How to Survive a Long-Haul Flight: The Must-Know Tips and Tricks

Unless you're prepared to fork out on a business or first-class ticket (which, let's face it, most of us aren't), setting off on a long-haul flight isn't exactly appealing.

Between limited legroom, inevitable boredom, and difficulty sleeping, there are a plethora of reasons why many of us dread such journeys. While there's no way of avoiding them, we can do a few things to make the experience a little more pleasant.

If you struggle to endure the trials and tribulations of lengthy flights, this one's for you!

Invest in a Good-Quality Neck Pillow

There are some terrible neck pillows on the market. You can probably vouch for this if you've ever picked up a run-of-the-mill travel pillow.

Purchasing a decent pillow with proper neck support is one of the easiest things to do to make your flying experience more enjoyable. You don't need to break the bank, but it's worth shopping around and paying attention to the quality and shape of the product.

These days, the Trtl travel pillows have really taken off. Their unique design ensures your neck stays upright and prevents the endless head-bobbing we're all far too familiar with.

Choose Your Seat Carefully

If you're willing to spend a little more on your flight, you can pay an extra fee to secure the seat you want. For some of you, this might be the window seat, while others might prefer the aisle or a spot over the wing for additional legroom.

Wherever you feel more comfortable, it's worth booking ahead to avoid the cramped middle seat or the row nearest the toilets!

The price of reserving a seat can vary significantly between airlines, so it's important to consider your budget when making a reservation.

Bring Your Own Entertainment on Board

Many long-haul flights have an excellent selection of onboard entertainment, but it's not a given. 

Often, none of the movies available may appeal to you, or the lineup can be limited. If you're particularly unfortunate, you may get stuck with the one faulty screen on the plane.

No matter what airline you're traveling with, downloading plenty of movies, television shows, or podcasts onto your phone or tablet is always a good idea.

Stock up on Snacks

Similar to downloading your own entertainment, bringing your own snacks is a must for long-haul flights.

Thankfully, the standard of in-flight food has improved dramatically over the years, but it can be risky if you're a fussy eater or have strict dietary requirements. This tends to be more of an issue for passengers served last, as you may not have your pick of dishes depending on what everybody else chooses.

Easy-to-pack bites like nuts, protein bars, and trail mix are ideal, as they won't take up much room in your carry-on.

Use Noise-Canceling Headphones and an Eye Mask

Red-eye flights are generally pretty quiet after the food service, but daytime journeys can be much more unpredictable. Either way, there's no telling whether your flight will be calm or chaotic.

If it's the latter, noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask will be your saving grace. You may not need them, but it's always better to come prepared.

When you're determined to get some sleep, blocking any outside noise or light will help you to settle.

Put Your Essential Toiletries in Your Carry-on Bag

Many of us have well-established nighttime routines that go out the window when we board a plane. However, keeping your evening rituals in place can allow you to unwind, so it's useful to have your toiletries on hand.

Gather your toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, and other skincare products you typically use, and ensure they travel in your carry-on. Before you go to sleep, spend a few minutes freshening up in the toilet.

Once you return to your seat, you'll find it easier to switch off and get ready for bed.

Stay Hydrated

The inside of an airline is one of the driest places many of us will ever spend that much time in. We can do a few things to combat the unavoidable dehydration, which can make the flight super uncomfortable.

While advising passengers to drink plenty of liquids may seem obvious, few people bring sufficient water onboard. As we all know, water bottles in airports are notoriously expensive, so it's better to pack some empty reusable flasks and fill them up after security.

Other ways to stay hydrated include applying lip balms and moisturizers regularly and avoiding alcohol and caffeine during the flight.

Try to Adjust Your Sleeping Pattern

This one is definitely easier said than done, but it's well worth doing if your schedule allows it.

Research the time difference between where you're flying from and your destination, and try to plan the time you'll sleep around this.

For instance, if you land at night local time, hold off catching some shut-eye on the plane and wait until you've arrived.

Dress Comfortably

Finding comfortable clothes for flying is a non-negotiable for long-haul journeys. You'll thank yourself for ditching the jeans later!

If you want to look polished and put together in the airport or when you disembark, pack an extra set of comfy clothes to change into on the plane. A few minutes in the toilet is more than worth your comfort on a flight.

Move as Much as Possible

We've all been there: swollen ankles and stiff muscles on a flight are a nuisance, even on short routes.

Compression socks are a great addition to any packing list, but moving around the plane now and again can also do wonders for your circulation and overall comfort.

Better yet, you won't feel quite so tense by the time you land.

Make Your Long-Distance Journey More Bearable With These Tried and Tested Hacks

With a bit of luck, these measures will alleviate some of your concerns about any long journeys you have coming up. 

For a small additional cost or a little extra planning, you can hop on board your next flight with an easier mind.