I’ve been a frequent international traveler ever since I can remember.  According to my mom, even before I was born! I went on my first international trip at the age of three when my dad took my mom and I to London for his work trip.  As I grew older, we would frequent between Bangladesh and America since all of my mom’s family lives here. 

Singapore, Dubai, and Saudi are some of the places I’ve traveled to with my family. My most recent trip was to Mumbai early this year.

International trips are fun, but no one wants to sit through a flight for ten-plus hours.  Did you know a flight from Los Angeles to Singapore is 19 hours?! Imagine sitting for 19 hours!

As much as I love traveling by air and international flights, because of my chronic knee and back pain, it’s hard for me to enjoy my flights.  Here are some steps I have taken over the years to make the flight easier. 

These are ten easy steps you can take to make long flights easier.

1. Book Early

 The sooner you book, the better your chance of selecting good seats.  I highly suggest getting premium economy seats (if you are traveling Economy Class).  Those seats are lovely when it comes to sleeping and better overall because of their legroom. 

2. Check-in Early

When booking your flight, select flights that land in the daytime.  I have flown both daytime and nighttime flights.  Trust me when I say there is a vast difference.  Landing during the day or even late afternoon gives you plenty of time to recuperate.

3.Prepare for Jet Lag

Check what the time difference is between your home and your destination and adjust your sleep cycle accordingly three days before your trip. Changing your sleep cycle will help you with jet lag.

4.Destress

Find ways to relax before your flight.  Try meditation, exercise, read a book, nap, or watch a movie.

5.Buy a Travel Pillow and Noise Cancelling Headphones

Those travel pillows make all the difference.  During our Boston trip, my sister bought one for herself, and I bought one as well, and I’m so glad I did.  They help a lot; it makes sleeping sitting up tolerable. Noise Cancelling Headphones are another great accessory to have while traveling.

6. Dress Comfortably

Wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes. Keep a light jacket with you; the cabin air does get chilly, and if you are like me, who starts to feel cold within minutes, then it’s a good idea to keep something warm.

7. Rest During Layovers

If your flight has a stopover and you have adequate time, take this opportunity to eat correctly and get some rest.  Most International airlines have lounges and recliners throughout the airport for passengers to rest in between flights. When booking your ticket, ask the airline if they provide hotel vouchers for layovers exceeding 4 hours, for the day or overnight.  Many airlines prefer you to book your stay in advance.  Many airlines, such as Singapore Airlines and Emirate, have airport hotels that you can book.

8. Stay Healthy

It’s very crucial to stay hydrated; opt for water and juice as much as possible.  Most international flights change the ambiance of the plane to help you eat and sleep on time.  When they serve breakfast, eat it and when they dim the lights at night, try to rest. Walk around the cabin every two hours (if possible) but do get out of your seat periodically. 

9. Maintain Your Hygiene

Every international flight will provide you with hygiene bag which will have a toothbrush, toothpaste, socks and some even have eye masks.  Utilize it, it’s for your use.

10. Pack a Few Activities

If you are traveling with your little ones, then pack a few activities for them to do. There are unlimited in-flight entertainment options but do keep some physical activities for them to do such as a coloring book, simple puzzles or toys that they like playing with. This is something you can do for yourself as well, I like to bring a book with me to read on the flight so I’m not staring at the screen for too long.

Long flights can be exhausting, if not overwhelming at times. The best way to ensure you arrive refreshed at your destination is to be well prepared. I hope this blog helps you do just that. I would love to hear some of the ways you like to prepare for long flights.

Happy Journey!