What is a long-haul flight?
Airlines often classify commercial flight durations into long-haul, medium-haul, and short-haul. Short-haul flights are typically defined as being less than 600-800 nautical miles (1,100-1,500 km) despite lacking an international standard. Long-haul is defined as more than 2,200-2,600 nautical miles (4100-4800 km) or 2,200-2,600 km. The term medium-haul is used to describe any flight between those two. We’ve compiled a list of travel tips for long-haul trips that are becoming more common.
How to Survive Long-Haul Flights
Long-distance travelers, be prepared: commercial airlines are putting pressure on you to spend more time in an aircraft. The 18-hour-and-40-minute flight from JFK Airport to Singapore is one of the world’s longest scheduled passenger flights.
It is hard to believe that passengers can spend two days in the air. The world is only open to the adventurous traveler who can endure long-haul flights.
The key is to know how to maximize your time. Even the most devoted couch potatoes can be shattered by 18 hours of TV and movies. Nobody should plan to sleep the equivalent of 2 full days. For those of you preparing to embark on a journey that will take them a considerable distance, we have some tips for making those double-digit hours fly by or at least pass with reasonable comfort.
Comfortable Clothes are the Best Option
Wear loose, casual clothing and open-toed or removable shoes. You can also keep an extra shirt or pair of pants in your carry-on. You can easily change clothes when you reach your destination. Some clothing companies design long-haul flight trousers for travelers if comfort is essential. So pick up a couple in advance. Dress in layers. The cabin temperature can fluctuate between the plane’s gate and the sky. Bring a wrap if you are worried about it getting cold, and no extra blankets.
Buy your ticket early & choose a comfortable seat
By purchasing your airline tickets early, you can save money and have the most excellent flexibility in choosing your seat. Even for short-haul flights, most travelers agree that the middle seats are not ideal. Window seats are ideal for people who tend to fall asleep quickly. Seats along the aisle are suitable for travelers who frequently need to use the bathroom, such as those with young children. Exit rows may have less room than you think. One of the best methods to maximize your seating options is to purchase your tickets early.
Upgrade Your Home in Any Way You Can
You’re likely not flying in first or business class if you’re like most travelers. If you can afford to upgrade, we recommend that you do. Upgrades are not cost-effective for short-haul flights, as the benefits will only last a few hours. However, it may be worth the extra expense if you plan to be on the flight for more than 18 hours. Long-haul flights are more likely to offer in-flight meals, which can be more carb-laden and uncomfortable for your stomach. You may pay a little more for healthier alternatives if you can. You can purchase more nutritious snacks in advance.
Pack a travel pillow, sleep mask & earplugs
While some airlines provide passengers with complimentary travel accessories such as travel pillows and earplugs, buying these items in advance could be a lifesaver. These favorable items are often the first to be exhausted on crowded flights. In some cases, they can also be of poor quality. If you want to sleep well, you need an excellent pillow and earplugs which stay in. You may think cutting corners on travel accessories is a perfect way to save money, but in the long run, you will end up paying for it.
Get used to the new time zone
You can pretend to be in the new time zone once you board an airplane. You can beat jet lag by doing this. Mind-over matter has something to do. You can change the time zone on your watch, phone, and laptop to match your destination. Choose a time when you can sleep comfortably in the new time zone if you plan to do so. This can be applied to meals. You can also use this to eating meals. You may not be able to get help from the airline, but you can put your food on hold until you reach your destination. Remember to clean your teeth as you would any other time over 8 hours.
Bring Your Own Entertainment
The small screen on the plane may be filled with fantastic entertainment. But nothing can beat your own carefully curated enjoyment. Bring along some magazines or books. Download your favorite podcasts, movies, or shows to your tablet or smartphone. Bring a portable charger and any necessary cables. Bring your headphones and earbuds if the complimentary options are not up to par. If you plan to sleep on the plane, bring noise-canceling headphones or a white noise application to help block out other passengers. You can also strain your eyes by staring at a screen all day. So, consider switching between digital and analog entertainment (e.g., Paper books and digital games (e.g., tablet games). Packing the right entertainment for your kids is essential if you travel long distances with them!
Stretch your legs & stay hydrated
It would be best to make drinking water and walking every few hours a habit. Stretching your neck, arms, and legs is an excellent way to reduce stress and prevent muscle pain. No one wants to begin or end their trip with a strain of the muscles. Also, we recommend avoiding caffeine and Alcohol as they can dehydrate your body. This is especially true with increased consumption. Remember to moisturize your skin.
Be Prepared Mentally & Courteous
Stress from a long-haul trip is hard on everyone, even fellow passengers and flight crew. Rest is essential to prepare yourself for a long-haul flight. It is not only good for your physical but also your mental health. You can become irritable if you are tired, stressed, or hungry. Being in the right mindset can help you and others on the flight feel more comfortable. Everyone is experiencing similar levels of stress. Respect your fellow passengers, flight attendants, and staff. Being a jerk for the first hour of the flight will make it long. It is rewarding to travel long distances, but not without its hiccups. Consider flight coverage for even greater peace of mind.
