Let’s face it: if you’re a traveller, long-haul flights are practically a rite of passage. Whether you’re jetting off to visit family in the UK, chasing the Northern Lights in Scandinavia, or finally ticking Machu Picchu off your bucket list, you’re going to be spending a fair chunk of time in the air.
And while the idea of soaring above the clouds sounds romantic, the reality is often a little less glamorous—think cramped seats, questionable meals, and the eternal struggle to get some decent shut-eye.
But don’t worry, fellow travellers! Seasoned globetrotters have shared some tips and tricks to help you not just survive, but actually enjoy your next marathon flight. So buckle up, pop on your compression socks, and let’s get you ready for takeoff!
1. Eat Before You Board (and Skip the Midnight Meal Service)
One of the most common mistakes people make is waiting for the in-flight meal. But as Serina Patel, a travel expert, points out, eating before you board means you can settle in and get some rest straight away.
No more waiting for the trolley to rattle down the aisle while your stomach grumbles! Plus, let’s be honest—airport food courts often have better options than what’s served at 35,000 feet.
If you do want to eat on board, consider pre-ordering a special meal (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.). Not only will you get served before everyone else, but you’ll also have a better chance of getting something fresh and tasty.
As Jessica Lockhart, who regularly flies between Australia and Canada, says: ‘You can eat and get to sleep sooner—crucial on overnight flights.’
2. Board Tired, Sleep Like a Baby
It might sound counterintuitive, but arriving at the airport a little sleep-deprived can actually help you nod off once you’re in your seat. Deepa Lakshmin swears by staying up the night before a flight—she packs last-minute, boards exhausted, and is out like a light before the safety demonstration is over.
While we don’t recommend pulling an all-nighter every time, adjusting your sleep schedule a day or two before your flight can help you sync up with your destination’s time zone and beat jet lag.
3. Move Your Body—Before and During the Flight
Sitting still for hours isn’t just uncomfortable; it can also be risky for your health. Sarah Stocking, a digital editor and Pilates enthusiast, always squeezes in a session before flying to help her body relax.
Even if Pilates isn’t your thing, a brisk walk around the terminal or some gentle stretching can do wonders. And don’t forget to move during the flight—get up, walk the aisles, and do some simple ankle circles and calf raises at your seat to keep your circulation flowing.
4. Pack Your Entertainment Arsenal
Long flights are the perfect opportunity to catch up on reading, binge-watch a new series, or finally tackle that crossword puzzle book you got for Christmas. Alexander Howard recommends preloading your Kindle or tablet with a mix of novels, guidebooks, and magazines.
Don’t rely solely on the in-flight entertainment system—sometimes it’s a bit hit-and-miss, and you don’t want to be stuck with nothing but reruns of old sitcoms.
Pro tip: Download your favourites before you leave home, as Wi-Fi in the sky can be patchy (and expensive!).
5. Comfort Is King: Dress and Pack Accordingly
Let’s talk about the real MVPs of long-haul travel: comfy clothes and clever accessories. Think loose layers, a cosy jumper, and slip-on shoes for easy trips to the loo. A good neck pillow (like the Turtl, which gets rave reviews), noise-cancelling headphones, and an eye mask can transform your seat into a mini sanctuary.
And don’t forget those compression socks—they’re not just for show; they help prevent swelling and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Bonus Tips for a Smoother Journey
Choose Your Seat Wisely
If you can, book an aisle seat for easier access to the loo and more room to stretch your legs. Some airlines allow you to select seats for free at check-in, so set a reminder!
Bring a Neck Pillow and Eye Mask
Comfort is key. A good neck pillow and a soft eye mask can make all the difference when you’re trying to sleep in an upright position.
Pack a Small Toiletries Kit
Toothbrush, toothpaste, face wipes, and moisturiser will help you feel human after a long flight.
Layer Up
Cabins can get chilly, so bring a light jumper or scarf. You can always use it as a pillow if you get too warm.
Long-haul flights might never be as comfortable as your favourite recliner, but with a little planning and the right mindset, they can be a lot more bearable—and maybe even enjoyable! Remember, the journey is part of the adventure.
Key Takeaways
- Boarding the plane ready for sleep, rather than a meal, can help you settle in and get some much-needed shut-eye sooner.
- Staying up the night before your flight might make it easier to fall asleep once on board, even if it isn’t the healthiest strategy.
- Doing a Pilates session before flying can help your body relax and prepare for the long journey ahead, whether you’re flying solo or with kids.
- Ordering a special meal in advance means you’ll usually be served first, letting you eat earlier and get to sleep more quickly—especially handy on overnight flights.
Have you got a tried-and-true tip for surviving long flights? Maybe a secret snack stash or a favourite travel pillow? Share your wisdom in the comments below—we’d love to hear your stories and advice!
