We are preparing to embark on another adventure in Italy this summer. You may be planning on your first international trip or your 10th. Here is a complete list with 15 Ways to Survive a Long Haul Flight.
If you’ve never flown on a long flight you may be looking for some tips to help the long flight. Some people love long flights and as soon as they arrive in their seats they close their eyes and sleep (my husband!). I am extremely envious of those of you that can snooze anywhere no matter what the circumstances. I am not one of those and do need a little help. Even if you aren’t comfortable enough to catch a little sleep, at least you could make that long trip a little more enjoyable. All it takes is a little planning and using our tips!
1. Pre-download movies
Before every flight (including short ones) I always download movies. I either use Netflix, Amazon Prime, or iTunes that way in case there are no movies on the flight, I have a backup which will help keep me entertained.
2. Make the Perfect Playlist
Another great way to pass time on an airplane is to listen to some music. I always pre-download songs on Spotify that way when I am on a flight, I can enjoy my favorite playlists that I made.
3. Hydrate
A good way to fight jet lag is to stay hydrated. I usually like to start hydrating the day before by taking lots of Vitamin C packets which can help my health. Try not to bring a water bottle full of water when you get into the airport because no matter what, you have to dump it out before security. You can bring a reusable bottle into the airport and fill it up at the water fountains that they have in the airport, or you can just buy an overpriced water bottle in one of the shops there. One last tip about hydration…when you are on a super long flight and you are seated in between people, don’t drink too much water because you’d probably have to get up lots of time to use the bathroom and it can annoy the people that you are sitting next to.
4.Get a good nights sleep
If you are able to, try and get a good nights sleep the night before that way just in case you can’t get any sleep on the plane, you won’t be so tired when you reach your destination.
5. Bring your own food and snacks.
Airplane food is unfortunately known for not being the best. You may get lucky on some airlines, but I recommend that you always bring extra snacks that you can fit into your carry-on because you never know when you may get hungry.
6. Clothing
Whenever I travel (particularly in the summer), I ALWAYS wear clothing that is comfortable and warm. I usually wear comfortable running shoes, my Adidas joggers, a short sleeve shirt, an extra thin long sleeve shirt, and a jacket. Because when you are traveling for more then 10 hours (including travel before the airplane and after), you want to be in clothes that provide comfort.
7. Get a good seat
If you’re on a budget and don’t want to pay for the seat reservation check out Seat Guru, which has airline seat maps and a comfort rating system.
8. Bring a travel neck pillow
Being on an airplane for a long amount of time can for sure hurt your neck if you don’t have support and you want to sleep, so I highly recommend bringing a neck pillow.
9. Read a book.
Whenever I travel I always like to bring along a book. If you are on a long flight, it sometimes is nice to take a break from staring at bright screens and entertain yourself by reading.
10. Alcohol
Consider skipping the wine. Alcohol dehydrates. Red wine will also give you a headache. I know there are those travelers that swear by having a drink or two and even end up sleeping the whole flight. The problem is you’ll start your trip most likely with a little hangover or headache and that’s just not fun. Better to arrive feeling fresh and ready to explore! And you could enjoy a glass of whatever you like at your new and exciting destination!
11.Bring a night mask and ear plugs to sleep
I always bring a night mask and ear plugs on a long flight because when I want to get some rest, it helps to block out the light and any noise that there is.
12.Make a friend
If you are feeling chatty and your not disturbing anyone, make a friend on the plane because it 100% helps to pass time and it’s always interesting to learn about other people. And you never know who you may meet on the flight. But with everyone most likely on their devices, you’ll have to catch the moment to say “ciao” when you’re both in between a movie!
13.Catch up on any work you have to do
If you have any homework or business work, long flights are a great way to get things done if you are feeling motivated.
14.Set your watch to the destination time
If you are on a long flight, you are most likely going to some destination that has a time change. If you have a watch on, be sure to set it to the appropriate time that way when you land, you will have it ready.
15.Bring Toiletries
I always like to freshen up towards the end of the flight that way when I am at my destination, I feel somewhat better. I always have toiletries on me like a toothbrush, deodorant, and a brush for my hair.
Looking for more advice for when you travel to Europe? Check out this post 10 Ways to Prepare Before Going to Europe.
We hope you could use this complete list with 15 Ways to Survive a Long Haul Flight for your next big trip! What tips would you add to it? Are you planning a trip to ITALY this summer? Where will you visit? Let us know…we love talking about Italy travel!
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