Traveling into another country is an exciting adventure. The only downside of this is the long-haul flight. Staying crammed in a seat for at least six hours can be incredibly boring, and it’s easy to get edgy.
Fortunately, there are ways on how you can stay sane and actually enjoy the long-haul flight on your way to your travel destination. Here are seven ways how you can do that.
“On long haul flights I always drink loads and loads of water and eat light and healthy food.” — Lisa Snowdon
Travel on business or first class
Yes, business or first class airline tickets are more expensive for a good reason. For starters, one has a relatively longer leg room, which will be good to help you stretch and not feel too cramped up during your flight. Some major airlines provide actual beds to people traveling with these kinds of tickets. This gives you the chance to get a good night’s sleep.
Choose connecting flights
Connecting flights give you the chance to actually step off the plane and do a little bit of walking (and running) as you make it to your next flight. It would also give you a chance to catch up on making some important phone calls or load up on some munchies to take with you onboard.
Store your hand carry in the compartment
The last thing you’ll need on a long-haul flight is cramming up your leg room. If you’re bringing any hand carry luggage with you, make sure that you store them in the compartments overhead. Your legs and feet will thank you for it.
Wear loose and comfortable clothing
When traveling on a long-haul flight, wearing loose clothing does a whole lot more than just making you feel comfy. According to the National Institute of Health, travelers that go on long-haul flights are more likely to develop a condition called Deep Vein Thrombosis (formation of blood clots) than someone wearing extremely tight jeans and a corset every single day. This is not only painful but can also be life-threatening.
Keep caffeine to a minimum
Yes, you might be treated to a never-ending supply of brewed coffee during your long-haul flight. However, try to resist the temptation of indulging and keep this at a minimum. Besides making sleeping harder than it already is on the plane, taking huge quantities of caffeine can easily make you feel dehydrated.
Start adjusting your body while on the plane
Before hopping onboard the plane, make sure that you adjust your watch and clock on your phone to the actual time in your destination country. Also, try to get some sleep when it’s around your usual bedtime. This will help you get rid of jetlag more easily. If you’re too excited to sleep, then just recline (or lie down), wear an eye mask to make things darker for you, and listen to some relaxing music.
Keep all your valuables close to you
Sad, but true, there are a few passengers on the long-haul flight that actually wait for you to sleep so that they can get hold of your valuables and documents. When traveling long distances, make it a point to keep these documents and valuables on you to minimize the risk.
