Who would have thought that spending twelve hours sitting down could be so exhausting? Long-haul flights are the downside of world travel for some people and a necessary evil for others due to work or family commitments. Doubly so for those of us who call Australia home.
Whether you find yourself bored, uncomfortable or hungry when you fly, this list of handy tips will help you to get through your next long-haul flight a tad easier.
1. EXERCISE BEFORE FLYING
By going for a run or fitting in a quick session at the gym before you leave, you can relax your body and heighten your chances of falling asleep for the majority of the flight. Make time for a shower in between so you’re fresh, calm, and sleepy by the time you board that big jet plane.
2. BRING LEGGINGS OR PJS
If you’re all about on dressing smartly to get through the airport or want to look stylish and put together as soon as you arrive, then at least bring a pair of comfy pants to change into on the flight so you can move and relax without unnecessary restriction.
3. PACK SOME SNACKS
Airplane food might not be to your taste, or maybe you just get hungry between meals. Pack some easy, non-messy, and mild-smelling snacks (carrot sticks, grapes, crackers, and pretzels are all good options) and you’ll never find yourself with a grumbling stomach mid-flight again.
4. BRING AN EMPTY WATER BOTTLE
You can’t bring big bottles of liquid through airport security but they will let you take an empty plastic bottle with you. Fill it up on the other side to stay fresh and hydrated, and avoid the crazy expense of airport drinks all at once.
5. TAKE A SMALL MOISTURISER
Pack a cheap, travel-sized tube of moisturiser in your hand luggage before your flight. Your skin will easily become dehydrated at the high altitudes so a couple of moisturiser applications will help you to feel more bright and lively when you arrive.
6. USE YOUR HAND SANITISER
Everyone knows that you’re more likely to get ill after a flight, but did you know that it isn’t anything to do with the recycled air? The extra chance of illness is simply because airplanes hang onto bacteria a little longer than the average spot so use hand sanitiser after eating and washing your hands to stay strong.
7. PURCHASE A SLEEP PILLOW
Sleep collars keep your head upright when you sleep to stop you getting a neck or backache and prevent you awkwardly falling onto your seat mate’s shoulder mid-flight. You can purchase them cheaply online and they’re worth it to help you arrive well-rested.
8. BRING SPARE SOCKS AND UNDERWEAR
Having a change of socks and undies can be the difference between arriving as a human and feeling like a swamp monster. They will also come in handy if your flight is delayed and you end up spending the night at the airport or a hotel before you fly.
You’ll never find yourself suffering through a long-haul flight again with these simple tips. Follow them carefully, pass them onto your travel buddies, and then simply relax and enjoy the ride. Safe travels!
“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.” – Mark Twain
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