As someone who is constantly on the move, I know how hard it can be to handle long flights. The dry air, the uncomfortable sleep positions…it’s a whole experience, and not always a good one. Whether it is for your European dream summer, a bucket-list trip, or simply a long journey to see the people you love, with the right strategy, you can go from “Why did I book this?” to “I’m actually kind of enjoying it.”
Here is your ultimate guide to surviving long flights, based on my own tips and tricks:
Dress Like That Girl (With Comfort)
If you search “airport outfit inspo” on Pinterest or TikTok, you might get the typical and overly styled outfit. This, however, is not the time for that. Think: oversized hoodie or sweatshirt, with leggings or sweatpants. You want to be comfortable while still looking your best. You can always find pieces that make you feel put together without sacrificing comfort: discreet jewelry, a slicked-back bun, and your favorite sneakers.
Wear compression socks! Yes, they will probably make you feel like a grandma, but your body and legs will thank you. Also, make sure that every few hours, you get up to stretch and walk a little. This will help with circulation and reduce stiffness in your body.
Romanticize The Flight
Make sure to download your favorite comfort shows, bring your headphones, and your favorite playlists to make you feel like the main character — because you are. Have your own little “take off” song that you can listen to as the plane starts to lift gently into the clouds. My personal favorites are Let It Happen by Gracie Abrams and Given-Taken by Enhypen. If you like reading, bring a book that transports you, something that will keep you hooked, like Normal People by Sally Rooney or People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry. Better if the book matches your destination!
Planes are one of the few places you’re unreachable. Use this time to reflect and set intentions for you and your future self. Bring a little notebook with you so you can focus on writing about whatever it is that makes you feel like the main character, even if it’s just the song lyrics of what you are listening to. This will also help distract your mind if you tend to be a nervous flyer.
Help Your Skin Survive
Plane air is basically a dehydration machine, and even more if you do not drink enough water. Hydration is key! Drink water like it’s your job, even if it means standing up to go to the restroom many times during the flight. Your skin and body will thank you later.
Pack a mini skincare kit with the following: cleanser wipes, moisturizer, and lip balm. If it’s a day flight, make sure you are using an SPF as well, as UV rays are stronger inside an airplane at cruising altitude. You can also bring a mini hypochlorous acid spray to disinfect your face from all the stuffy airplane air. You do not need a 10-step skincare routine, just the essentials to keep your skin healthy.
It. Will. Be. Worth. It.
A few small choices can make a difference: bring an eye mask and neck pillow, and if you can, consider taking melatonin about an hour before you plan to sleep to help you rest more easily. There’s plenty more that I could add, but these main tips are my go-to for staying sane on long flights. It is normal that at some point you’ll be uncomfortable, and maybe even question your life choices. But then you’ll land, and whatever awaits you will remind you why you made the journey in the first place!