Travelers, buckle up! If you’re preparing to take your first long-haul flight, you might be a little nervous about the long journey ahead.
For many people, one of the worst parts of embarking on an international trip is the first long plane ride. Between tedious airport waits, unsettling turbulence, and uncomfortable airplane seats, flying can sometimes feel like a daunting task.
But remember, with the right knowledge, your journey can be as memorable as the destination itself.
To help you be fully prepared for your upcoming trip, the Narcity Travel team has compiled a list of our favorite must-know travel tips that apply to all long-haul flights.
Before you fasten your seatbelts, pack your bags, and set off on your upcoming journey, check out these essential long-distance travel tips to make your journey as smooth as possible.
Dress comfortably
A long-distance flight is like a marathon in the sky, so it’s important to dress appropriately.
Swap tight waistbands, tight shirts, and stiff jeans for cozy, comfortable, and breathable clothing. Also, don’t forget to bring layers of clothing so you can adapt to the changing cabin temperature during the flight.
To keep you comfortable and snug throughout your trip, consider wearing your favorite sweater, fluffy socks, and loose-fitting pants, and don’t forget to pick out some comfortable shoes for walking around the airport.
If you really want to prioritize style, consider bringing a second outfit to change into before you land or when you arrive at your destination airport. If you’re on a boat for a long time, changing clothes can make you feel sick. Don’t hesitate to get her a second sweater or shirt if needed.
Some accessories that Narcity’s travel team highly recommends include eye masks to block out light and make it easier to sleep on the plane, and slippers or slides to wear during the flight so you don’t end up as one of the barefoot passengers wandering around.
If you can only bring one accessory, bring a scarf: you can snuggle up to keep warm, shade your eyes from the light, use it as a blanket or pillow, or use it when you don’t want to cover your face while chatting with the passenger next to you.
Please bring your own snacks
Most long-haul flights have some sort of meal service or snack option, but if you’re going to be sitting around for hours on end, it doesn’t hurt to bring your own.
In-flight meals can be hit or miss, and hunger can strike at an inopportune time. Of course, you can’t choose when meal service starts, so if your stomach can’t co-incide with your scheduled meals, packing your own snacks can help stave off hunger pangs.
Packing a few of your favorite travel snacks, like nuts, granola bars, chocolate, and fruit, will help stave off hunger and give you the energy you need during the flight — plus, give you something to do when you’re super bored.
Please stay hydrated
Dry air in airplane cabins can severely inhibit hydration, leading to low energy, fatigue, and irritability, and can even cause headaches and dry skin.
To prevent this, drink as much water as possible during the flight. Bring a large, empty water bottle with you when you go through security and fill it up before boarding so you can sip on small sips when the flight attendants aren’t handing out drinks.
Staying hydrated will also help prevent jet lag so you can land feeling ready to explore.
Which brings me to my next point…
Choose the right seat
While budget may be a priority for short-haul flights, for very long flights it may be worth paying a few extra fees.
For example, if you’re going to be sitting on a plane for hours, you’ll want to be comfortable and in the type of seat you prefer.
If you’re someone who drinks a lot of water (good job!), you might want to choose an aisle seat so you can take regular bathroom breaks without worrying about having to ask the person next to you to move.
People who want more legroom or want to move around and stretch their legs during the flight may prefer an aisle seat.
Alternatively, if you have an unusually strong bladder or are a heavy sleeper who doesn’t want to be disturbed by those around you going to the bathroom, you might want to choose a window seat where you won’t be disturbed.
Skyscanner recommends that if you want to avoid crying children, avoid the front of the plane. This is where babies and their parents often sit on international flights.
Either way, if you’re traveling long distances, it’s probably worth paying for your preferred seating option.
Bring your own entertainment
Long journeys can get boring, so make sure you have a variety of entertainment options on hand.
Most long-haul flights offer some type of in-flight entertainment, but a mix of unique content can keep you busy and engaged throughout the flight.
Load movies, TV shows, e-books, and podcasts onto your phone, iPad, tablet, or e-reader. Don’t forget to bring a charger in case the battery dies.
Don’t just think about the screen: notebooks, diaries and coloring books are great ways to get your creativity in the air, and you can always listen to music to give your eyes a rest.
It’s also worth bringing your own headphones if possible, as free airplane headphones or earbuds are cheap and often don’t block out in-flight noise.
Please stretch it out
Sitting for long periods of time can cause discomfort. Relieve stiffness and increase circulation with easy, gentle stretches you can do while seated.
Rolling your ankles, stretching your neck, and rolling your shoulders can be refreshing, and if it’s safe, don’t be afraid to take a walk around the cabin.
Experts recommend getting up every two hours during your flight, and while you may not need to go anywhere in particular, moving around can be extremely beneficial.
Choose your airline wisely
Choosing the right airline for your long-haul flight is an important decision that can have a big impact on your overall travel experience, and in some cases, there can be a big difference between a good long-haul airline and a bad one.
Choosing your airline carefully can make your trip more comfortable, less stressful and more enjoyable. Factors like seat comfort, in-flight entertainment, food quality, service and even legroom can vary widely between airlines.
Doing your research and choosing a mover that suits your priorities and preferences will ensure your time spent on the road goes as smoothly as possible and leaves you with a positive vibe when you arrive.
Bring a self-care kit
After hours on a muggy flight with strangers, you’re bound to feel a bit sluggish and gross.
Mini self-care kits containing items like mints, toothbrushes, combs, moisturizer, lip balm, face wipes and hand sanitizer will help you feel clean, fresh and hydrated before disembarking.
Not only will you look and feel better, but you’ll also have a new energy boost that will carry you all the way to the airport where you arrive.
enjoy the ride
In the rush of leaving the house and heading to your destination, it’s easy to forget to take your time and enjoy the journey itself.
A long-haul flight is a great opportunity to disconnect from everyday life, so turn off your cell phone coverage, relax and enjoy yourself.
Whether you’re finally watching that long-awaited movie or binging on a book you never had a chance to finish, try to think of your flight as “bonus time” rather than just a chore.
bon voyage!
Before you head out, check out our responsible travel guide to stay informed, adventure safely, smartly, and above all, respectfully.
