7 Expert Tips for Enjoying Long Flights
They are tiring, uncomfortable, and often unbearable if some basic measures are not taken in advance. However, a little pre-flight preparation and essential tips for an efficient in-flight experience will let you have a comfortable and enjoyable flight.
Here are seven first-hand tips that can help you get the most of such long periods of flight time:
Plan Ahead
First of all, one should always prepare for traveling by air well in advance and eliminate stress factors, if any. First, try to secure a preferred position for the flight, depending on comfort, whether you want an aisle seat to move around more freely or a window seat since it is less likely to be disturbed.
Lay down on comfortable and light clothing that will not restrict your movement and bring socks, a blanket and a neck pillow for a sleeper. My advice for future travelers is to not forget noise-canceling headphones, entertainment gadgets, and phone/laptop chargers.
Wine and dine beforehand because, on the plane, there may not be much to do other than watch movies and / or listen to playlists downloaded beforehand. Lastly, ensure that travel documents are properly arranged in a folder in case they are required during travel.
Dress Comfortably
Especially during the long flight, a comfortable position is important. It is recommended not to wear very tight and formal clothes and opt for loose and light fabrics that are comfortable and provide enough room to bend as well as have good internal ventilation since cabin temperatures can be rather high.
Wearing layers such as cardigans and pashminas assist in changing conditions, dark clothing makes men appear more intimidating. Proper shoes can help reduce swelling that is so painful; on the other hand, having appropriate compression stocking enhances blood circulation.
Get refreshed by washing off with facial wipes and applying moisturizers. Take your favorite neck pillow and wrap yourself in your own blanket to enjoy a comfortable ride.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished
Drawing negative moisture out in dry airplane cabins leads to headaches, fatigue, and nausea. Instead of caffeine and alcohol which act as diuretics and hence exert a dehydration effect, try to take lots of water. Herbal teas, broths and fruit juices also replenish lost fluid content without putting extra load on the caffeine repository.
Consequently, use lip balm, a nasal spray, and moisturizers to combat dryness of the lips, nasal passages, and skin. Avoid purchasing airplane food because it is not always healthy, and it is better to pack your own healthy high protein snacks.
Pack fruits, vegetables, sandwiches, nuts and cheese to carry with you to help you stay energized for the entire duration of the travel.
Move and Stretch
This is because sitting in one posture for a long duration causes pain and rigidity of the muscles. Because of the long periods of sitting, it is imperative to stretch the hamstrings, calves, neck and shoulders at the seat often. This is a good move because you can rotate your ankles and wiggle your toes while seated to increase blood flow.
Walking is also a great way to exercise, so if it is possible try to take short walks to get your cardiovascular system going. Do the neck rolls and cat-cows at a seated position to help stretch the muscles of the neck.
Massage the point of the palms of your hands and soles of feet for relaxation. Exploration in the course of the day is another factor that reduces restlessness remarkably.
Entertainment and Relaxation
Entertainment is crucial, as boredom is a frequent issue reported by those confined to their rooms. Prepare your device: Before the journey download all eBooks, music playlists, podcasts, and movies that you plan on watching on your tablet or smartphone.
For reading, carry a paperback copy as a backup, and games to foster interaction in case of traveling. Wherever possible, complete all work on laptops and use on-board wireless connections. This is true because you should be in a position to talk to your neighbors but avoid intruding into their homes.
Choose exotic movies and TV shows or simply entertain the sentiment of sleeping with the provided eye mask and comfy wear.
Sleep and Rest
Food and shelter are required at regular intervals during long travel or tours. Try to adjust to the time at your destination by setting your watch at that time if you are going to experience jet lag. Do not have heavy lighting inside the cabin especially during night travels; in a case where you cannot avoid lighting, use an eye mask.
Select Comfort or business seating options if you want even further back support and more room for your legs. Carry along the noise-canceling headphones and earplugs to help minimize any form of interference. These are pillows, headrests, blankets and meditation that can be used in ensuring that you have a comfortable flight.
This is because these beverages are known to have an adverse effect on our ability to sleep well when consumed close to bedtime. Melatonin supplements help one feel sleepy when it is the right time to sleep and enables one to get a good sleep. Ensure you are well rested so that you are fully prepared for the vacation undertakings or for duties at the workplace.
Adjusting to Time Zones
It is imperative that one change their sleep-wake schedule to reduce the impact of jet lag when traveling across different time zones. For eastward travel, look at the morning sun and nap in the afternoon to adapt to the new time zone.
Go outside and get lots of light upon arrival at your destination and try to maintain your bedtime routine. It is also advisable to limit daytime maps especially if one has not yet adjusted their body internal clock which is referred to as circadian rhythms in about two to three days.
Feeling tired during the transition can be avoided with light exercises, consumption of water and food with moderate nutrients. In no distant future, you will be able to wander your desired location via the local time without stress.
Conclusion
So, long flights do not have to be agonizing. Thus, by following some simple considerations on preparation, packing, inflight conduct and tips on post flight readjustment, one can effectively manage lengthy flights. Some tips that will help you to have a hassle free flight the next time you plan for a long journey: Bon voyage!
