Flying somewhere new is exciting, but long haul flights can take quite a toll on your sanity. None of us enjoy being stuck in a metal box for hours on end. You wake up, after what felt like a really long nap, you’re sweating, yet freezing cold, you look at the clock – and you’ve still got at least 5 hours to go…not fun. And you probably resemble something off the TV show The Walking Dead. As a study abroad student, long haul flights have become part of life, but I’ve learned now how to deal with them. Here’s our survival guide to long haul flying to help get you through it, and hopefully make your flight more enjoyable, and far less traumatic!
Pack Right
Packing the right stuff is key for travelling. Make a plan of what you DO need rather than what you might need, and you’ll be set. Make sure your carry-on is big enough to fit the essentials, but without going over the baggage limit.
Feelin’ Fresh
Do yourself (and the guy sat next to you) a favour and bring some travel-sized toiletries on board such as deodorant and cleansing wipes. You’ll feel just as fresh after the flight as you did before it.
Drink plenty & keep moving
It’s so easy to get really dehydrated when you’ve been sitting on a flight for several hours, 1000’s of miles high in the sky, so make sure you take full advantage of the free drinks and water on your flight. Also, to avoid feeling like you cannot actually move, get up every so often and have a wander up and down the aisles.
Sleep often!
We’ve all been there: your eyes are just closing, you’re almost asleep, when suddenly the person next to you loudly snores, inappropriately rests their head on your shoulder, or something else to annoy you which means you’re not getting any rest tonight. It isn’t the easiest to sleep while flying, but it is doable. Bring a pillow onboard, or even an eye mask if you’re not provided with one. Also, it’s a good idea to set the time on your phone to the local time in your destination – get used to the new time zone early to avoid that dreaded jet lag.
Get comfortable
A mistake made so many times before – it’s always best to opt for comfy, loose fitting clothing over the new shorts you just bought, even if they do look awesome. Perhaps go for some stretchy leggings instead, and bring something warm too. Planes get really cold when you’ve been sitting on one all day! You can thank me later.
In-flight entertainment
International flights usually have a huge choice of free movies and radio stations to listen to, but it’s still a good idea to bring along your own entertainment too. Come prepared with your fully charged devices, a book, your phone or whatever else will help you pass the time.
And of course, don’t forget your passport
Edited by Toni Moy(Picture Sources: Huffington Post, Tumblr, Pinterest)