Checklist to survive your next long-haul flight
Whether you’re looking to get to the other side of the world or want to know what it feels like to be a sardine, sometimes catching a long haul economy flight is a necessary evil.
That being said, there are things you can do to make these flights a lot less painful. Follow the six tips outlined below and your next long haul flight will be a breeze, rather than the sort of experience you recount to a psychiatrist in 10 years’ time.
1. Dress comfortably
A long haul flight isn’t the time to be breaking in your new spandex jumpsuit. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that will allow you to relax in your chair and stretch out.
2. Quench your thirst
Don't rely on flight attendants. Control your hydration and quench your thirst regularly by bringing your own supply of water (purchased after the security screening of course).
3. Kit out your flight survival kit
Fill a flight survival kit with essential comfort items like ear plugs, a face mask, book, lip balm, a toiletry kit and a neck pillow.
4. Stretch and perform exercises
Deep vein thrombosis is a risk everybody on a long haul flight is taking, so make sure you take plenty of time to stretch and perform the recommended muscle exercises.
5. Lay off the booze
This might be especially difficult for nervous flyers, but go easy on the sauce if you’re headed on a long haul flight.
6. Pack efficiently
Make sure you’ve got a secure bag that has plenty of space to fit all your essential items so your legs aren't cramped and you're not invading too much of the personal space of the stranger sitting next to you/soon to be mortal enemy.
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