How to Survive a Long-Haul Flight
Let’s be honest: long-haul flights in economy class aren’t the most comfortable experience. From cramped seats to limited legroom and long hours of sitting still, it can be a struggle. But with a bit of careful planning and the right packing list, surviving (and even thriving) on a long-haul flight is more than possible. Over the years, I’ve gathered a few tips and essentials that truly make a difference when it comes to flying long distances. Here’s my ultimate guide to surviving your next long-haul flight in economy class.
1. Compression Socks
Compression socks might not be the most fashionable accessory, but they’re an absolute game-changer for long flights. The lack of movement and high altitude can cause your feet and legs to swell. Compression socks help prevent this by promoting better blood flow, reducing swelling, and even lowering the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Don’t worry—they’re not as uncomfortable as they sound. Compression socks are lightweight, breathable, and come in a variety of styles and sizes, so you can find a pair that works for you.
2. Travel Pillow – Even If the Airline Provides One
Most airlines provide a travel pillow, but in my experience, they’re usually more of a “decoration” than a comfort aid. Airline pillows are often small, flimsy, and provide very little support for your neck and spine. To really get some quality rest, I recommend bringing your own travel pillow. But make use of both for ultimate comfort. Place one behind your neck and another behind your back to alleviate pressure on your spine when you’re trying to sleep upright. This strategy has saved me from back pain and neck stiffness on many long flights.
3. Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Not only are noise-cancelling headphones great for blocking out the loud sounds of the cabin, but they also help create a more serene environment by playing soothing sounds. I personally love to play white noise or rain sounds to help me drift off to sleep. These sounds mask the surrounding noise and create a calming atmosphere, making you forget you’re in a cramped cabin thousands of feet in the air.
4. Immunity-Boosting Kit
Airplanes are essentially germ factories. Between the recycled air, close quarters, and constant contact with shared surfaces, it’s easy to catch a cold or feel under the weather during your flight. To prevent this, I always take a few precautions to boost my immune system before I even board. A month or so before the flight, I start taking vitamins like Vitamin C and zinc to strengthen my immune system.
But that’s not all. I also pack an emergency first-aid kit for the flight itself, which includes:
Nasal Spray: Airplane cabins are very dry, and that can lead to blocked sinuses.
Ear Drops: Similar to nasal spray, ear drops are helpful for managing blocked ears and pressure changes during the flight. These can be a lifesaver when the cabin pressure causes that uncomfortable “popping” sensation. I try to use ear drops as more of a preventative measure, using them right before take-off and landing.
Cold and Flu Tablets: Just in case, I always pack a few cold and flu tablets. These can help relieve any symptoms if you start feeling sick, and they can be particularly helpful if you start getting a sore throat or runny nose.
5. Elevate Your Feet
While you may not have the luxury of lying flat during a long-haul flight, there’s still a simple trick to reduce swelling and make your legs feel more comfortable. I’ve found that resting my feet on a blanket or pillow during the flight is about as close to laying flat in economy class as you’ll get.
6. A Proper Sleeping Mask
If you’ve used the standard sleep mask provided by airlines, you’ll know they’re usually flat and have cheap elastics that dig in at the sides. But there’s a much better option: sleep masks with moulded eye cups. These masks are designed to lift the fabric off your face. The added benefit of eye cups is that they don’t press on your eyelids, so your eyes can blink and move naturally, making it feel like you’re in a pitch-black room. There are cheap options available, so don’t feel like you have to spend too much to get a good night’s sleep.
7. Just Sleep the Entire Flight
Here’s the trick I’ve learned the hard way: don’t fight your sleep schedule. I used to try to stay awake during the flight or sleep according to the “right” time zone to avoid jet lag, but this just messes with your body clock. Instead, I now aim to sleep as much of the flight as possible, or when I feel tired. Your sleeping pattern will be disrupted no matter what, so you’re better off just sleeping as much as possible and dealing with the consequences once you arrive at your destination.
8. Skip the Constant Snacking
On long-haul flights, the airline will usually serve meals every few hours, but that doesn’t mean you need to eat at every opportunity. The food is often heavy—think meat, potatoes, rice, and bread—and eating every time the food cart rolls by can leave you feeling sluggish, bloated, and uncomfortable by the end of the flight.
Instead, I recommend eating only when you’re truly hungry. Stick to light snacks, like fruit, nuts, or protein bars, to keep your energy levels steady without feeling weighed down. Hydrating with water is also a great way to stay alert and feel better throughout the journey.
9. Sleeping Pills – Your Emergency Backup
While you don’t necessarily have to take sleeping pills, it’s always good to have them as a backup. Over-the-counter sleeping pills are easily available at any pharmacy, and having them on hand can be a real lifesaver when you’re struggling to fall asleep in the uncomfortable conditions of an aeroplane. The noise, the uncomfortable seats, and the constant bright lights can all disrupt your sleep, so having a sleeping pill available just in case can help you get some much-needed rest. Just be sure to test them at home before your flight to see how you respond to them. This way, if you need to rely on them, you know exactly how it will affect you.
Bonus Tips:
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: Flying can dehydrate you, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the flight. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as these can make dehydration worse.
Stretch regularly: Every couple of hours, get up and stretch your legs. Walking down the aisle for a few minutes can do wonders for circulation and help reduce stiffness.
Bring healthy snacks: Stock up on healthy snacks like granola bars, nuts, or trail mix. These will keep you energized without the heaviness of airline meals.
With these essentials packed, you'll be prepared to survive, maybe even enjoy, your next long-haul flight in economy class. It may not be first class, but with a little thought and preparation, you can make the experience much more comfortable and less stressful.