8 Best Long Haul Flight Hacks To Beat Jetlag And Travel Comfortably
Flight hacks refer to strategies, tips, and tricks travelers use to save money on airfare, upgrade their travel experience, maximize their frequent flyer miles, and earn rewards.
These hacks can range from simple tactics, such as booking flights at the right time to more advanced strategies, such as finding mistake fares or using credit card rewards to earn free flights.
One typical flight hack is to book flights during off-peak periods or on weekdays when ticket prices are typically lower.
Another strategy is to use flight comparison websites to find the cheapest fares or to sign up for airline email alerts to receive discounted flight notifications.
Frequent flyers often use mileage programs to accumulate miles or points you can redeem for free flights, upgrades, or other rewards.
They may also take advantage of airline credit cards to earn bonus miles, free checked bags, or access to airport lounges.
However, it’s important to note that some flight hacks may have risks, such as using third-party booking sites or buying tickets from unofficial sources.
It’s always important to thoroughly research and use reputable websites to ensure safe and reliable travel.
For this article, let’s look at flight hacks that could help make your long hauls more comfortable and beat jetlag.
1 Choose your seat carefully.
Choose a seat that suits your needs, whether it’s a window seat to lean against the wall, an aisle seat for easy access to the restroom, or an exit row for extra legroom.
Choosing the best airplane seat depends on your personal preferences, the duration of the flight, and the type of aircraft you’re flying on.
Here are some tips to assist you in selecting the best seat on an airplane to travel comfortably.
Consider the aircraft type: Different aircraft have different seating configurations, and some seats may offer more legroom or a better view than others. Look up the seating plan for your flight online before you choose your seat.
Choose your seat location: Some people prefer window seats for the view, while others prefer aisle seats for easy restroom access and more legroom access. If you’re traveling with a companion, consider choosing two seats together.
Consider the flight length: For shorter flights, a standard seat may be fine, but for longer flights, consider upgrading to a seat with more legroom or recline.
Avoid seats near the restroom or galley: These seats may be convenient for easy access to the restroom or food, but they can also be noisy and disruptive.
Look for seats with extra features: Some airlines offer seats with additional features like extra legroom, power outlets, or entertainment screens. Consider choosing a seat with these features if they’re important to you.
Ultimately, the best airplane seat depends on your personal preferences and the specifics of your flight.
Take the time to research your options and choose the seat that will make your flight as comfortable as possible.
Choose your seat location carefully.
2 Pack a comfortable travel pillow and blanket.
Bring a travel pillow and blanket to help you sleep comfortably on the plane.
There are several reasons why packing a comfortable travel pillow and blanket on flights can be beneficial:
Comfort: Long flights can be uncomfortable, especially if you need help sleeping on planes. A comfortable travel pillow and blanket can help you relax and get some rest, making your flight more comfortable.
Hygiene: Airline pillows and blankets are often reused and not cleaned thoroughly between flights, which can be unhygienic. Bringing your pillow and blanket ensures you have a clean and fresh set of bedding to use during the flight.
Temperature control: Airlines often adjust the temperature on planes, and finding a comfortable temperature for everyone on board can be difficult. A blanket can help you regulate your body temperature and stay comfortable throughout the flight.
Neck and back support: Sitting in an airplane seat for an extended period can be hard on your neck and back. A travel pillow can provide much-needed support, reducing discomfort and helping you avoid stiffness or pain when you arrive at your destination.
Bringing your travel pillow and blanket can help you stay comfortable, relaxed, and healthy during long flights.
3 Dress Comfortably
Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes and slip-on shoes to make it easier to relax during the flight and travel comfortably.
It is also easier to get up and move around.
Dressing comfortably on a flight is important for several reasons.
Comfort: Long flights can be uncomfortable, especially when wearing tight or restrictive clothing. Dressing comfortably can help you relax and avoid unnecessary discomfort during the flight.
Health: Sitting in a cramped space for a long time can increase the risk of developing blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Blood flow can be improved, and the risk of these conditions can be reduced by dressing comfortably and in loose-fitting clothes.
Convenience: Dressing in comfortable clothing can make it easier to go through security and board the plane. You won’t have to worry about removing belts, jackets, or other accessories, which can slow down the process.
Temperature: Airplanes can be unpredictable when it comes to temperature, and you don’t want to be stuck in clothes that are too hot or too cold.
You can adjust to temperature variations and stay comfortable on the flight ey by dressing in layers.
Overall, dressing comfortably on a flight can help reduce stress and make the experience more enjoyable.
Wear slip-on shoes and loose-fitting, comfortable clothes you can layer.
4 Bring Your Entertainment
Download your favorite shows and movies onto your laptop or tablet, or bring a good book or crossword puzzles to keep yourself entertained during the flight.
There are several reasons why bringing your entertainment onboard a flight can be beneficial:
Pass the time: Flights can be long and tedious, especially long-haul flights. Bringing your entertainment onboard, such as books, movies, or games, can help pass the time and make the flight more enjoyable.
Save money: Many airlines charge for in-flight entertainment or WiFi, so bringing your joy can save you money. Additionally, getting snacks or meals can save you money compared to buying food onboard.
Provide more options: In-flight entertainment options may be limited, and they may only sometimes have something that interests you. By bringing your entertainment, you can choose from more options and tailor your entertainment to your preferences.
Provides comfort: Bringing your entertainment can provide comfort and familiarity, which can be especially helpful if you’re a nervous flyer. Having something to focus on, like a movie or book, can help take your mind off the flight and provide comfort.
Bringing your entertainment onboard a flight can enhance your experience, provide comfort, and save you money.
5 Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water before and during the flight to prevent dehydration, which can make you feel more tired and uncomfortable.
Staying hydrated during long flights is essential for several reasons:
Dehydration: The air inside the airplane cabin is dry and has low humidity, which can cause dehydration. Dehydration can lead to various issues, including headaches, dry skin, fatigue, and dizziness.
Blood Clots: Long durations of sitting in one place on a flight can increase the risk of developing blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water lowers this risk.
Immune System: Airplane cabins are notorious for being a breeding ground for germs. Dehydration can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness.
Jet Lag: Dehydration can also exacerbate the symptoms of jet lag, including fatigue, headaches, and dry skin. Stay hydrated during a long flight. It is recommended to drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and use moisturizer to prevent dry skin. It’s also important to get up and move around the cabin periodically to help prevent blood clots.
Stay hydrated during a long flight. Drink plenty of water and remember to moisturize.
6 Bring Healthy Snacks
Pack healthy snacks such as fruit, nuts, or granola bars to keep you fueled and satisfied throughout the flight.
While bringing healthy snacks onboard a flight is optional, it can be a good idea for a few reasons.
Firstly, many airlines only offer a limited selection of snacks, which may only sometimes be the healthiest option.
Bringing your snacks can ensure you have a choice of healthy, nutritious alternatives to keep you fueled throughout the flight.
Secondly, air travel can dehydrate, so drinking plenty of water and eating foods that will help keep you hydrated is important.
Some healthy snack options that can help with hydration include fresh fruit, vegetables, and nuts.
Finally, bring snacks to help you save money as these can be cost-effective, as airport and airline snacks are expensive.
You can avoid overspending on food and beverages during your flight by bringing healthy snacks.
While bringing healthy snacks onboard a flight is not strictly necessary, it can help you stay fueled and hydrated and save money in the long run.
Avoid caffeine during flights, eat a light meal, and drink water.
7 Stay Active
Get up, stretch your legs periodically, and exercise to keep your blood flowing.
Staying active during a long-haul flight is recommended to avoid blood clots and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Here are some tips to travel comfortably and keep active during a long-haul flight:
Walk around the cabin: Every hour or so, stroll to stretch your legs and maintain blood flow.
Do some simple exercises: You can do some simple exercises in your seat, like ankle and knee rotations, calf stretches, and shoulder rolls.
Stand up and stretch: Stand up and stretch your arms, legs, and back to improve circulation and relieve tension.
Use compression socks: Compression socks can help improve circulation and prevent swelling and DVT.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water. Avoid coffee and alcohol since these beverages can dehydrate you.
Pack a tennis ball: Roll a tennis ball under your feet to relieve tension and stimulate blood flow.
Before flying, check with your doctor for any medical conditions or concerns.
8 Adjust To The Local Time
Of all the flight hacks, the most important to remember is to beat jetlag.
If you’re traveling to a new time zone, adjust your sleep schedule to the local time as soon as possible, so you can start adjusting to the new time zone immediately.
Adjusting to the local time before you land at your destination can be very important, especially if traveling across multiple time zones.
It can help minimize the effects of jet lag and help you feel more alert and functional upon arrival.
When you travel across time zones – your body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm, can become disrupted, leading to symptoms like fatigue, insomnia, and difficulty concentrating.
These symptoms can make it difficult to enjoy your trip or get work done while traveling for business.
Adjusting to the local time before you land can help your body gradually adapt to the new time zone, making the transition smoother and reducing the severity of jet lag symptoms.
Some strategies to help you adjust include progressively shifting your sleep and wake times before your trip, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine.
While adjusting to the local time before you land may not be essential, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable and productive.
Adjust your watch and device to the local time before you land at your destination to beat jetlag.
Conclusion Best Flight Hacks
Flying long haul can be uncomfortable, but these flight hacks can help make the experience and journey more comfortable and less stressful.
Long hauls can be physically and mentally exhausting.
You need some tips to mitigate some of the challenges of extended travel times, especially jetlag.
Use these travel hacks to help beat jetlag, travel comfortably, save money, and earn rewards!
