If you’re an international traveler, long-haul flights are an uncomfortable reality: limited seats, limited legroom and minimal access to bathroom spaces often make these experiences somewhat difficult, even for the most adventurous. Even for seasoned jet-setters.
However, some simple life hacks can make those flights as enjoyable as a day at the spa (well, almost). Here are our top tips for surviving a long plane ride.
Pack your belongings wisely.
No one likes climbing over their seat mates to pull their headphones out of the overhead compartment. Use your personal item bag, whether it’s a purse or backpack, by keeping all the items you need during your flight within reach. Reduce the stress of rummaging through your bag by typing and organizing items into separate small bags: one for all your tech gadgets, one for toiletries, and one for snacks and food. Bonus tip: Make each of these bags a different, bright color so you can easily identify who you’re grabbing in the dark.
Prepare your technique before riding.
Prepare for your long trip by making sure to download all your books, music and movie media to your devices before you leave home. Airport Wi-Fi can be unreliable and extremely slow when it comes to downloading. Also, if you’re on an older plane without a power plug you might want to save your battery for the actual flight.
Once you’re on the plane, use nighttime mode to relieve the strain on your eyes in a dark cabin, and turn off your screens an hour before bed.
Bring the dupatta
Of course, most long-haul flights provide blankets and pillows, but we’ve found that packing a large, lightweight, multi-use scarf can be a useful travel hack when it comes to airplane comfort. Is. Use it as an extra layer if you get cold, as extra head/neck support, or even as an eyeshade if you’ve left your house. Also, a scarf is a great accessory to diversify your wardrobe once you arrive at your destination.
Pull it out.
Studies show that getting your body moving before a long flight is very beneficial, especially when it comes to getting a good night’s rest during the flight. If time permits, exercise before arriving at the airport. If you’re too busy with last-minute packing to hit the gym, take advantage of the layover by finding your airport’s yoga room (check Dallas, San Francisco, and Chicago O’Hare airports for specific locations). make noise); If there’s no yoga space, pack a thin travel yoga mat and find a quiet terminal corner to continue your stretch. We like Manduca Will Met Because it folds very flat and has enough grip for feet and hands.
Once you’re on the plane, get up every now and then to stretch your legs. Window seats can be visually appealing, but aisle seats give you easy access to much-needed mobility.
Water, water, water
Airplane air is notoriously dry, an element of flying that often leaves passengers feeling dry and headachey. While you obviously can’t bring full water bottles through security, pack a reusable water bottle that can be refilled just before your flight. Likewise, as tempting as free wine may be, you’ll sleep better if you opt for water with dinner instead.
Hydrate your skin too.
Hydration should not be limited to internal methods. Since airplane air humidity levels are similar to real deserts, take the time to care for your skin: Dry skin often becomes oily as it tries to rehydrate itself, leading to breakouts. can lead to and overall feeling of cynicism. Pack a light facial cleanser and either a hydrating serum or overnight cream moisturizer (we love this Lineage Water Mask for overnight hydration).
Cleanse again in the morning and apply a cooling, hydrating sheet mask of your choice for a little extra pampering. Your neighbor might wonder why you look like Hannibal Lecter, but you’ll have the last laugh when you land with happy, glowing skin.
Wear shoes that stretch.
Feet and legs often swell on planes due to blood pooling from inactivity, and tight, restrictive shoes can exacerbate the discomfort. Getting up and walking around the cabin is your best bet to reduce swelling, but a flexible shoe will also provide some welcome relief. We like All Birds Slip Ons – They’re full coverage and made from breathable, stretchable wool that regulates temperature and keeps your feet from feeling like a tightly wrapped burrito.
Adjust your sleep schedule to your destination.
While it may want to kill you the moment you get on the flight, especially if you’re departing at night, your body will thank you if you start your future sleep cycle at your new destination. Time your nap accordingly. Use the world clock on your phone to calculate the time difference and hold it until your times are ‘lined up’. Jet lag, go away!