If you’re not able to get an upgrade to first or business class on a long haul flight, you should have a plan of action to survive a long flight. Even if you are able to get upgraded, there are things you can do to improve your flight experience.
Anytime I have to travel for 5 hours or more, I’m thinking ahead of my flight for ways to make the experience more comfortable. There are a number of things you can do to make long haul flights easier, and they range from preparing yourself physically before you leave, to bringing a few inexpensive items with you to enhance your comfort.
Purchase a Neck Pillow for Your Flight
While most international flights will provide you with a pillow, it’s usually encased in what feels like less than soft toilet paper. Not only that, but the material inside isn’t much better.
Buy a cheap, high quality Neck Pillow
Use an Eye Mask
Another great sleep hack on flights. Buy a COMFORTABLE eye mask
Invest in Ear Plugs
I wasn’t a fan of earplugs until I started living an apartment with a really loud upstairs neighbor. Now I don’t sleep without them, even if it’s completely silent. I’ve learned over time that the more you use them, the more comfortable they become and eventually you won’t even realize they’re there.
I use the Hearos Ear Plugs Xtreme Protection
(pictured right), which can cover up to 33db of noise. That’s the highest level I’ve seen earplugs sold in. Plus, the HEAROS are inexpensive. They really are a life saver to prevent against crying babies, loud passengers, music or simply block out engine noise.
Do Some Cardio, Stretch and Roll the Week Before Your Flight
You might not think you need to be in shape to survive a long haul flight, but it certainly helps. Cardio, whether it be basic aerobics or a 5 mile run, will improve blood flow and circulation. This is beneficial to your body if you’re going to be in a seated position for any lengthy period of time.
The same goes for stretching. Make sure your muscles are as loose as possible before boarding your flight. Remember, it takes time for muscles to lengthen and relax. Stretching right before you board will help, but take this a step further and begin stretching your leg, back, neck and shoulder muscles a few times a week before your flight.
Another great item that I use on a daily basis is a High-Density Round Foam Roller
. This is great to lengthen your spinal column, flush out toxins and bring fresh nutrients back into your joints.
Wear Comfortable Clothes That Also Look Good
Whenever I fly, I like to be casually fresh and comfortable. While wearing comfortable clothes will make you feel physically more comfortable, looking good in the process will give you a mental boost in confidence. When you look good, you feel good.
If you’re a guy, take a look at our most recommended kind of travel pants. They’re comfortable, stylish, moisture-whicking and wrinkle-free. Stuff them in your bag, wash them in a lake, put them back on and they’ll dry off unwrinkled. You can also visit the online store, be sure to use coupon code WINEDERLUST for 10% off your purchase.
Pack a Small Travel Kit
Always make sure you have some kind of small travel bag with some essentials packed into it. Whether that’s a simple sealable zip-lock baggy, or a canvas bathroom bag. Our top recommended (travel size) items to pack in your travel kit are below. Many of which can be found at major retailers, like CVS, Walgreens or Walmart.
- Deodorant
- Floss
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush
- A Small Comb or Brush
- Moisturizer
- Lip Balm
- Snacks (Sealed)
- Water (Sealed)
- Vitamin C (or Airborne)
- Hand Sanitizer
- One Pair of Clean Underwear
Bring a Change of Underwear
Consider bringing a an extra pair of underwear in your carry-on when you’re going to be on a plane for over 12 hours. Change quickly before you land and it will make the arrival experience a lot more comfortable. Plus, in the rare case that your checked baggage doesn’t make it with you, atleast you still have the essentials for the next day.
Keep Sanitary Wipes In Your Travel Kit
Bring travel-size, ultra-portable sanitary wipes (I usually carry Lysol Disinfecting Wipes, On the Go Travel Size
) with you on all of your flights. It’s no secret that planes can be incubators for the common cold virus & bacterial strains. Reduce the risk of catching something on your flight by wiping down your lap tray and arm rests on the flight as you settle in. It’s actually been lab tested that these areas can be some of the dirtiest in the world.
Bring Essential Vitamins With You
To enhance your immune system (and also give you more energy when you arrive at your destination), be sure to bring Vitamin C
and Vitamin D
and Zinc
with you. Take it a few hours before your flight or buy Airborne. Multi-Vitamins can
If you add Vitamin C to your travel bag, look for 1,000 mg.
My doctor recommends 1,000 mg daily if you are trying to get rid of a cold or if you have been exposed to one.
Bring Entertainment (iPad, Laptop, Books, Magazine, Journal)
Always make sure you have some way to entertain your brain on long haul flights. Whatever floats your boat… or in this case, flies your plane. For blogging purposes (even if there isn’t WiFi on board), I’m jotting down ideas. Apple iPad
or MacBook Air Laptop’s
can also be used to watch movies. Carriers such as Southwest now offer free TV as long as you have a device that has a video player. JetBlue and other carriers have TVs built right into the back seat headrests.
Reading is probably the best thing you can do if you ultimately want to sleep while flying. Smaller print helps to tire your eyes, while at the same time entertain your brain. You’re also cutting out the blue light from electronic devices. I’m currently reading “The Happiness of Pursuit” by Chris Guillebeau.
Bring a Portable Device Charger
Even though it’s 2016, there’s a good chance that some aircraft that operate long haul routes may have been built during the 1980’s. That said, they may not have device chargers or outlets that are accessible. With this in mind, buy a couple of portable device chargers and make sure you charge them the day before your flight. They also come in handy for travel in general when you’re on the move and don’t have time to wait by an outlet.
Sleep
For me, this is easier said than done. However, you should at least try to pull it off. Ease future jet lag by catching a few Z’s throughout your flight. If you’re a light sleeper, or don’t sleep well in a seated position, consider non-narcotic sleep aids like Melatonin and always keep them in your carry-on travel kit. Over the counter options like ZQuil and Unisom can also be used as needed. Also consider avoiding caffeine and alcohol if you want to sleep.
Some of us are lucky enough to be able to have a drink or a cup of coffee and still be able to doze off. If that’s not you, stick to water!