Aside from squeezable ketchup bottles and post-its, flying is most likely one of the coolest technologies ever: You board a plane and arrive at a new location where everything is different, from the language to the food to the weather. Depending on how long those “few hours” remain, you will be forced to sit very still in a small area for an extended period. Check out our top ten recommendations for making your next nationwide or transoceanic a journey a breeze in long-distance flight.
1. Pack your carry-on
If you want to look and feel like a million bucks after landing, we recommend packing the following travel-size items in your carry-on suitcase. Brushing your teeth makes you feel alert and refreshed, deodorant makes you smell good, and lip balm and lotion keep your skin shining no matter how dry the air is or how bad the jet lag is. Aside from toiletries, bring a pen and the location of where you’ll be staying (for the first night) so you may fill out all of your immigration papers without bothering the flight attendants.
2. Accessorize & sleep
Enhance your comfort with earplugs, an eye mask, and noise-canceling headphones. This, together with your neck cushion, will let you relax, cuddle in as much as an economy-class seat allows, and increase your chances of sleeping soundly. Unless you want to sleep and focus on a small screen in front of you…
3. Enjoy the entertainment
When you’re watching movies or television, time seems to fly by. Many airlines allow you to check the movie selection online, so you may plan your entertainment schedule or add it with your own collection. Even while movies are ideal for distraction and delight, there’s a small chance that the in-flight entertainment system isn’t working: Always have a backup plan, such as a book, computer games, movies, or music, so you don’t have to endure what it’s like to look at the back of your seat for eight hours.
4. Mind the legroom
Carry-on luggage is excellent. Until you have to put it beneath the seat in front of you, and your already restricted legroom is practically non-existent. Make sure to keep all of your stuff in the overhead bin so you can stretch your legs and feet frequently and gracefully.
5. Wear comfy clothes
When flying for hours, comfort is essential, so dress in layers like you would on a relaxed Sunday afternoon. Hoodies, scarves (which can also be used as a blanket or neck pillow), and extra pairs of socks to keep your feet warm and comfortable. If you don’t want to arrive at your destination looking like you’re wearing pajamas, bring a set of non-airplane clothes in your carry-on and change after landing.
6. Stretch and walk around
Sitting for hours is not only uncomfortable, but it can lead to serious blood clots. Try to stand up, walk around, and stretch your muscles as much as possible – while following to the seatbelt-sign requirements, of course! Some airlines recommend exercises in their in-flight magazines or on one of the television channels. If you’re stuck for ideas, try twisting your body, wrapping your arms around yourself, stretching your legs, rolling your head and ankles, or standing up and bouncing on your toes.
7. Hydrate and rehydrate
Drink a lot of water. Flying will dry your body, so drink more than you would on the ground. Do not wait until you are thirsty and need to climb over other passengers to catch the flight crew’s attention. Instead, purchase or bring a reusable water bottle that you can fill after passing through security and top off with the water provided on the plane. Avoid caffeine-based drinks and alcohol, as they dehydrate the body and make it more difficult to sleep. Feel free to bring some light snacks (fruit, almonds, and crackers) to keep you from getting hungry between meals.
8. Work out before you fly
Being active and getting some exercise before your journey will make you feel relaxed and maybe a little weary, which is excellent for sitting in an airplane for hours. Making a frenzied dash for the gate is not what we are looking for here; instead, working out, swimming a few laps, or going for a run or a quick walk before you leave will do. If you don’t have time, simply going around the airport can help.
9. Learn a few sentences in the local lingo
Learning a new language is not only a great way to pass the time, but it will also make your life much easier after you arrive. You can use a book, audio files on your phone, or films on your tablet to greet immigration authorities, cab drivers, and hotel receptionists as if they were locals. If one language isn’t enough of a challenge, try learning a few phrases in the language of each country you’ll be flying over.
10. Meet your neighbors
Striking up a conversation with the person next to you isn’t always successful, but it’s worth a shot because you never know who you’re sitting next to, and many friendships, business agreements, and travel plans began on aircraft. Plus, once you’ve introduced yourself and perhaps made some small chat, asking for movie recommendations or even the cookie your seat neighbor hasn’t finished is much easier.