19 Genius Ways to Make Long Flights Less Painful
19 Genius Ways to Make Long Flights Less Painful
Long flights can be a real test of patience and comfort. Sitting in a cramped space for hours on end can take a toll on your body and mind. However, there are ways to make these lengthy journeys more bearable.
From choosing the right seat to packing essential items, implementing a few strategic practices can significantly enhance your flying experience. This guide offers 19 genius tips to help you handle long flights with ease and arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and relaxed.
1. Choose the Right Seat
Booking your flight ticket early gives you the advantage of selecting a preferred seat. Opt for a seat with extra legroom if you need more space to stretch your legs. Seats near the front of the plane are great for quicker disembarking. An aisle seat is especially handy if you anticipate needing frequent restroom visits or just want the freedom to stretch without disturbing your seatmates.
2. Dress Comfortably
Wear loose, breathable clothing when flying long distances. The cabin’s temperature can fluctuate, so dressing in layers allows you to adjust easily. Soft fabrics and relaxed fits not only keep you comfortable but also improve circulation during the flight.
3. Stay Hydrated
The air inside airplane cabins is incredibly dry, which can dehydrate you quickly. Drink plenty of water before and during your flight to stay hydrated. Avoiding alcohol and caffeine, which can exacerbate dehydration, is also a wise choice.
4. Pack Healthy Snacks
Airplane food isn’t always the healthiest option. Packing your own snacks, such as nuts, fresh fruits, and protein bars, can keep you energized and satisfied throughout the flight.
These healthier options are great for maintaining your energy levels without the added sugars and salts found in typical airplane meals.
5. Bring Noise-Canceling Headphones
Noise-canceling headphones are a traveler’s best friend. They help block out the ambient noise of the engines and cabin chatter, allowing you to sleep better or enjoy your entertainment without interruption.
6. Create a Sleep Kit
To enhance your chances of getting good rest, pack a travel pillow, an eye mask, and a lightweight blanket or shawl. These items mimic the comforts of home and can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
7. Move Around
Sitting in the same position for hours can lead to stiffness and poor blood circulation. Make it a point to walk around the cabin every few hours.
This movement not only stretches your legs but also promotes better blood flow, reducing the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
8. Do In-Seat Exercises
You don’t need to stand up to stay active. Perform simple exercises like ankle circles, foot pumps, and shoulder rolls right in your seat. These movements help maintain blood circulation and can also relieve muscle tension.
9. Bring Entertainment
Prepare for periods when you’re not sleeping by loading your electronic devices with movies, TV shows, books, podcasts, and music. Having a variety of entertainment options helps pass the time and keeps you from feeling bored.
10. Use a Tablet or E-Reader
Instead of carrying multiple books or magazines, use a tablet or e-reader. These devices are lighter and can store thousands of books, magazines, and documents, allowing you to switch between reading materials with ease.
11. Charge Devices Fully
Before you head to the airport, make sure all your electronic devices are fully charged. Pack a portable charger as a backup to keep your devices powered throughout the flight, ensuring continuous entertainment and connectivity. Note that these days, some planes are equipped with plugs where you can charge your devices!
12. Download Offline Content
Relying on in-flight entertainment can be risky as it may not always cater to your tastes or work properly. This is especially true depending on the airline you chose.
Some have great movies and games options while some have very limited offers, including in other languages. Download your favorite shows, movies, and books before the flight, ensuring access to your preferred entertainment, regardless of onboard offerings.
13. Stay Organized
An organized travel pouch or bag can save you a lot of hassles during your flight. Keep essentials such as your passport, boarding pass, and chargers in one accessible place. This way, you won’t need to rummage through your luggage at inconvenient times.
14. Practice Good Posture
Maintaining good posture while seated helps reduce physical stress on your body. Sit upright with your back straight and feet flat on the floor. This position minimizes strain on your back and legs, making your flight more comfortable.
15. Stay Fresh
Pack a small bag with travel-sized toiletries like a toothbrush, toothpaste, face wipes, and deodorant. Freshening up during the flight can make a big difference in how you feel upon arrival.
16. Adjust to the Time Zone
If you’re crossing time zones, start adjusting your sleep schedule a few days before the flight. This gradual change can help reduce the effects of jet lag, making it easier for you to adapt to the new time zone upon arrival.
17. Use Medications Wisely
For those who struggle to sleep on planes, consider sleep aids or anti-anxiety medications. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before your trip to discuss safe options and proper dosages.
18. Stay Calm with Breathing Exercises
Long flights can be stressful. Engage in deep breathing or meditation to keep yourself calm and relaxed. These techniques can help manage anxiety and improve your overall travel experience.
19. Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
After passing through security, fill up a reusable water bottle. This ensures that you have water available whenever you need it, helping you stay hydrated without waiting for cabin service.
By following these tips, you can make your long-distance flights more comfortable and enjoyable. Whether it’s your first time flying long distances or you’re a seasoned traveler, these strategies are effective in creating a more pleasant journey.
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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.