A Smooth and Pleasant Experience: The Essentials You Need for Long Flights

Travelling a long way on an aeroplane used to be something only very fortunate people could do. But, these days, with flights being much more affordable and this amazing planet of ours becoming ever-more accessible as a result, we’re seeing increasing numbers of people jetting off on long hauls. Which means that if you want to volunteer in Africa, it's more accessible now too!

If like us, you want your journey to be the most enjoyable one it can be while you’re flying long distances, then it’s well worth thinking about adopting some of the slices of advice we have to offer.  

Flying shouldn’t be a chore; it should be the beginning of the adventure, and even if a long flight is just something that features on your bucket list, it’s there to be appreciated as the first part of some relaxing downtime.  

Take a look and see what tips we have that can make your flight the smoothest, most pleasant one possible… 

Getting Comfy Comes First

Comfort is everything! Walk through any airport and you’ll see the waves and waves of people making their way to the plane in the comfiest clothes they own.  

This has become such a big thing that fashion labels have cottoned on, and you can buy items of clothing specifically for flying!  

Just like having the ideal pillows for optimum sleep on your bed at home is essential, It’s also important to have the same kind of luxury to assist in making your flight a pleasurable one. 

If you don’t fancy forking out for flight-specific garments, just think about what you’d lounge around at home in, after all, that’s when you’re probably at your most relaxed. So, sweatpants or shorts and an airy top to that won’t agitate you or feel too restrictive are good. It’s worth having items of clothing that can help you layer up or down depending on whether you’re feeling warmer or cooler.  

Hydration, Hydration, Hydration

Amid the excitement of cruising off to a luxurious destination, staying well-hydrated can take a back seat, which is the last place it should be.  

Cabin spaces on planes are notorious for being very dry, meaning there’s an increased chance of you getting dehydrated. The solution? It’s simply to make sure that you take plenty of water onboard. Remember to do so slowly and not to drink lots in a small space of time or you’ll just need to frequent the toilets more than you should.  

Coffee, tea, and yes, we’re sorry to say, alcohol, are all types of drinks that needed to be regulated. Aim to bring a bottle of water onboard if you can (it’ll likely need to be bought at the airport and stay sealed until you're on the flight due to liquid restrictions).  

Moisturise

A quick tip to add to the previous one is that the dry cabin atmosphere can also cause your skin to dry out. Give your skin a refreshing boost by bringing a small tube of moisturiser to apply to your face and neck to overcome the dryness.  

Get Your Body Ready

In the lead up to your flight date, particularly the day before, consider taking part in some level of physical activity. 

You can be as low-key or active as you like with this, but a brisk walk or some time spent doing Yoga is usually effective. Don’t forget that you’re going to be sitting for long periods; on the way to the airport, in the lounges, on the plane itself, etc., so having a good stretch the day before is certainly advisable.  

Have a decent night’s sleep too. This is infamously hard for lots of people due to excitement/nerves and the whole anticipation of their trip, but if you try and starve yourself of rest can have the opposite of the desired effect. 

Entertain Yourself

While there might well be a whole list of movies available on the flight, you might want to choose your own entertainment.  

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with having your laptop or tablet to hand with films, literature and music that you know you like in order to help pass the time and make your flight as satisfying as possible.  

Seat Selection

This isn’t a revolutionary tip, but it’s one that should be taken into account, nonetheless. By ensuring you have a seat in a location you’re happiest with, you’re far more likely to have a good flight.  

If it’s sleeping you like doing while flying, then we’d suggest a window seat. If you like the convenience of getting up to visit the bathroom or sneaking that little bit of extra leg space (albeit just the one leg) then the aisle seat is the one for you.