5 tips for stress-free long-haul flights

The world is getting smaller every day. Long-haul flights to distant places for business or pleasure are becoming more and more popular. There are more planes, more airports to fly to, and more people willing to spend half a day or more in the air. It’s just easier and cheaper than it used to be to fly long distances. Unfortunately, the experience of traveling to the other side of the world can often be a stressful and exhausting affair, especially for the uninitiated or unprepared. This does not have to be the case. Just follow this guide to a stress-free long-haul flight and you can sit back and enjoy the whole experience!

Step 1: Do your homework:

A little preparation will certainly help you find the right airline for you. The Internet is a great resource in this regard, but don’t ignore your local travel agent who may have a great customer experience with multiple airlines.

You may want to find out who will offer more legroom, what the quality of the food is like, and how reliable their customer service is.
Most airlines now offer some form of in-seat entertainment, such as the Singapore airline’s Krisworld system (always very good) and I particularly enjoyed the Japan airline’s on-screen camera views that allow you to see straight ahead from the nose of the plane or down wherever you are flying. These systems are a good way to kill a few hours of any flight.

Of course, the price is important and the purchases are really worth it. Don’t be afraid to go directly to the airline and check for any special offers they may have, as well as use street and internet-based agents.

Step 2: Airport time:

You’re usually expected to check in 2 hours before your long-haul flight, though it’s always worth arriving a little earlier as most people will be queuing by this time. It’s better to spend 3 hours sitting in the departure lounge with a good book than standing in the check-in queue!

Of course, the earlier you arrive, the better chance you have of reserving a good seat. Many airlines are now introducing services on their websites that allow you to reserve seats, order meals and check-in through automated express check-in systems; the best way to do it by far.

Step 3: Enjoy the flight:

On a 19-hour flight it’s important to stay busy. The obvious solution is a good book. I always start a book a few days before I fly, so I’m already ‘into it’ before I get on the plane, which guarantees a pre-planned slice of escapism.

These days we are fortunate to have in-seat technologies to keep us entertained, which will often include the latest blockbuster movies, video games, and all manner of TV shows and flight information. However, I still find the trust book to be the best way to kill time.

The holy grail of long-haul flights is getting a good night’s sleep. The air quality, light sources, noise, and cramped upright seats are certainly not conducive to falling asleep. An Ezysleep inflatable travel pillow, for example, is designed to solve the problem of supporting your neck while it’s upright, but there are other things you can do. Earplugs and an eye mask can help deal with light and noise, so pair them with your travel pillow for a good night’s sleep.

If the food isn’t up to scratch, make sure you’re prepared with some healthy snacks and a good supply of water. It may be free, but alcohol and coffee are very dehydrating and this is the last thing you want in an already arid environment. Stick with the water and fruit juices.

Most importantly, enjoy the flight! Enjoy that time away from mobile phones and boss and traffic and relax. You are 40,000 feet away from everything, make the most of it!

Step 4: Stay healthy:

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a constant concern for long-distance travelers. Although extremely rare, it is a very dangerous condition. The condition is prevented by making sure that the blood flow around your body is kept moving.

Do the exercises recommended by the in-flight video and magazines, walk regularly to the kitchen, bathroom, or just up and down the halls, and drink plenty of water.

Step 5: Avoid jet lag:

The best way to avoid or minimize jet lag is to start planning during the flight. Set your watch to the time at your destination as soon as you can and do your best to sleep at night where you’re going, even if it means missing meals on board.

Keep drinking that water so you’re not dehydrated when you land. When you arrive at your destination, don’t go to sleep right away. Try to stay up into the night and you’ll have the best chance of quickly adjusting to your new time zone.