the most seasoned traveller will admit that a long-haul flight can be rough. But it will all be worthwhile in the end, once you arrive at your dream destination. Here are a few tips to make sure you get there feeling and looking great.
1. Wear comfortable clothes
It’s a long, long flight so you’ll want to be in something as close to a pyjama as possible. Think loose clothing that won’t cut off any circulation, slip-on shoes that can withstand the swelling of your feet, and thick wool or compression socks.
2. Bring something warm with you
Aeroplanes can get quite chilly, and the last thing you need is to spend a 12h+ flight with your teeth chattering. Bring a scarf, a light jacket or even a blanket to make sure you’re as cosy as can be.
3. Entertain yourself
Some airlines have personal entertainment systems with free movies and music available on long-haul flights, but if nothing on the menu appeals, you’ll be bored to tears. Netflix downloads, personal Spotify playlists or podcasts, or a thick juicy read will make the time fly by so much faster.
4. Pack a snack
You can buy food from the airline, but if you’ve got a specific or restricted diet, it may be difficult to find something you can eat which won’t make you feel ill. Pack some protein-rich snacks with complex carbs such as mixed nuts or protein bars to fuel you through your journey.
5. Get some shut-eye
Getting rest during your flight is important. Bring your own travel neck pillow, an eye mask to block out the light, earplugs, and even a light sleeping aid such as melatonin to really help you catch those zzzs.
6. Acclimatise to local time
Set your clocks to the local time in your destination as soon as you board, resting as if you were already there. It may mean that you’ll need to wake yourself up after a few short hours of rest, but it will ultimately make you feel better, and help you beat any residual jetlag.
7. Stay fresh
After a long flight, chances are you’ll feel a bit bedraggled, so having a few items with you to help you freshen up will perk you up, big time. There’s no need to over-pack – a toothbrush, toothpaste, facial wipes, a travel-sized deodorant, lip balm and moisturiser are enough to do the trick.
8. Don’t overbooze
You may decide to treat yourself to a well-deserved cocktail or two while you’re in the air, but it’s worth remembering that booze has much stronger effects and is a lot more dehydrating in the air than on land. Be sure to be reasonable about your alcohol intake and double up on water while flying!