blanket to keep warm.
- Steer clear of any tight-fitted or restrictive clothing.
- Store necessary items in a small carry-on bag within arm’s reach.
- Keep active — get up and walk around at every opportunity to fight stiffness.
