Making Long-Haul Flights Easier in 2024

James Dent
James Dent
Last Updated: 12 December 2023

Long-haul flights can be a challenging experience, but with a little planning and preparation, you can make them more comfortable and enjoyable. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your next long-haul flight:

Choose the Right Seat

The right seat can make a big difference in your comfort level. Consider these factors when choosing your seat:

  • Legroom: If you’re tall or have long legs, choose a seat with extra legroom, such as a bulkhead seat or an exit row seat.
  • Noise: If you’re sensitive to noise, choose a seat away from the galley or lavatories.
  • Amenities: Some seats have additional amenities, such as power outlets or personal TV screens.
Ultra Long Haul

Dress Strategically

The air on long-haul flights can be dry and cold, so it’s important to dress in layers. Bring comfortable clothes that you can easily remove or add as needed. Avoid tight-fitting clothing, as it can restrict your movement and make you feel uncomfortable.

Bring Snacks

The food on long-haul flights is often not very healthy or appealing. To avoid getting hungry or feeling sick, bring your own snacks. Pack healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and yoghurt. Avoid sugary snacks and drinks, as they can dehydrate you and make you feel worse.

Power Up Your Devices

Long-haul flights can be boring, so it’s important to have plenty of things to do to pass the time. Bring your laptop, tablet, or e-reader to watch movies, read books, or listen to music. Don’t forget to pack a charger so you can keep your devices powered up.

You may also want to invest in a portable charger or backup power cell. These can be quite small, and extend your available battery life through and even beyond the flight time.

Reset Your Watch

Set your watch to your destination time as soon as you board the plane. This will help you adjust to jet lag more quickly.

Hydrate

It’s important to stay hydrated on long-haul flights, as the air is dry and can dehydrate you. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and sugary drinks.

Sleep

Getting enough sleep on a long-haul flight can be difficult, but it’s important to try to get some rest. Bring a travel pillow and eye mask to help you sleep. If you’re having trouble falling asleep, try listening to calming music or reading a book.

Don’t forget to read our Top Tips for Handling Jet Lag.

Plan Entertainment

Having plenty of entertainment options can help you pass the time on a long-haul flight. Bring books, magazines, or downloaded movies and TV shows. You can also download games or apps to your phone or tablet.

Not only will this entertain you in the moment, but the anticipation of it will help to speed the trip along, giving you something on board the plane to look forward to.

Move Around

Getting up and moving around every hour can help to prevent blood clots. Take a walk up and down the aisle, do some stretches, or do some simple exercises in your seat.

By following these tips, you can make your next long-haul flight more comfortable and enjoyable.

Additional Tips for 2024

In addition to the tips above, here are a few additional things to keep in mind for 2024:

  • Wear a mask: Masks are still required on most airlines, so be sure to bring one with you.
  • Be prepared for security delays: Security lines can be longer than usual, so give yourself plenty of time to get through security.
  • Download your boarding pass: You can download your boarding pass to your phone or tablet, which can save you time at the airport.
  • Use a mobile boarding pass scanner: Many airports have mobile boarding pass scanners, which can save you time at the gate.
  • Be aware of your surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables close at hand.
  • Stay informed: Check the airline’s website or app for the latest travel information.

By following these tips, you can make your next long-haul flight a breeze.

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