40 Long Haul Flights Tips and Tricks for A Great Experience

(Last Updated On: April 26, 2022)

There are several long-haul flights tips and tricks for a successful trip. Economy seats don’t have to be anything to endure a long flight. Get a comfortable seat for easy access to the galley when needed and try (or simply take quick steps to get your blood flowing) and let these tips help you travel more comfortably. This article will be sharing the most useful long-haul flights tips and tricks.

Consider your next long-haul flight: it’s unlikely to be a picture of comfort, a restful night’s sleep, or, most importantly, a happy start to your vacation. But don’t let the prospect of cruising at 39,000 feet for a lengthy period put a damper on your next vacation.

Put a smile on the flight crew’s faces. If you want to make sure you have a good time on your flight, consider the satisfaction of the cabin staff as well. Start by greeting them as you board (according to a Business Insider poll, being ignored by passengers is a major annoyance), and try presenting a bag of cookies or other food on your way in.

It’s not bribery – and it doesn’t ensure you’ll get special treatment – but it will put the staff in a better mood, which will improve the flying experience for everyone on board.

Make the most of the free time you have. We seldom have time to be disconnected these days, so a long-haul trip might be an excellent opportunity to catch up on work or simply disconnect.

Read that book that’s been sitting on your bedside table for months, accomplish some work that doesn’t require you to be hooked to your computer, or simply recline your seat and enjoy the in-flight entertainment. If you want to catch up on the latest releases, airlines like Emirates (which has been rated the best inflight entertainment for the past 12 years in the World Airline Awards) are a solid choice.

Make a device plan ahead of time. You can now download your favorite TV series and films on your phone or tablet thanks to services like Netflix and Amazon Video – ideal for those lengthy, short-haul flights with no in-flight entertainment.

However, nothing screams acute boredom for the next 10 hours like your phone or tablet dying mid-flight, so grab a portable power pack to ensure you’re never left in the dark mid-movie.

Keep the youngsters occupied. Are you taking your children on a trip? On a lengthy journey, there’s nothing more unpleasant than attempting to keep kids occupied without disturbing the passenger in front of you.

Prepare ahead of time by packing a travel bag packed with inexpensive goods like tiny toys, crayons, and coloring books to keep them occupied. Booking flights that correspond to their normal resting periods will help keep kids quiet and happy while also allowing you to catch some much-needed rest.

Look into the top airlines. However, whether or not you enjoy a long-haul journey is totally reliant on the airline’s quality. In the age of low-cost airlines, it’s possible that you get what you pay for.

Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines are consistently ranked among the best in the world, receiving honors for both business and economy class cabins. When it comes to European airlines to watch out for, Aeroflot, Turkish, and KLM all rate highly, so do your research before you go and discover how you might end up enjoying your next long-distance journey.

Long haul flights tips and tricks

Here are the tricks:

1. Avoid fitting jet lag

Jet lag disrupts body rhythms with travel across time zones, presumably due to earlier sleep deprivation. Your destination needs to be ‘rhythmic’ to help you adjust, so set your watch’s destination on time as you travel.

Flights from the east usually produce worse signs than the western ones. A general rule of thumb is that the number of days needed to recover is equal to two-thirds of the number of regions crossed. With westbound flights, the number crosses half-time zones.

2. Wear shoes

Never repeat after wearing shoes, do not use airplane towels. Flight attendants work hard to keep these areas clean, but can you guess what the few splashes on the floor are, and do you really want to get there and then take it back to your seat? You need comfortable shoes because your feet may swell during the flight so we recommend traveling in lightweight sandals.

3. Two drinks

Flight attendants say it’s okay to ask for two drinks at a time so you don’t have to call again in five minutes. Be sure to drink plenty of water and juice to keep you hydrated and avoid caffeinated soft drinks, as well as tea and coffee.

4. Basic toiletries

Even with liquid safety restrictions, you are allowed basic toiletries on the board. In case of changing circumstances, check before traveling. We recommend taking a small toothpaste (less than 100 ml) and toothbrush, a small moisturizer, and deodorant.

It should stop people from taking more time in the toilets. Remember that airport toilets can be refreshing as you collect your luggage if friends come to you and you’re worried about the smell. It is one of the long-haul flight’s tips and tricks.

5. Get your meal in advance

If you like to eat early, order a special meal. When booking your ticket, you need to book it. Allow at least 24 hours. Remember, however, that your tray will not be cleaned any longer.

6. Wear layers

You have to fight the busy airports at each end and the air conditioning at different levels of the aircraft, so the levels are the best. Try a body warmer / vest with pockets as it gives more ‘hand luggage space.

7. Exercise

Get up and stretch regularly if possible or circle your ankle at least once. In-flight magazines will have photos of the proposed practice.

8. Dry and freshen the air

Place the air vents on top of you. Damp a Fescoth, place it on your face and notice the air vent on the cloth and it will help dry out. Dry air is one of the long-haul flights tips and tricks.

9. Chewing gum

Chewing can help with changes in air pressure, such as sucking on hard candy. Remember, your ears always pop not only during take-off and landing but also during flight. Chewing gum makes you feel disgusting but it also helps if you do something.

10. Use cushions

Keep one of the pillows under your back (right below your ribs) and between the seats to help reduce back pain. If you try to get some sleep that supports your neck, you can use your own inflatable neck pillow or do a scrunch provided by the airline.

11. Choose your meal carefully

One study found that carb-rich foods like spaghetti, whole grain bread, and oatmeal make it easier to fight jet lag. According to the survey, high levels of insulin make it easy to transfer from one sleep to another eating schedule. Carb-rich foods help induce insulin emissions, which is why they can help prevent (or reduce) jet lag.

12. Pack snacks

Being hungry is uncomfortable when you’re on the ground, but at least you can run and grab a snack. Hunger on the plane means picking up and buying expensive snacks on board, or sitting there waiting until the next meal is served – if the meal is served.

Your best bet is to come up with protein-rich snacks that will make you feel longer. Think nuts, peanut butter, crackers, cheese, yogurt, or even protein bars.

13. Do not stuff your face

According to Web MD, digestion is tough while in the air, so even if it is okay to eat, the filling is not the best idea. In fact, depending on how long your flight is, you may want to eat just before boarding, and the only snack while on air. If you prefer to eat on a plane, remember that hot foods are better than cold foods as they are easier to digest.

14. Request a special meal

If you’ve ever sat next to a vegetarian (or any vegetarian foodie request) on the plane, you know that these “special” foods are first served. So if you’re hoping to get your own meal first – which means not having to wait for full service and being able to sleep fast – request a special meal. Depending on the airline you fly from Gluten Free to Kosher, you can request multiple types of food, so make sure to check online before your flight.

15. Stay hydrated

Although there is no magic number for how much water you can drink on a flight, health experts generally recommend drinking more than you should, because air travel is incredibly dehydrating. Continue drinking throughout the flight; Do not wait until you are thirsty to ask a flight attendant for water.

16. Avoid coffee

Caffeine will hold you back, dehydrate you more and irritate you.

Instead, drink green tea

If decaffeinated green tea is an option on your flight, you may want to take advantage. The drink is said to help stop the launch of the jet lag.

17. No alcohol intake

If you are a person who falls asleep more easily after a glass of wine, however, order a small bottle. But keep in mind that although alcohol is depressing, the first few hours after drinking it can act as a stimulant which means it will probably keep you going.

Drinking too much can cause multiple problems such as dehydration and malnutrition that will only aggravate the dehydration that you are already experiencing and the jet lag you will probably experience once you get down. You are also likely to get sick and no one wants to spend the better part of a long-distance airplane in the bathroom (and probably not cleanly).

Although cabins are pressurized to reduce the effects of altitude sickness, nausea and headaches are still likely to occur. When you combine it with a lack of sleep and a lot of drink, you’ve got yourself a recipe for a bad hangover. Water, on the other hand, is your ally. Purchase a bottle at duty-free and have it refilled during the journey to stay hydrated in between meals.

18. Wear comfortable, loose, loose clothing

Sweat pants should not be your travel clothes, but it is a good idea to wear a more comfortable loose-fitting dress on the fly – especially a long dress. For men, this means a pair of jeans and a t-shirt; Any woman might want to try leggings and a sweater.

19. Wear layers

A longer flight means that the freezing point can be overheated and returned again. To keep your body at a comfortable temperature, it’s best to layer your clothing. Just wear a T-shirt and don’t bring a heavy jacket. Instead, wear a sweater or a t-shirt with a sweatshirt on top and then consider wearing a jacket just in case. The 15-in-1 jacket is ideal for hassle-free travel.

20. Bring a scarf

Although it is probably more related to female travelers than male travelers, a scarf comes in handy on a flight because it can be used as a fashion accessory, a blanket, and even lumbar support. Even expert travelers swear by them.

21. Bring a neck pillow

Of course, they aren’t the hottest accessory out there, but your neck will thank you. Also, feeling physically comfortable will improve your general well-being and possibly help you sleep.

22. Bring lumbar support

Why aircraft seats were designed with a curve is not beyond us, but their C-shape does nothing for the human spine, which looks more like an Ace, thus causing passengers to have a sudden back and neck. Placing a pillow, blanket, or sweater on your lower back will counteract the shape of the seat and keep your spine in natural shape.

23. Bring the word out by canceling headphones or earplugs

The ambient roar (and background noise in general) of the aircraft’s engine is known to create stress. Noisy headphones or earplugs will not only prevent that noise but will also prevent other sounds like crying babies and flight attendants trying to serve your food.

24. Download white words or meditative words

In the same vein, white sounds or meditative words can interrupt the sound of our surroundings, as well as help you relax and sleep better. Educative and entertaining entertainment! One of my favorite ways to pass the time when traveling is to listen to podcasts. I just download a few intriguing ones before my travel and listen to them on the plane.

25. Bring an eye mask

It may not be the most flattering look when you’re flying, but light blocking helps the jet lag, as light affects your circadian rhythm. It also prepares you for sleep mentally and blocks breakfast from getting up on long-haul flights.

26. Wear brief socks

Compression socks will help you avoid “economic class syndrome,” aka swollen feet and ankles, leg pain, and even blood clotting and deep vein thrombosis that sit for too long or stay in the same position. It is one of the long-haul flight’s tips and tricks.

27. Practice some seats

If the compression socks are a bit too much for you, you may want to practice a bit of seating to get the same effect. Airlines such as Qantas and Virgin also suggest exercises, and Qantas recommends being engaged in them for three or four minutes per hour.

Exercises include lifting your feet up from the ground and rotating them in circles by several inches, keeping your heels on the floor and pointing your toes as far as possible, then pointing the toes down and rolling your shoulders back and forth while lifting the heels up.

28. Bring your own entertainment

It’s a no-brainer, but bring enough books, magazines, games, and movies to keep yourself busy instead of relying on a potentially awful in-flight movie and shelling out $ 5 dollars for headphones. Reading material is required because take-off and landing will last at least one hour during which you cannot use your electronics or watch movies.

29. Charge all your devices and bring an extra power pack

Travel drains your phone’s battery – While you’re waiting, you’re probably playing games, checking texts or weather, traffic, or delays. Make sure your phone and iPad are fully charged before you leave, or bring some extra juice in the power pack size.

30. Snag a window seat

A window seat not only gives you a nice, sturdy wall to keep your head in for a more comfortable shake, but it also means that you won’t be bothered by passing drinks, and you have to get up in the bathroom when you need to go.

31. Sit with the wings of the aircraft

Many experts claim that the seats in the wing of an aircraft feel less turbulent, as they are closer to the center of gravity of the aircraft.

32. Avoid bulkhead seats or front of exit rows

The former will not have storage space for you to carry, and the last one will no longer be aligned.

33. Bring flight attendants chocolate

Obviously, when flight attendants fly in person, they bring crew chocolate – popularize themselves and do the same, you can get some benefits and desired treatment or at least some good karma.

34. Bring lotion, chapstick, and avian spray

Dehydration The worst part of every flight is the recycling, pressurized air (which comes from super high altitude and about 0% humidity), leaving most travelers nationally cursed. Fight dryness with hand lotions, Evian sprays, and chapstick.

35. Wear closed-toe shoes

In case of an emergency, closed-toe shoes are your safest bet. There may be fire, debris, or glass shards. Properly-padded shoes allow you to move faster when you need them.

36. Bring a scarf or a jacket with you

During a lengthy journey, a scarf, in particular, can be used as a blanket or pillow. Nowadays, having a blanket offered on your journey is becoming less typical, and occasionally the cabin doesn’t even have enough for everyone. Because flights may be rather chilly, it’s smart to have something practical just in case. Almost every time, a thick, broad scarf will suffice.

37. Bring a foam neck cushion with you

Once again, you want to be comfortable on your journey, and a memory foam neck pillow, whether you’re in the window, aisle, or middle seat, will make your travel even more pleasant and enjoyable.

Because of the limited space, some people are cautious to bring a neck cushion. However, most neck pillows include a snap clasp, allowing you to conveniently attach it to your carry-on handle or a personal item. You can always wear it around your neck if you’re not sure. There’s nothing to be ashamed of.

38. Bring a sleeping mask with you

An eye mask will be immensely beneficial in obtaining some pretty regular shut-eye if you’re flying through the day. It’s less required if you’re traveling on a red-eye trip, but every little bit helps.

39. In your personal item, including headphones and a portable charger

This is essential if you want to stay amused or productive. Headphones for jamming or listening to podcasts, as well as a portable charger to keep your phone charged. Although some aircraft feature USB ports, you can’t always trust them to work… That’s right, I’m serious. Just in case, bring headphones, a portable charger, and your cable.

40. Upgrade your status

Getting an upgrade is number one on the list of ways to enjoy a flight. Although there is no exact science to acquiring it, there are several things you may do to improve your chances.

Join the airline’s frequent flyer program to begin accruing Airmiles and working toward becoming the first in line for an overbooked aircraft upgrade.

Arriving early for a flight and being the first to check-in may result in an upgrade – but only if you dress appropriately. Hiking boots and leggings aren’t going to get you that job.

Take away

Make sure you have your survival gear with you before you leave the house. When it comes to achieving that all-important (but elusive) aspect of a long-haul flight: sleep, those of us who travel frequently have a few tricks under our sleeves. Making ensuring you’re comfortable is key to getting in the mood for a nap, which is best accomplished with the help of a flight survival kit.

An eye mask, earplugs, wet wipes, a toothbrush, and a comfortable neck pillow should help you get ready for a good night’s sleep. Variable airlines have different in-flight temperatures, so bring an extra sweater and a pair of warm socks in case the air conditioning is stuck on high.

Make sure you have some munchies on hand. Airline cuisine is notoriously bad, and there’s no assurance that whatever you’re fed will be appetizing or fill you up until the next round of food arrives at an unknown hour. Instead, bring some nutritious snacks like almonds, oat bars, or fruit to munch on between meals.

Make use of the airport lounge. You don’t have to be a regular traveler or fly business class to enjoy airport lounges these days. For a price, programs like Lounge Pass allow you to access a variety of airport lounges. For as low as £15, you may receive a shower, massage, and even a delicious dinner before boarding the airline if you have a long stopover or simply want to clean yourself before boarding.