Taking On Long-Haul Flights: How to Fly Comfortably and Land Feeling Your Best

Most avid travelers can agree upon the trials and tribulations of a long-haul flight. While the anticipation of embarking on a new journey certainly helps balance the woes that accompany airplane travel, it is still one last hurdle that stands between you and your dream destination.

An overseas flight will never be considered the pinnacle of relaxation, but these simple hacks will help alleviate the struggles and provide you with enough comfort to get you to your destination rested and ready to explore.

The first steps to a bearable travel day begin before you even leave the house. While wearing loungewear or loose-fitting clothing is an obvious, tried-and-true method to staying comfy on long flights, there are several other practical fashion choices one can make for an added level of preparation.

Because aircraft temperatures tend to fluctuate, wearing layers is a helpful practice to avoid unnecessary sweating or shivering for the duration of your flight. Cabins typically run colder while flying to avoid passengers overheating, but during boarding and deplaning temperatures can rise to uncomfortable levels. It doesn’t hurt to wear a t-shirt under that reliable cozy sweatshirt or throw a spare cardigan in your carry-on. If you run especially cold, large scarves or shawls that can double as blankets are another great addition to your packing list.

Swollen ankles are yet another common airplane nuisance that can easily be remedied with a simple accessory. Compression socks are proven to increase circulation throughout your feet and legs, which in turn reduces swelling and helps combat stiff joints upon landing.  

Due to high altitude and low humidity, a plane’s circulated cabin air can be quite harsh on your skin. Dry skin is an easily avoidable struggle; averting it will not only make your flight more comfortable, but your ensuing travels as well. No one wants to deal with the cracked lips or chapped knuckles that result after a lengthy plane ride while they’re on vacation. While a complete skincare routine may not be feasible in a tiny airplane restroom, there are a few flight-friendly products that make staying moisturized and fresh as easy as possible.

For hand and face lotions, look for products that include hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and other ingredients promoting extreme hydration to help withstand airplane air. Facial wipes and hydrating mists are other simple products to include in your carry-on toiletries that will not only prevent dry skin but help you feel refreshed and renewed after hours on a plane. Just be sure all your creams and liquids are TSA-approved (less than 100 mL). If you really want to go above and beyond, a long flight is the perfect time to throw on a hydrating sheet-mask or some eye patches. Finally, make sure to have lip balm handy throughout your flight and consider adding an extra-hydrating lip mask to apply while you sleep. 

Arguably the most difficult part about long-haul flights is finding a way to get comfortable enough to sleep. A neck-pillow is a seemingly obvious solution to this dilemma, but what many people don’t know is that this travel necessity has evolved beyond the basic U-shaped product that most people have relied on for decades of airplane transportation. Today, the neck-pillow market is loaded with a vast selection of options designed to fit specific sleeping preferences, whether you lean to one side, droop forward, or are constantly switching between positions (like me).

So instead of just grabbing the first one you see in the airport gift shop, do some research beforehand and invest in a pillow that will compliment you personally. Some popular ones include the TRTL Travel Pillow and the Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow.

Apart from the tried-and-true neck pillow, you can also find foot hammocks or inflatable footrests to add another layer of comfort to your sleeping arrangement. Elevating your feet helps improve circulation and alleviates lower-spine tension, both of which contribute to more restful sleep.  

Keep in mind that most airlines do not allow portable footrests in exit rows since they can become an obstacle in cases of emergency. Since policies differ among airlines, it may be beneficial to check beforehand if there are any other regulations regarding similar products. 

Additional sleep accessories include noise-cancelling headphones or ear plugs, as well as a sleep mask if you’re sensitive to lights. A good quality sleep mask can make all the difference, so consider investing in one that won’t be itchy or ill-fitting, like a pure silk one from Slip.

Comfort goes beyond just physical accommodations; it also includes combating boredom. These tips will ensure you’re equipped to stay entertained throughout your flight. Airplane outlets aren’t always the most reliable, so a portable charger will keep your electronics charged during your travels. Since most headphones nowadays are wireless, a Bluetooth adapter is a helpful tool to connect your personal headphones to your seatback entertainment. This is an especially handy trick if you want to keep using any noise-cancelling technology rather than the flimsy earphones they often provide you with on the plane. If your aircraft is lacking seatback entertainment, download your favorite movies or TV shows onto your phone or tablet using the corresponding streaming service applications. For those who love to read, a Kindle is a great accessory for when they dim the cabin and you feel guilty using the unnecessarily bright overhead light needed to read a book when your neighbor clearly is trying to sleep.  

There are several simple habits you can implement into your flight routine that will make a big difference in your overall experience. Standing up and stretching or walking down the aisle every few hours are great ways to keep the blood flowing. Staying hydrated helps prevent dry skin, headaches, and jetlag. Even what you eat plays a role.

By being aware of the challenges that come along with air travel and deliberate in the choices you make to tackle them, you are already one step closer to mastering the art of taking on long-haul flights.