10 tips for a long-haul flights
There’s something special about long-haul flights. It’s the chance to sit back, relax and forget about the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s an opportunity to experience a different culture, or simply enjoy peace and quiet.
But with long-haul flights comes the inevitable jet lag. So how do you make the most of your time in the air and arrive feeling refreshed?
Here are 10 tips for long-haul flights
1. Choose your seat wisely When booking your flight, take some time to consider your seating options. If you’re tall, you’ll want to avoid the bulkhead seats as they have limited legroom. And if you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s best to avoid a seat near the wing.
2. Dress comfortably You’ll be spending a lot of time in your seat, so make sure you’re wearing comfortable clothing. Loose-fitting clothes made from natural fabrics are ideal as they’ll help you to stay cool and avoid irritation.
3. Stay hydrated: Stay hydrated during a long-haul flight, as the dry cabin air can cause dehydration. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine as they can make dehydration worse.
4. Move around Sitting in the same position for hours can be uncomfortable and can increase your risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). So make sure you take a few minutes to walk up and down the aisle every hour or so.
5. Stretch your legs If you can’t walk around, there are some simple stretches you can do in your seat to keep your muscles from seizing up.
6. Sleep when you can If you’re struggling to sleep on the plane, try using an eye mask and earplugs to block out the light and noise. And if you’re still struggling, consider taking a sleeping pill. Just be sure to check with your doctor first.
7. Adjust to the time zone If you’re flying to a destination in a different time zone, it’s best to start adjusting to the new time before you even board the plane. A few days before your flight, start going to bed and waking up at the time you’ll need to when you’re at your destination.
8. Eat light meals Eating a heavy meal before your flight can make you feel sluggish, so it’s best to stick to light snacks and meals. You can try incorporating some melatonin after you finished eating. And be sure to stay away from gas-producing foods like beans and broccoli.
9. Avoid jet lag There are a few things you can do to avoid jet lag, like staying hydrated and getting enough sleep. But one of the best things you can do is to choose a flight that arrives in the morning. That way, you can make the most of your day and avoid the temptation to sleep all day.
10. Have a plan for when you land Once you’ve arrived at your destination, it’s important to have a plan for how you’re going to stay refreshed. If you can, try to avoid napping during the day so you can adjust to the new time zone more quickly. And be sure to get out and explore – getting some fresh air and exercise will do wonders for your energy levels.
With a little planning and preparation, long-haul flights can be survived – and even enjoyed. Follow these 10 tips and you’ll be sure to have a more pleasant experience on your next long-haul flight.