If you ask anyone who is a frequent long-haul flyer what is the best way to make the most of your time in the air, they will all give you a different answer. The fact of the matter is that whatever works for you is the best policy however, if you’re not used to long-haul then you may not have the chance to learn from your mistakes prior to taking your next trip.
The advice given below is the culmination of many years of experience and if you’re heading off on your holidays any time soon then just following a couple of the points will no doubt stand you in good stead for when you arrive at your final destination.
Minimal hand luggage
First and foremost when undertaking a long-haul flight – don’t get bogged down with too much stuff. Just keep your belongings in a small over-the-shoulder bag with essential items, such as: books, ear plugs and head phones close to the top or in an outer pocket. No more struggling with overhead lockers and bulky bags for you, simply stow under your seat and then sit back and relax.
Wax ear plugs
Without doubt, ear plugs that are made from wax are definitely the way forward if you’re planning on getting any peace and quiet on any long-haul flight. Wax plugs fit to the shape of your inner-ear and can be easily removed and replaced without too much bother. Much better than the polystyrene equivalent, inexpensive and small enough to put in your pocket.
Research
When on-board it’s a great idea to find out more about the country or city that you’re visiting. In this way you can really hit the ground running as from learning new words and phraseology to getting excited about what you’re going to visit; doing your research in the air will make your flight all the more meaningful. Top tip: ask a steward or stewardess for their advice on what to see and do upon landing.
Get cozy
It’s up to you whether you want to shut your eyes and dream away the flight but if you want to really do it properly then you certainly shouldn’t rely on air plane blankets and pillows to help you out. Bring your own pillow case, favorite socks or slippers and a change of clothes (pajamas if you’re brave enough) and build yourself a little nest where you can get all cozy in the air.
Don’t over indulge
To some, the prospect of ‘free’ in-flight food and drink is seen as a green light to eat as much as humanely possible however, if you want to avoid feeling bloated and arriving with a hang-over or worse, then the best thing to do is avoid alcohol, drink plenty of water and only eat the bare minimum. Arriving hungry isn’t a bad thing and means that your body has been working whilst you’ve been inactive.
Keep to a routine
If you know how long your flight is going to take then you can start to plan your journey in advance and sticking to a routine is definitely the best policy if you’re hoping to arrive rested and revived as opposed to bored and restless. Planning by the hour or every couple of hours is a great idea and having plenty of things to look forward to keeps your mind occupied as you tick off your activities as you fly through the clouds.
Exercise your mind, body and soul
Get up and walk about or undertake some simple stretching exercises that can be performed in your seat – whichever way you want to keep your body active, building exercise into your in-flight plan is certainly best advice. Also, don’t forget to work your mind too as from meditative music to reading about the history of the country that you’re visiting, ensuring that your entire being is taken care of will ensure your flight is as useful as it will be enjoyable.
Follow local timings
Finally, anyone who’s undertaken more than one long-haul flight will tell you that the key to avoiding jet-lag is to set your phone, watch or lap-top to local time from the moment that you step foot on the plane. Whatever the time difference of your chosen destination you should follow what the locals do from the moment you arrive i.e. sleep if it’s the night and do your best to stay awake if you touch down in the daytime.
Chris has been on numerous long-haul flights to America, Australia and Asia so has a rough idea what he’s talking about although throwing a couple of kids into the mix can mess up the best laid plans of any frequent long-haul flyer!
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