8 tips for long-haul flights
Long flights should be well prepared so that you have a comfortable journey that doesn’t put unnecessary strain on your skin or nerves. We have therefore compiled the 8 best tips for you so that you arrive at your destination feeling relaxed.
1. the right care
There are a few essentials that you should always have in your make-up bag when you’re on a long flight.
The most important thing is a moisturizing cream, preferably in travel size, so that it also makes it onto the plane. This is because many people’s skin tends to dry out and become irritated on the plane. This can be quickly remedied. A lip balm ensures that the lips do not become chapped. To feel comfortable and fresh, it is advisable to take a toothbrush and a small tube of toothpaste with you. Deodorant and a small towel are also always a good idea for longer flights. If you like, you can take a small bottle of thermal water to cool off in between. Contact lens wearers should never forget their eye drops at home – your eyesight will thank you for it. Because irritated eyes always have problems reading or following a series in a relaxed manner.
2. choose suitable clothing
The longer a trip lasts, the more comfortable the clothing should be. A classic pair of jogging bottoms in combination with a sweater is ideal for keeping you warm during the long flight. A scarf is also a good idea, as some people tend to catch a cold on the plane as the air is often cold and dry. If you don’t want to take a sweater, you can always put the scarf around your shoulders to escape the cold breeze. Men are best advised to pack a cardigan, which can also be wrapped around the neck and shoulders when it gets cooler. A pair of thick socks will keep your feet warm if you don’t want to leave your shoes on all the time. The only important thing is that you don’t sit on the plane with bare feet, because no passenger finds that pleasant. If you suffer from swollen feet and legs on the plane, it is best to pack a pair of support tights.
3. choosing the right seat
Some swear by the window seat, others prefer to make themselves comfortable in the aisle. Whichever type of seat you prefer, it’s best to find your ideal spot in advance.
So one tip is to check in online. You log in with your name and booking number, choose a seat, receive your boarding pass to save it on your smartphone or print it out and can queue at check-in at the airport, which is usually shorter. Seat selection is free of charge with most airlines. Online check-in is usually possible 24 hours before departure.
Pro tip 1: If you are already on the plane and hear the announcement “Boarding complete”, you can also sit in a completely empty row if these seats are free. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a lot more space for your long-haul flight!
Pro tip 2: Get on the plane last. It’s definitely more relaxed than fighting with the others for pole position and you get the chance to upgrade to a higher class. If there are still seats available, you will be informed immediately. If, on the other hand, there is still a whole row free (see above), you can go straight for it before the other passengers realize that there are still seats available.
4. don’t forget to eat and drink
Vegetarians, vegans and allergy sufferers in particular should make use of the option to order special meals before the long-haul flight. This can usually be done via the airline’s website.
Another advantage: you get your food on the plane before everyone else. Water is normally provided by all airlines. However, you can also go through security with an empty bottle and fill it up for the journey. To keep your circulation going and arrive fresh at your destination, you should drink enough during the journey. It is also advisable to take small snacks with you. Especially if you know that you won’t get full from the portions on the plane. Dried fruit, nuts, muesli bars, cookies and crackers are ideal for this. But bananas, apples and pears are also good snacks for in between meals. Sandwiches are also no problem. Only with liquids such as yogurt do the guidelines of 10 x 100 milliliters apply again.
5. entertainment for the best entertainment above the clouds
Airlines offer an extensive entertainment program on long-haul flights. But to make sure you get your money’s worth, it can’t hurt to take a good book with you or download your favorite film to your cell phone. Sometimes you just want to keep watching the series that has already got you hooked. Platforms such as Netflix offer download functions so that you can watch your favorites offline on your laptop and the like. The situation is similar with some podcast platforms.
Important: Don’t forget the charger – after all, you need a lot of power for proper binge watching.
6. movement, movement, movement
To reduce the risk of thrombosis, you should get up from your seat once an hour and move around a bit. A walk on the plane – something new every now and then. You can also do something while seated, such as rotating your feet and shoulders. If you have got a seat further back in the plane, you can stand in the aisle for a while and do some stretching exercises if necessary. There is usually enough space in the galley after the meal is finished. Make sure you do not stand in the way of the staff. If you are not sure, simply ask if you can stretch a little there.
The advantage of this is that you often meet people who have exactly the same thing in mind and simply need some exercise for their bodies.
7. suitable sleeping utensils
Many people in a small space rarely have exactly the same habits, let alone the same rhythm. It is therefore a good idea to have at least these three items within easy reach: Earplugs, a sleep mask and a (neck) pillow. Then nothing should stand in the way of a good night’s sleep or a nap. Some people also swear by light sleeping pills, but you should discuss this with your doctor beforehand.
8. book a night flight
Last practical tip: If you have the option, you should book an overnight flight. This way you can literally sleep through the journey and arrive at your destination feeling wonderfully rested. What’s more, in most cases direct flights are offered at night, with no need to change planes and no long waiting times. Not only easy on the body, but also on the environment. Why miss out on this little extra when it’s so easy!
What needs to go in your hand luggage?
Checklist for hand luggage:
- Empty bottle for water
- Scarf, shawl, sweater, warm socks
- Fresh fruit and other snacks
- Entertainment program: maps, e-book reader, book, tablet
- Headphones
- Charging cable for all devices
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, cream and deodorant
- Nasal spray
- Pillow, bolster, earplugs and sleep mask
It’s best to pack things as you need them. What you need immediately after take-off should therefore be as far up as possible.