Taking your first long flight comes with a feeling of excitement and great worry at the same time. A whole thought process goes into knowing how to behave, react and dress for it. Sitting for hours, dealing with jet lag, and adjusting to a new time zone can be overwhelming too, especially if you’re flying internationally. But don’t fret! Guardian Life has curated practical, real-life tips to make your flight time smooth and stress-free and enjoyable.
Dress for comfort
Forget tight jeans or heavy outfits, long flights are all about comfort. Wear breathable clothes like joggers, leggings, or sweatpants, and layer up with a hoodie or jacket because planes can get really cold. Also, wear easy-to-remove shoes for airport security checks and in-flight comfort.
Arrive at the airport early
For international flights, arrive at the airport at least four hours before departure to allow time for check-in, security clearance, and any last-minute surprises. Long lines, baggage checks, and unexpected delays are common, so being early will keep you stress-free.
Stay hydrated
Cabin air is dry, and dehydration can leave you feeling tired and sluggish. Drink plenty of water before and during the flight. But don’t overdo it, you don’t want to keep disturbing your seatmate every 30 minutes to use the restroom. A refillable water bottle can be a lifesaver.
Move around and stretch
Sitting in one position for hours can make your body stiff and uncomfortable. Get up every few hours to stretch, walk around, or do simple seated exercises to improve circulation. If you’re in a window seat, don’t be shy—just let your seatmates know when you need to move.
READ ALSO: Essential tips for first-time international travellers
Prepare for sleep
If your flight is overnight, try to sleep to adjust to your destination’s time zone. Bring a neck pillow, eye mask, and noise-canceling headphones to block out distractions. If you have trouble sleeping, melatonin can help, but don’t take too much, you don’t want to land feeling drowsy.
Get your vibe
Don’t rely on the airline’s in-flight entertainment, it might not have what you like, or the screen might not even work. Download movies, music, and books on your phone or tablet before you board. A power bank is essential because some planes don’t have charging ports.
Pack snacks
Airline food can be hit or miss. If you’re picky or have dietary restrictions, carry snacks like granola bars, nuts, or crackers to keep hunger at bay. Avoid foods that are too salty or heavy, they can make you feel bloated.
Protect your skin and freshen up
The dry cabin air can leave your skin feeling tight and flaky. Carry a small moisturiser and lip balm to keep your skin hydrated. Before landing, freshen up with face wipes, deodorant, and a toothbrush so you arrive feeling refreshed.
Manage jet lag
If you’re crossing multiple time zones, jet lag can mess up your body clock. A few tricks are: adjust your sleep schedule before you fly, stay awake if you land in the morning and sleep if you land at night. Lastly, get some sunlight when you arrive, it helps reset your body clock.
Stay calm
First-time flying nerves are normal, but remember, you’ve got this! Take deep breaths, stay organised, and enjoy the experience. A long flight is just a stepping stone to an amazing adventure ahead. With these tips, you’ll survive your first long-haul flight like you’ve done this all your life. Safe travels!
