Long-haul flights to and from Asia can be an exciting, but also challenging, travel experience. With flight durations often exceeding 10 hours, it’s essential to plan ahead to make the journey as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your long-haul flight is as enjoyable as possible:
1. Choose Your Seat Wisely
- Window Seat: If you’re someone who likes to sleep, a window seat will provide you with something to lean against and avoid being disturbed by other passengers.
- Aisle Seat: If you plan on getting up frequently to stretch your legs, visit the restroom, or just move around, an aisle seat will be your best bet.
- Seat Selection: When booking, try to select your seat early (either through the airline’s website or app) to ensure you’re happy with your placement. Consider exit rows for extra legroom, but be mindful that these might not recline.
2. Dress Comfortably
- Loose, Breathable Clothing: Avoid tight clothes that may restrict circulation, and opt for loose, comfortable layers to account for changing temperatures.
- Compression Socks: These can help reduce swelling and improve circulation, especially during long flights.
- Slip-On Shoes: Wearing shoes that are easy to remove for comfort during the flight is a good idea, as you’ll want to get cozy without worrying about bending down to tie your shoes.
3. Stay Hydrated
- Drink Water: Airplane cabins tend to be quite dry, which can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the flight to stay hydrated and minimize jet lag symptoms.
- Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: While it might seem tempting to have a cup of coffee or a cocktail, both caffeine and alcohol can dehydrate you and disrupt your sleep patterns.
4. Bring Snacks
- Healthy Snacks: Pack some nutritious, light snacks such as nuts, fruits, granola bars, or crackers to keep hunger at bay. These can help you stay energized throughout the flight.
- Avoid Heavy or Gassy Foods: Avoid foods that might cause bloating or discomfort, as long-haul flights can exacerbate these issues due to limited space.
5. Bring Entertainment
- Books, Magazines, or E-Readers: Bring something to keep your mind engaged, such as a good book or magazines. Many airlines provide in-flight entertainment, but it’s always a good idea to have your own options, especially on older planes.
- Movies and Music: Download movies, podcasts, or music to your devices before the flight. This will ensure you have plenty of entertainment even if the in-flight options are limited.
6. Pack Essential Comfort Items
- Neck Pillow and Blanket: A neck pillow can help prevent discomfort while trying to sleep, and bringing a blanket or shawl will keep you warm during the flight.
- Eye Mask and Earplugs: These can help block out light and noise, creating a more conducive environment for sleep.
- Moisturizer and Lip Balm: The dry air in the cabin can dry out your skin and lips, so it’s important to apply moisturizer and lip balm regularly to stay comfortable.
- Hand Sanitizer and Wipes: Airplanes can be a breeding ground for germs, so it’s always good to have some hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes to clean your hands and surfaces around you.
7. Stretch and Move Around
- Avoid Stiffness: Take short walks around the cabin every few hours to prevent stiffness and reduce your risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Simple leg stretches and ankle rolls can also help keep your blood flowing.
- Do Seated Exercises: If getting up is not an option, try seated exercises like ankle rotations, foot pumps, and stretching your arms above your head to relieve tension.
8. Sleep Smart
- Set Your Watch to Destination Time: Adjust your watch to your destination’s time zone before boarding, and try to sleep during the “night” hours based on that time zone to reduce jet lag.
- Use Sleep Aids Sparingly: If you find it hard to sleep on planes, you can consider using sleep aids like melatonin or over-the-counter sleep medications. However, consult your doctor before taking any medication or supplement to ensure it’s right for you.
- Recline Your Seat: If you can, recline your seat to a more comfortable position, but be mindful of the person behind you. If they are eating or using a tray, it’s best to wait before reclining.
9. Take Care of Your Skin
- Hydrating Face Mist: Dry cabin air can leave your skin feeling dehydrated. A hydrating mist can keep your skin refreshed and feeling better throughout the flight.
- Avoid Heavy Makeup: Consider going makeup-free or applying only a light layer. The dry air and long hours can cause your makeup to become uneven or uncomfortable.
10. Manage Jet Lag
- Sleep Before the Flight: Arriving well-rested will help you handle the long flight better, even if you have to stay awake during parts of the journey.
- Get Sunlight on Arrival: Once you arrive, try to get natural sunlight during the day to reset your body’s internal clock and reduce the impact of jet lag.
- Eat Light on Arrival: Avoid heavy meals on arrival, as this can further disrupt your body’s rhythm.
11. Plan Your Arrival
- Airport Transfers: Have your transportation from the airport planned ahead of time to avoid the stress of figuring out logistics after a long flight.
- Documents Ready: Have your passport, visa (if necessary), and other arrival documents readily accessible when you land to avoid unnecessary delays.
12. Keep Valuables and Essentials in Your Carry-On
- Carry-On Essentials: Always keep important items like your passport, phone, medications, and electronics in your carry-on bag. This ensures you can access them easily without the hassle of reaching for checked baggage.