Whether you are flying 6 hours to Europe or 14 hours across the Pacific, these 41 long haul flight tips will help you arrive feeling human. Covering what to pack, what to wear, how to sleep, and how to stay healthy in the air.
You might also like: Best Snacks to Take on a Plane or What to Pack for a Month in Italy
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Jump To
- What Is a long-haul flight?
- Before the flight
- What to Wear on a Long Haul Flight
- How to Eat and Sleep on a Long Flight
- How to Choose the Right Seat for a Long Haul Flight
- How to Stay Hydrated on a Long Haul Flight
- Health Tips for Long Haul Flights
- What to Do on a Long Flight: Entertainment Ideas
- Long Haul Flight Comfort Tips
- In-Flight Tips for Long Haul Travel
- In-flight Hygiene Tips
- Long Haul Flight Packing List: Quick Summary
- FAQ'S
After more long haul flights to Italy than I can count, I finally figured out how to make them survivable. Not just survivable, actually. With the right preparation, a long flight to Europe can be genuinely comfortable, especially if you know what to bring and what to avoid.
I am one of those people who cannot just fall asleep anywhere on a plane. I have tried. I need strategies. And over the years I have built up a solid list of 41 tips that actually work, from what to pack in your carry-on to how to choose the right seat to Italy travel tips for when you land.
Whether this is your first international flight or your fiftieth, this guide has something useful in it. Let's get into it.
So let's get right into how to survive a long flight.
What Is a long-haul flight?
A long haul flight is generally any flight that lasts more than 6 to 7 hours. Most aviation definitions place long haul at anything over 6 hours, while ultra-long haul refers to flights over 12 hours.
Here is a quick breakdown of the flight length categories:
- Short haul: under 3 hours (think London to Paris, or New York to Miami)
- Medium haul: 3 to 6 hours (New York to London is right on the edge)
- Long haul: 6 to 12 hours (most transatlantic and transpacific flights)
- Ultra-long haul: 12 hours or more (think New York to Singapore or Sydney)
For most travelers flying to Europe from the US East Coast, you are looking at 7 to 9 hours. West Coast to Europe is closer to 11 to 12 hours. And if you are heading to Asia or Australia, you are firmly in ultra-long haul territory.
Before the flight
1. Carry all your essentials in your carry-on
Put your medications, electronics, chargers, a change of clothes, and anything irreplaceable into your carry-on bag. If your checked bag gets lost or delayed, you will still have everything you need. Keep your carry-on within the airline size limit (typically 55x40x23 cm) to avoid being forced to check it at the gate.
2. Check the airline luggage allowance
Every airline is different. Read the luggage rules before you pack so you are not hit with surprise fees at the airport. Budget airlines in particular have strict carry-on weight limits that can catch you off guard.
3. Make copies of your important documents
Photograph your passport, visa, travel insurance, and flight confirmation and save them to your phone and email. If anything gets lost or stolen, you have digital backups ready to show at a consulate or airport counter.
4. Turn off mobile data before you land
Roaming charges abroad can be shocking. Switch off mobile data before you cross into a new country. Check whether your carrier offers an international plan or whether you should buy a local SIM at the airport.
5. Pack your own snacks
Airplane food varies wildly depending on the airline and the route. I always bring my own backup snacks in my carry-on. See my full guide to the best snacks to take on a plane for ideas that actually travel well and keep you full.
6. Bring a reusable water bottle
Fill it up at an airport fountain after you clear security. You will save money, reduce plastic waste, and stay better hydrated from the moment you board. Look for bottles that are compact and leakproof. Hydroflask and S'well are both great options and keep water cold for hours.
Some water bottles that I like are:
- Hydroflask
- Swell- Great for keeping the water cold all day!!
- Mini swell water bottle- I like the size, it is very portable
7. Bring a power bank for your electronics
Having a fully charged power bank is essential for long-haul flights so that you don't run out of juice on your laptop, phone, or other electronics. Just make sure that it meets the airline's regulations and fits into your carry-on!
The power bank that I am linking is the one I have brought with me to Europe the past 2 summers. It has always served me well, it is light and portable.
8. Pre-book your meal to avoid disappointment
If you are on a long-haul flight, there is usually the option to pre-book your meal. This way you can make sure that you get the meals of your choice and won't be stuck with something that doesn't suit your taste or dietary preferences.
Plus, it eliminates any hassle of waiting in line at the food counter during the flight!
9. Always carry local currency for emergencies
If you are traveling abroad, always make sure to carry some of the local currency in case of emergencies. This way you can easily pay if need be without having to worry about exchanging money on the spot. And if there is any change leftover, then at least it's not wasted!
10. Check in online and arrive early at the airport to avoid stress
Checking in online for your flight is always a good idea, especially if you are flying long-haul. This way you can save time and avoid the stress of having to wait in line at the airport.
Also, arriving early at the airport is recommended so that you have enough time to check in before your boarding time. It's also best to give yourself an extra buffer in case there is any last-minute rush or delay. This will ensure that you start your journey on the right foot!
What to Wear on a Long Haul Flight
11. Wear loose and comfortable 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-sleeved shirt, an extra thin long-sleeved shirt, and a jacket.
Because when you are traveling for more than 10 hours (including travel before the airplane and after), you want to be in clothes that provide comfort.
12. Bring a light shawl or blanket
It's always a good idea to carry a light shawl or blanket with you. It will come in handy when the plane gets cold and the air conditioner is blasting.
Just wrap it around your shoulders and you'll be all set. You can even use it as an extra cushion against any hard armrests!
13. Bring an eye mask and ear plugs
I always bring a night mask and earplugs 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.
How to Eat and Sleep on a Long Flight
14. Get a good night's sleep before the flight
If you are able to, try and get a good night's 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.
15. Time your meals and sleep according to your destination's time zone
It is very important to time your meals and sleep according to your destination's time zone. This helps you adjust more quickly and prevents jet lag.
For example, if you are flying eastward, try not to nap during the flight or eat too much during the day as it will be night at your destination. Instead, keep your body in sync with the local time by eating meals and sleeping at the right times. This will help you adjust more quickly when you arrive!
16. Bring eye drops and lip balm to prevent dryness.
Airplanes can be quite dry and this can cause your eyes and lips to become dry. To prevent this, make sure you bring some eye drops and lip balm with you on the flight. This will help keep your eyes hydrated and your lips feeling soft.
How to Choose the Right Seat for a Long Haul Flight
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.
17.Sit in the back of the plane
The back of the plane is statistically more likely to have empty rows, especially on routes that are not fully booked. An empty middle seat next to you means a much more comfortable flight. The trade-off is that the back is louder (near the engines) and takes longer to deplane.
18. Use air miles to upgrade
If you have accumulated enough air miles, you can use them to upgrade your seat. Flying first class or business class is definitely the most luxurious way to travel and can make a long-haul flight bearable!
It's also worth checking if there are any upgrades available before boarding; many airlines offer discounted last-minute upgrades that you can take advantage of for a more comfortable experience.
Pro Tip: You can also use a travel credit card to earn points that you can use towards your flight. I used the Chase Sapphire Preferred card spent $4,000 on my Europe trip, and got $1,000 in points towards future flights and hotels!!
How to Stay Hydrated on a Long Haul Flight
19. Drink plenty of water
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 times to use the bathroom and it can annoy the people that you are sitting next to.
20. Avoid excessive alcohol or caffeine as they can dehydrate you.
Consider skipping the wine. Alcohol dehydrates. Red wine will also give you a headache. I know there are those travelers who 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!
Health Tips for Long Haul Flights
21. Take a vitamin C supplement to boost your immune system.
It's always important to stay healthy when traveling, and one way you can do this is by taking a vitamin C supplement. Vitamin C helps to boost your immune system, which will protect you from getting sick while you travel.
22. Use hand sanitizers to keep your hands clean.
Using hand sanitizers is always a good idea when you are on the go. Planes can be a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses, so make sure to keep your hands as clean as possible.
23. Wear compression socks to prevent swelling.
Compression socks can help reduce swelling and promote circulation in your legs, which is especially important when you are sitting for long periods of time. Compression socks also help to prevent deep vein thrombosis, so it's always a good idea to wear them on flights!
What to Do on a Long Flight: Entertainment Ideas
24.Bring books or e-readers.
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.
I love bringing my kindle with me! It is also so light and perfect for reading at the beach!
25. Download podcasts
Make sure to download some podcasts or movies before your flight. This is a great way to pass the time and keep yourself entertained during the long flight. Having something to look forward to can help make the journey more enjoyable!
26. 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.
27. 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.
28. Download your favorite TV series or 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.
29. Download an offline map of your destination
If you are traveling to a new city or country it is always helpful to have an offline map of your destination. This way if you ever get lost and don't have any data connection, you can still navigate using the map and find your way back. I like to use Google Maps for that.
30. Pack a travel journal
This is a must!! I do this now on every trip so I can look back on everything. This is the journal that I used on my Europe trip: Click here.
31. Do crosswords or sudoku puzzles.
These are classic games that can help pass the time. And if you get bored of them, your travel companion can take a turn and try to solve them too.
32. Use the airplane's TV
Most planes have TV screens with pre-downloaded movies/shows. I ALWAYS like to binge their movies since they are typically newly released.
Long Haul Flight Comfort Tips
33. Use a neck pillow for better sleep
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.
34. Bring noise canceling headphones
Noise canceling headphones are a must-have for any long-haul flight. They help to block out all the engine noise and other disruptive sounds, so you can focus on getting some rest or listening to music.
35. Take a good sleep aid if you have trouble sleeping
If you have trouble sleeping, it is definitely best to take a sleep aid. If not, you could end up feeling jet-lagged and exhausted when your flight arrives at its destination. Some natural remedies include melatonin or valerian root supplements which help to promote relaxation and better sleep quality.
In-Flight Tips for Long Haul Travel
36.Choose a night flight if possible
Night flights are usually the best option for long- haul flights. It's much easier to get some rest or sleep when it's dark in the cabin, and chances are there will be fewer people on board.
37.Get up and move around every couple of hours
It's important to get up and move around every couple of hours, even if there is still a long way to go. Doing some stretches or walking around can help prevent stiffness in your legs and joints.
38.Use the in-flight amenities like blankets and pillows
Most airlines provide some basic amenities like blankets and pillows for long- haul flights, so make sure to take advantage of them! They can really help make your flight more comfortable.
In-flight Hygiene Tips
39.Bring wet wipes to keep refreshed
Bring some wet wipes with you and use them to wipe down your seat, tray table, armrests, and other surfaces. This will help to keep everything clean and germ- free during the flight.
40.Carry a toothbrush and mini toothpaste
Having a toothbrush handy is always a good idea. After eating, you can use the toothbrush and mini toothpaste to freshen up your mouth and feel more refreshed.
41.Pack travel-sized deodorant
Nobody likes to feel sweaty and sticky on an airplane, so make sure to pack a travel- sized deodorant that you can use during the flight. This will help to keep you feeling fresh and smelling good!
Long Haul Flight Packing List: Quick Summary
Here is everything worth having in your carry-on for a long haul flight:
- Reusable water bottle
- Power bank (fully charged)
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Neck pillow
- Eye mask and earplugs
- Lightweight blanket or shawl
- Compression socks
- Hand sanitizer (under 100ml)
- Wet wipes
- Eye drops
- Lip balm
- Travel toothbrush and mini toothpaste
- Travel-sized deodorant
- Vitamin C supplements
- Snacks (see best snacks to take on a plane)
- Kindle or book
- Downloaded movies, podcasts, and offline maps
- Travel journal
- Local currency for when you land
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 41 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!
FAQ'S
A long haul flight is generally defined as any flight lasting more than 6 to 7 hours. Flights between 6 and 12 hours are typically called long haul, while anything over 12 hours is often referred to as ultra-long haul. Most transatlantic flights from the US to Europe fall in the 7 to 11 hour range depending on departure city.
A 24-hour journey usually involves a connection, so you are not actually in the air for all 24 hours. But the key strategies are: sleep as much as possible (especially synced to your destination's night), stay hydrated, move around regularly, pack your own snacks and entertainment, wear compression socks, and arrive at your layover airport knowing your gate in advance. The more you prepare before you board, the easier the whole experience becomes.
Six hours is a medium-to-long haul flight and goes faster than you think with good planning. Watch two movies, listen to a podcast, read, sleep for part of it, eat your meal, do a few laps of the aisle. Breaking the flight into roughly one-hour segments with a different activity for each makes the time feel much shorter.
The combination that works best: a neck pillow, eye mask, earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, and a window seat so you are not disturbed by people getting up. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, do a short walk before settling in, and time your sleep attempt to match the night at your destination. Some people also find melatonin helpful for signaling to the body that it is time to sleep.
It depends entirely on your arrival time and destination time zone. If you are arriving in the morning (as is typical flying from the US to Europe), sleeping on the plane so you arrive rested and can push through to a normal local bedtime is the best strategy for avoiding jet lag. If you are arriving at night, staying awake on the plane so you are tired enough to sleep when you land can also work well.
Some of my personal recommendations for when you are traveling to Italy:
If you are planning on renting a car in Italy, it is important to do your research beforehand. There are several rental companies that offer competitive rates and good customer service. I recommend this car rental service.
If you are looking for a reliable travel insurance company, I would reccomend World Nomads Travel Insurance.
If you are looking to find a budget-friendly or even more luxury places to stay, I recommend Booking.com. My second favorite option is Airbnb.
On my Amazon storefront I also have a travel essentials section where I list everything you should pack with you for your next Italian vacation!
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