Have you ever dreaded an upcoming long flight? These extended journeys come with their own set of unique challenges: muscle cramps from hours of sitting, endless boredom, and the struggle to get any sleep. Add to that the unpredictability of cabin temperatures, crying infants, and the monotony of in-flight meals, and it can seem like an exhausting experience. Imagine being stuck next to a snorer and not being able to find your headphones because your bag is overpacked. But fear not, long flights don’t have to be a hassle.

Looking to make your long-haul air travel more enjoyable? The key lies in choosing the right seat, packing all the essentials, and planning activities to pass the time. With a bit of preparation, your next long flight can be surprisingly pleasant. Here are our pro-tips for having as comfortable a plane ride as possible.

Choose the Right Seat

First things first: picking the right seat on your flight is crucial. Aim for a window seat if you want uninterrupted rest, or an aisle seat if you value legroom and quick bathroom access. Whatever you do, steer clear of the dreaded middle seat. Think seat selection is for picky control freaks? NOPE. The seat you choose can seriously impact the quality of your flight experience, so choose wisely.

If your main priority is getting some sleep, a window seat might be optimal for you. No one will be waking you up, asking to climb over you to use the bathroom. If legroom or easy bathroom access is your main concern, choosing an aisle seat is probably best. But if—through no fault of your own—you wind up in the middle seat? Our condolences, friends. May the force be with you.

Be Prepared

Now that you’ve chosen your seat, it’s crucial to show up for your flight well-prepared. Not sure what to pack? Focus on items that keep you hydrated, comfortable, or entertained. Bring nasal spray, lip balm, eye drops, and wet towelettes to combat the dry plane air, which can be quite dehydrating and uncomfortable if you’re not prepared.

Dress in comfortable clothes and pack a sweater to stay warm. Earplugs and an eye mask will help you block out noise and light when you’re ready to rest. Additionally, bring a book or magazine and your personal music player to keep you occupied. You probably won’t sleep through the whole flight, and having something to pass the time will make the journey more enjoyable.

Consider packing a small, portable charger to keep your devices powered throughout the flight. There’s nothing worse than your phone dying mid-movie or your e-reader running out of juice just as you get to the good part. Compression socks are also a smart addition to improve circulation and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis.

Focus on Sleep Comfort

When packing your carry-on, prioritize items that enhance your ability to sleep. Start with hydration aids like a refillable water bottle and moisturizer to combat the dry cabin air. Dress in comfortable layers and include a travel blanket to handle temperature fluctuations. Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs and an eye mask are essential for blocking out distractions and ensuring rest. For longer flights, bring a neck pillow or travel pillow to support your head and neck.

To further improve your sleep comfort, consider using a sleep aid if it’s suitable for you, and make sure to adjust your sleep schedule in the days leading up to your flight to minimize jet lag. With the right preparation, you can arrive at your destination feeling rested and ready to go.

Stay Clean

Be sure to pack a toothbrush, toothpaste, and some mouthwash. Some airlines provide these items for you, but bring your own just in case. Not only will your mouth thank you—few things are worse than the awful breath that comes along with breathing in that dry, plane air—but your fellow passengers will thank you as well. Don’t forget your deodorant and hand-sanitizer too. Again, all of your fellow travelers will love you endlessly for it.

Furthermore, add facial wipes and a small moisturizer to your travel kit. The recycled air in planes can leave your skin feeling parched and dull, so keeping it hydrated and refreshed will make a world of difference. A travel-sized pack of tissues can also come in handy, especially if you accidentally spill or if you need to freshen up quickly. Lastly, don’t overlook the importance of staying hydrated throughout your flight—drink plenty of water and use lip balm to prevent chapped lips.

Eat Light and Healthy

When it comes to eating on long flights, opting for light and healthy meals can make a big difference in how you feel throughout the journey. Heavy, rich foods can leave you feeling sluggish and uncomfortable, especially if you’re going to be sitting for a while. Instead, choose meals that are balanced and easy to digest, such as salads with lean protein, sandwiches with whole grain bread, or wraps filled with vegetables and hummus.

Pack nutritious snacks like fresh fruit, nuts, or granola bars to satisfy hunger between meals without weighing you down. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, as they can make you dehydrated and disrupt your sleep. By prioritizing light and nutritious foods, you’ll arrive at your destination feeling energized rather than weighed down by heavy meals.

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Related: Here Are Some of the Most Common Mistakes to Avoid on Long Flights!

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Keep it Moving

Airplanes can sometimes feel like claustrophobic steel tubes. But, if you keep the blood flowing, you’ll be much more comfortable and much less likely to want to jump out the emergency exit in search of more legroom. When you get up to use the bathroom, take the opportunity to walk up and down the aisle a few times, or stand for a few extra moments in the galley.

Even better, you can do some plane yoga. That’s right. This is a real thing. For a quick and effective stretch, try seated calf raises or ankle circles to improve circulation in your legs. Stand up to stretch your arms and back in the aisle or by the galley to alleviate stiffness.

For a seated twist, sit upright in your seat, place your right hand on your left knee, and gently twist your torso to the left, holding for a few seconds before switching sides. For a forward bend, stand up, and with your feet hip-width apart, bend at the hips and let your upper body hang forward, releasing tension in your back and shoulders. These simple movements can help release all that tension and make your flight more comfortable.

FAQs:

Q: How can I improve my chances of getting a better seat at the gate?
A: Arrive early and politely inquire about any available upgrades or seat changes.

Q: What should I do if I experience motion sickness during a flight?
A: Consider booking a seat over the wings, where motion is typically felt less, and bring motion sickness medication or natural remedies like ginger.

Q: Besides personal hygiene items, what else should I pack for cleanliness?
A: Carry disinfectant wipes to clean tray tables, armrests, and other commonly touched surfaces.

Q: How can I avoid feeling bloated during and after a long flight?
A: Opt for meals that are low in sodium to reduce water retention and discomfort.

Q: How can I minimize the effects of jet lag after a long flight?
A: Stay hydrated throughout the flight and adjust your sleep schedule before departure to align with your destination’s time zone. Exposure to natural light upon arrival can also help reset your body clock.

Q: How can I stay entertained during a long flight without draining my devices?
A: Bring a physical book or magazine, crossword puzzles, or a travel journal. Some airlines offer in-flight entertainment systems with a variety of movies, TV shows, and music.

Do you have any tips for handling a long flight? Enlighten us in the comments section below!