How to Survive Long Haul Flights in Economy?

1. Prepare a Good Plan

Your carry-on luggage needs to be fully equipped with essentials for the long journey. Think in advance about items that can help entertain you during the flight.

You need to prepare clothes (if you have a stopover, you can find a bathroom at the airport), a toothbrush, and toothpaste in your hand luggage to ensure your body is always comfortable throughout the journey. Note, you should choose clothes with comfortable materials and designs.

In addition, you should also prepare a pair of compression socks to prevent foot swelling due to many hours of inactivity.

2. Choose Your Seats Wisely

When preparing to survive long-haul flights, selecting the right seat can significantly impact your comfort. Avoid picking your seat blindly. Look out for undesirable configurations, such as being stuck in the middle of a 2-4-2 row or next to the lavatory. Consider opting for exit row seats for extra legroom, but be aware of both the advantages and limitations associated with these seats.

3. Dress in Layers

Long-haul flights often subject passengers to unpredictable cabin temperatures. To adapt, dress comfortably in layers. Start with a breathable base layer and add a cozy scarf, wrap, or cape that can double as a blanket during the flight. Being able to adjust your clothing as needed ensures you stay comfortable throughout the journey.

4. Stay Hydrated

Airplane air is dehydrated, so bring moisturizer, lip balm, eye drops, and nasal spray. Avoid alcohol and drink as much water as possible during the flight.

It’s best to bring your empty water bottle and fill it up at the airport after clearing customs. You can also prepare powdered vitamins or electrolytes to add to water to help prevent dehydration.

5. Have Entertainment Ready

You need to plan to fill the remaining time on the plane. Downloading a 10-episode series or a long-running TV series are useful way. Or you can preview on the airline’s website to see what entertainment will be available on your flight.

In addition, you can bring a book or pre-load some games on your phone or iPad, and don’t forget to bring a backup charger.

Read more: 30 Best Travel Books of All Time for Every Wanderers

6. Mind Your Meals

Optimize your in-flight nutrition by choosing lighter, easily digestible meals. Heavy, greasy food can leave you feeling sluggish and uncomfortable. Additionally, consider packing your healthy snacks to supplement the provided meals. Staying well-fed and hydrated contributes to a more pleasant long-haul experience.

7. Sleep as Much as Possible

Do everything you can to sleep on the plane as much as possible. Some travelers use sedatives, while others choose to use eye shields and noise-canceling headphones and reduce cabin lighting. Besides, you should prepare a U-shaped neck pillow to support your neck when sleeping.

8. Stretch Regularly

On long flights, many people prefer aisle seats to stand up frequently without disturbing the person sitting next to them. Before booking, research the aircraft layout and model on websites to find the most legroom.

9. Bring Your Amenities

Economy-class amenities can be minimal, so it’s essential to pack your own. Consider essentials like a neck pillow, eye mask, and noise-canceling headphones. These items enhance your comfort and help create a personalized in-flight experience. Don’t forget to bring personal entertainment, such as books, movies, or music, to make the hours fly by.

Read more: Travel Blanket: Top 10 Choices for Your Comfortable and Restful Journeys

10. Think Ahead about the Final Destination

Most importantly, you should never go back to sleep if you land during the day. That will help you overcome the time zone difference a bit.

1. Should I Wear Compression Socks on a Long Flight?

Yes, wearing compression socks during long flights is beneficial. They help improve circulation, prevent swelling, and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) by applying pressure to your calves and feet. Consider wearing them before your flight and keep them on until you land.

2. How Do I Stop My Legs from Hurting on a Long Flight?

To prevent leg discomfort during long flights:

• Move Regularly: Stand up, stretch, and do calf raises to promote circulation.
• Stay Hydrated: Dehydration worsens leg discomfort, so drink water.
• Wear Compression Socks: They enhance blood flow and reduce swelling.
• Avoid Crossing Legs: Maintain good posture to prevent cramps.
• Choose the Right Seat: Opt for an aisle or bulkhead seat for more legroom.

3. What Is the Longest Flight in the World?

The longest nonstop flight is currently operated by Singapore Airlines between New York City (JFK) and Singapore. It covers approximately 9,585 miles and takes around 18 hours and 50 minutes on an Airbus A350-900ULR6.

4. Where Not to Sit on a Plane?

Avoid these seats:

• Middle Seat: Uncomfortable and lacks space to lean or stretch.
• Seats Near Bathrooms: Noise and frequent disturbances.
• Bulkhead Row Seats: Limited under-seat storage.
• Seats with Abnormal Configurations: Uneven legroom.
• Back of the Plane: Louder and more turbulence.

5. What Position Should You Sleep on a Plane?

Experts recommend leaning back to a 135-degree angle, which places less pressure on your body and reduces the risk of blood clots. Move your seat back about 40 degrees for optimal comfort.