sean.blunk Tips and Tricks for a Comfortable Journey
What’s up, fellow travelers? Are you ready to take on the challenge of surviving a long-haul flight? Well, whether you like it or not, you’re probably gonna have to take one at some point. But don’t worry, I’ve got some tips and tricks to help you survive and maybe even enjoy the journey.
Long-Haul Flight Prep
First off, let’s talk about pre-flight prep. Don’t just settle for any old seat on the plane. No way, Jose. Do your research and pick the best seat for your needs. Plane tickets from the United States to an international destination can be quite pricey, especially depending on the type of seat you purchase. Need to stretch your legs? Pick an aisle seat. Wanna avoid crying, babies? Choose a seat near the front. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, splurge on a first-class seat (if you can afford it, that is).
Find the Perfect Seat
Alrighty, folks, let’s talk about the different types of cabin classes on international flights. Don’t worry, you don’t have to be a millionaire to fly in style, but you might have to sell a kidney or two.
- First up, we have Economy Class. This is the peasant class of flying. The seats are cramped, the legroom is non-existent, and the food is barely edible. But hey, at least you’re not sitting on the wing, right?
- Next up, we have Premium Economy Class. This is where the cool kids hang out. You get more legroom, wider seats, and some fancy features like a personal entertainment screen and a footrest. It’s like upgrading from a dorm room to a studio apartment – still not luxurious, but definitely an improvement. This is typically not a huge increase in price from standard Economy, so this is a location I would recommend shelling out a few more $$$ for.
- And finally (I say finally because we have not been lucky enough to do first class), we have Business Class. This is where the rich and famous fly. Business Class seats are like mini hotel rooms in the sky. You get a fully lie-flat seat, personal storage, and privacy dividers. It’s like having your own private jet, except you have to share it with a bunch of other fancy people.
Attire for Long-Haul Flights
Next up, clothing. Listen, I know you want to look cute for that Instagram pic but trust me, comfort is key. You’re gonna be sitting for hours on end, so dress in layers and wear comfy/ easily slip-on/off shoes. I would recommend the following outfit for long-haul flights.
For the female traveler:
- Athletic leggings (yoga or running) – these will offer comfort and flexibility, plus if you find some compression ones that will help with your circulation and potential bloating on the flight. My fave are Oasis PureLuxe by Fabletics.
- Loose fitting top – something breathable and non-restricting
- Sweatshirt – let’s face it being 30,000 ft in the air can bring cool temps especially if you are traveling over the ocean and at night.
- Socks – I would recommend some fuzzy socks to help keep your feet warm
- Tennie shoes or some type of slip-on shoe with closed toe and heel – why am I so descriptive on this? Well if you have ever had to run through an airport in sandals or flip-flops you would not recommend wearing those. I would recommend either a good pair of 574 New Balance or Hey Dudes.
For the male traveler:
- Loose fitting shirt – something breathable and non-restricting
- Sweatshirt
- Athletics pants/shorts would be highly recommended but I know this world is limited so a comfy pair of jeans will work too.
- Comfortable socks
- And the same recommendation on footwear – 574 New Balance or Hey Dudes – I guess you can say my hubs and I are matchy-matchy when it comes to this department.
You might find several posts that recommend you do not take off your shoes during long-haul flights and while I mostly agree with that, there is nothing wrong if you slip your shoes off as long as you remain in your seat. Please for the love of all the pizza in the world do not walk barefoot (or just in socks) around the plane and especially not in the bathroom… that is just yuk!
** If you’re worried about your appearance, just bring a change of clothes to switch into right before you land. Easy peasy.**
How to Pack
Now, let’s talk about packing, this could be the biggest key to surviving long-haul flights. Don’t be that person who brings a massive carry-on bag that won’t fit in the overhead compartment. Pack light and bring only the essentials. I often have to travel with my laptop for work, so my carry-on bag is usually my backpack which is an Ogio. These are incredibly sturdy and comfortable to carry. Below are some items I recommend packing in whatever carry-on you choose.
Carry-on items essentials:
- Computer (if you must)
- Charging cords for laptops, tablet, cell phones, & power banks
- A couple of changes of underwear & socks
- Medicine (pain relievers, sleep aids, & prescriptions)
- Hand/face/body lotion – flying is dehydrating
- Kindle (don’t pack books)
- Headphones/earplugs
- Snacks
- Water bottle
If you can get away with fitting 1-2 changes of clothes (not just underwear and socks) then I would highly recommend that. You don’t want to reach your final destination but your checked luggage did not.
During the flight, you’re gonna want to get as comfortable as possible. Bust out that neck pillow, put on some noise-canceling headphones, and settle in for the long haul. And don’t forget to bring some entertainment, whether it’s a book, a movie, or a podcast. Inflight entertainment has definitely improved over the years. So chances are you might be able to catch some new movie release, binge that series you’ve been putting off, or listen to music. And if all else fails, you can always try striking up a conversation with your seatmate (if they seem friendly, that is).
Food/Drink
Now, let’s talk about food and drink. Airplane food gets a bad rap, but it’s not all bad. One thing to note though is that a lot of the food contains high amounts of sodium which will dehydrate you so ensure you drink plenty of water/electrolytes. I’ll be completely honest, I am a picky eater so it makes plane meals kind of tricky so if you fall into that category or have certain diet restrictions pack a few snack items that will help you get through the flight. Just make sure to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Bring a refillable water bottle and fill it up before you board. Trust me, a bag of Goldfish crackers can make all the difference.
If you take an evening flight, the airlines (well at least American Airlines, British Airways, & Delta) tend to overfeed you. You don’t have to accept the meal service or only take a portion of it. I would highly recommend the dessert though… that has always been top-notch!
Jet Lag
And finally, jet lag. Ugh, jet lag is the worst. But there are some things you can do to minimize its effects. Try to adjust to your destination’s time zone before you even leave home. And once you’re on the plane, try to sleep if it’s nighttime at your destination. And when you land, get outside and get some sunlight to help reset your body clock. I love overnight flights. This allows you to catch some zzzs and then when you get to your destination, just go! Get out and get that aforementioned sunshine and have a “normal” day. This will help reset your sleep clock the quickest to your destination’s time zone.
Alrighty, folks, that’s it for my tips and tricks for surviving long-haul flights. Remember, it’s all about being comfortable and prepared. So grab your neck pillow, pack some snacks, and get ready for a (relatively) comfortable journey. Happy travels!