Seven ways to make the best of long-haul flights
I would definitely say I fall into the minority of people who love long haul flights (minority being just me). Most people either get scared of being cooped up on a plane for 8+ hours, or can't sleep on planes, or just don't particularly enjoy flying (especially on long haul routes). So since I've done my fair share of flying, and I actually enjoy doing it, I put together a list of seven of the most important tips for not only surviving a long haul flight, but thriving on it.
1. Try your best to maintain your night time routine
This one is universal. Everyone has a nighttime routine- whether it be simply brushing your teeth, looking at your phone or reading, and then going to bed, or slightly more elaborate (like mine), do your best to stick to that when getting on an overnight long haul flight. Granted, there are some things you can't (or may not want to) do in an airplane bathroom, but try to stick to most of it. Take a few minutes before getting some sleep to brush your teeth (with your own toothbrush!!), take your makeup off, wash your face, moisturize, etc. I even take my night time vitamins on the plane too! Adhering to your routine helps to tell your body to prepare for sleep. It seems weird, but it really does help you get some quality rest.
2. Invest in some comfy plane socks
I can't stress this enough. When you're on a plane for a Godforsaken number of hours, you will not and should not want to keep your shoes on. BUT that also doesn't allow you to have bare feet on a plane because 1. that's just gross, and 2. it grosses other people out- especially when personal space is already limited in economy. I always recommend investing in a super comfy, thick pair of socks (like these!) that you wear only on the plane. For $15, you get a great pair of socks- they're comfy, warm (because planes can be cold), keep your feet covered and clean, and you don't have to wear your shoes. It's a win-win situation!
3. Stock up on your favorite snacks
It's no secret that the majority of plane food isn't great. Always always make sure to stock up on some favorite snacks! I always pack one sweet, one salty, and one healthy snack, and then buy a bottle of water once I get through security. Having snacks helps keep your hangriness at bay while you're cruising at 36,000 ft, allows you to avoid the usually gross mystery meat dinner, and they're infinitely healthier for you since they're not so jam-packed with preservatives and extra salt.
4. Bring multiple forms of entertainment
Whatever you do, please (I'm begging) don't be the person who gets on a plane, and does nothing for the duration of the flight. I've had my fair share of sitting next to those people, and believe me, it's awkward, weird, and uncomfortable to be the person next to the staring guy. I just can't imagine what it's like to actually BE the staring guy! On any flight, I always have headphones for listening to music, a book, and my journal. If I get bored while reading, I can write in my journal, or play a game on my phone (not the most productive, I know). And on long-haul flights, I usually bring my computer with a show or two downloaded on it. Granted, most planes these days have IFE (in-flight entertainment) screens for each passenger, and they're getting better and better in terms of having things to keep passengers occupied like newer release movies, games, and even some TV shows. It's just important to try and keep yourself busy. And besides, staying busy will help pass the time!
5. maximize water, minimize alcohol
Between the salty plane food, the pressurized cabin, and the lack of sleep, it's no surprise that everyone gets dehydrated on a flight. And trust me when I say I am all for enjoying a drink or two while aboard, but I save my enjoyment of libations for shorter flights. Alcohol is a master dehydrator, and combined with the natural environment of the airplane, you have a recipe for disaster. Try to drink at least 3 big gulps of water every hour. I shoot for 8oz of water per hour, but let's face it, that's a lot of water (especially on a 14 hour flight HAHA). The key is to stay hydrated, and not to do anything that could make you even more dehydrated (like order a gin and tonic).
6. Be nice to those around you
This should go without saying, but I thought I'd throw it in here anyway. As I mentioned above, personal space on a plane is already extremely limited, the seats are usually uncomfortable, and most people hate being cooped up for so long. Even if you're so crabby you can't even be excited for the trip ahead of you, do your best to be nice to the other passengers, and especially the flight attendants. I was just on a flight coming back from Hawaii where a lady was yelling at one of the flight attendants, telling him how terrible he was at doing his job, and how she was going to send a long review of him to United Customer Service telling them how horrible he was. The whole conversation was uncomfortable to be around, the poor flight attendant didn't know how to handle her, and frankly it made a lot of people mad at the lady for yelling at him so publicly. Flight attendants have a tough job, don't make it any tougher on them. Be kind, even if you don't want to.
7. Wear comfy clothes
This one is IMPERATIVE. I can't tell you how many times I've seen women get on an 8 hour flight wearing a mini skirt and stilettos. I mean, they look fashionable and all, but like how are you gonna get comfy and sleep? Answer: they're not. Don't be those women. In this instance, pick comfort over fashion. Remember, you'll be in these clothes for well over 12 hours so you want to wear something that is comfortable, breathable, and maybe a little stylish. I usually opt for some comfy black leggings, a denim shirt, and running shoes, or converse. Comfort is maximized, and it's not the ugliest outfit. It is so SO important to make sure you're comfortable on the plane. Gents, the same goes for you! Wear your favorite comfy jeans, some semi-fashionable sneakers, and a polo or button down that you can move in.
So there you have it! 7 of my most important tips for thriving on a long-haul flight. I know these long flights might not be the most pleasant, but sticking to these tips will help you make the most of your time in the sky.