How to Stay Comfortable on Long Travel Days: Tips and Tricks
Your ultimate guide to making long flights more enjoyable, packed with personal experiences and practical advice. 😊
Long travel days can be exhausting, am I right? Trust me, I’ve been there. I’ve experienced more unpleasant flights than I’d like to admit (hello, pink eye 🙄). So, if you’re an avid traveler or just want to make your upcoming trip a little more bearable, this blog post is for you! We’ll cover everything from planning for comfort to in-flight entertainment.
Planning for Comfort
When it comes to staying comfortable on long travel days, planning ahead is key.
Fail to plan, plan to fail, as they say. Spend some time considering the below factors before your trip, and you’ll thank yourself later.
Here are a few tips to help you plan for a comfortable journey.
Choosing the Right Outfit
On my last 12-hour flight, I found myself squeezed into skinny jeans and a too-tight top.
Nightmare? You bet.
Don’t make my mistake. Opt for loose, stretchy, and layered clothing, like leggings, a comfy t-shirt, and a sweater to throw on and off as necessary.
Oh, and don’t forget non-constricting socks and slip-on shoes!
Trust me on this one.
Packing Essentials
In addition to choosing the right outfit, packing the right essentials can make a big difference in your comfort level during long travel days. Here are a few items to consider packing:
- Neck pillow: A neck pillow can help you get some rest and prevent neck strain during long flights.
- Eye mask: An eye mask can help block out light and make it easier to sleep on the plane.
- Scarf or shawl: A scarf or shawl can double as a blanket or extra layer for warmth.
- Glasses or contacts: If you wear glasses or contacts, be sure to bring an extra pair in case of loss or damage.
- Snacks and water: Pack some healthy snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and nourished on the go.
By planning ahead and packing the right essentials, you can ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. Don’t forget to check in early and arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare.
Seat Selection
If possible, choose your seat when booking or checking in.
Aisle seats are ideal if you plan on walking around a lot.
Window seats offer a place to lean your head for a snooze and slightly less neighbour disturbance. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Seat selection is crucial when it comes to staying comfortable on long travel days.
Here are some tips to help you choose the best seat possible:
Understanding Seat Types
et’s break it down, shall we?
- Economy: Standard fare and the most common seat type. Expect minimal legroom and basic in-flight services.
- Premium Economy: A small step up from economy with extra legroom and sometimes additional perks like priority boarding or improved meal options.
- Business: Spacious seats that often recline fully, better food, and a higher level of service. Yes, please.
- First Class: Lavish, with lie-flat beds, fine dining, and other luxurious amenities. If you can swing it, go for it (and take me with you)! 😜
Dealing with Middle Seat
Ah, the dreaded middle seat. Sometimes, no amount of planning can save you from ending up in purgatory between two strangers. In these cases, use these tactics to make the best of it:
- Introduce yourself to your seatmates as a way to break the ice.
- Bring a few inflatable pillows to create a more comfortable space.
- Use noise-canceling headphones or earplugs to drown out distractions.
Additionally, consider using a neck pillow or bringing your own blanket to make the seat more comfortable.
Overall, when selecting your seat, try to choose an aisle or window seat if possible, and avoid the middle seat if you can.
If you’re flying economy, consider paying a bit more for extra legroom or using an app like SeatGuru to find the best seats on your aircraft.
Hydration and Nutrition
When it comes to long travel days, it’s important to stay hydrated and nourished. Here are some tips to help you stay comfortable and healthy during your journey.
Staying Hydrated
Dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches, and muscle cramps, which can make long travel days even more uncomfortable. To avoid dehydration, be sure to drink plenty of water throughout your journey. You can bring a reusable water bottle with you and fill it up as needed at water fountains or cafes. Aim to drink at least 8 ounces of water every hour to stay properly hydrated.
In addition to water, you can also drink other hydrating beverages such as coconut water or herbal tea. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks such as coffee and soda, as they can dehydrate you further.
Healthy Snacking
Snacking on the right foods can help keep your energy levels up and prevent hunger pangs during long travel days. Pack some healthy snacks in your carry-on bag, such as nuts, protein bars, or fresh fruit. Avoid sugary snacks and processed foods, as they can cause a sugar crash and leave you feeling sluggish.
If you’re traveling internationally, try some of the local cuisine for a unique and healthy snack option. Just be sure to avoid street food or anything that may be undercooked or unsanitary.
By staying hydrated and nourished, you can make your long travel days more comfortable and enjoyable. Don’t forget to pack a water bottle and some healthy snacks for the journey!
In-Flight Comfort
When it comes to staying comfortable on long travel days, in-flight comfort is crucial. Here are a few tips to help you manage temperature and sleep better on long flights.
Managing Temperature
Temperature can be a major issue on flights, so it’s important to be prepared. Dress in layers so you can adjust your clothing as needed. Bring a blanket or travel pillow to keep warm, and consider packing an eye mask to block out any bright lights that may interfere with your sleep.
If you tend to get too hot or too cold easily, consider bringing a small fan or personal heater to help regulate the temperature around you. You can also ask the flight attendant for an extra blanket or to adjust the temperature if it’s too hot or cold.
Sleeping on Long Flights
Getting some sleep on a long flight can help you arrive at your destination feeling more rested and refreshed. To help you sleep better, consider using a neck pillow or travel pillow to support your head and neck. This can help prevent neck pain and discomfort.
If you have trouble sleeping on planes, consider using earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones to block out any noise that may be keeping you awake. You can also try using a calming essential oil or aromatherapy to help you relax and fall asleep more easily.
Overall, staying comfortable on long travel days requires a bit of preparation and planning. By following these tips and packing the right gear, you can make your next long flight more enjoyable and restful.
In-Flight Entertainment
When you’re on a long flight, one of the best ways to stay comfortable is to keep yourself entertained. Fortunately, most airlines offer in-flight entertainment, which can include movies, TV shows, music, and more. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your in-flight entertainment options.
Books and Audiobooks
If you’re a fan of reading, bring a book or two with you on the flight. Alternatively, you can download audiobooks to your phone or tablet. This is a great way to pass the time and keep your mind engaged. Plus, if you’re using headphones, it can help drown out any noise from the plane.
Movies and Podcasts
Most airlines offer a selection of movies and TV shows to watch during the flight. Some even offer streaming services like Netflix or Spotify. If you prefer audio content, consider downloading some podcasts to your device before the flight. This is a great way to stay entertained and informed.
When it comes to in-flight entertainment, noise-canceling headphones can be a game-changer. They can help block out the sound of the plane and make it easier to hear your audio content. Additionally, some airlines offer their own noise-canceling headphones for use during the flight.
Overall, taking advantage of in-flight entertainment is a great way to make your travel day more comfortable. Whether you prefer books, movies, or podcasts, there are plenty of options available to keep you entertained.
Health Considerations
Long travel days can take a toll on your health. Here are some health considerations to keep in mind to help you stay comfortable during your journey.
Preventing Jet Lag
Jet lag can be a huge challenge when traveling across time zones, and can leave you feeling groggy and disorganized for days on end. To minimize the effects of jet lag, try these tips:
- Start adjusting your sleep schedule before you leave. A few days before your trip, slowly begin adjusting your bedtime and wake-up time to coincide with your destination’s timezone.
- Stay hydrated. Dehydration can exacerbate jet lag symptoms, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout your trip.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol. These substances can further disrupt your sleep schedule and make it harder for your body to adjust.
- Get some sun. Exposure to natural light can help reset your internal clock and reduce jet lag symptoms.
Avoiding Circulation Problems
Sitting for long periods can lead to circulation issues, causing discomfort, swelling, and even more serious health risks like Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). To keep your blood flowing and stay comfortable on long trips, try these tips:
- Wear compression socks. These can help improve blood flow and reduce swelling in your legs during long journeys.
- Take regular breaks to move. Stand up, stretch, and walk around your travel space every hour or so to keep your blood flowing.
- Stay active before and after your trip. Regular exercise can improve circulation, making it easier for your body to cope with the strains of long travel days.
Sitting for extended periods of time can lead to circulation problems, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). To avoid DVT, wear compression socks or stockings, which can help improve blood flow in your legs. Additionally, try to get up and move around the cabin every hour or so to stretch your legs and get your blood flowing. You can also do some simple exercises while seated, such as ankle circles and leg lifts.
Remember to prioritize your health during long travel days to ensure that you arrive at your destination feeling comfortable and ready to enjoy your trip.
Additional Tips and Tricks
Aside from the tips and tricks mentioned earlier, there are still a few more things you can do to ensure a comfortable long-haul flight.
Firstly, don’t hesitate to ask the flight attendants for assistance. They are there to help you and make your flight as comfortable as possible. If you need an extra blanket or pillow, or if you have any questions or concerns, just ask.
Bringing your own wipes and toiletries can also make a big difference in your comfort level. Use the wipes to freshen up throughout the flight and the toiletries to keep yourself feeling clean and refreshed.
Consider bringing a foot sling or footrest to help improve circulation and reduce swelling in your legs. This can be especially helpful on longer flights.
If you’re prone to ear discomfort during takeoff and landing, be sure to bring earplugs or gum to help alleviate the pressure.
Mints or other small snacks can also be helpful in keeping your mouth feeling fresh and hydrated during the flight.
Lastly, don’t forget to dress comfortably. Consider wearing a sweatshirt or layers that you can easily remove if you get too warm. And if you’re flying in economy, avoid making the mistake of wearing tight or restrictive clothing.
Overall, with these additional tips and tricks, you can make your long-haul or international flight much more comfortable and enjoyable.
Conclusion
In conclusion,
Dress for Comfort (Not Style). Face it; no one is going to judge you for what you’re wearing on an 18-hour flight. And you really don’t want to be stuck in tight jeans or uncomfortable shoes when you’re settling in for a long journey. So, make sure to dress for comfort. You might not win any fashion awards, but an outfit like yoga pants or leggings, a comfy t-shirt, a warm hoodie or sweater, and your favourite pair of sneakers can make all the difference.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate.
Pack Snacks, and Pack ‘Em Smart
Have you ever been stuck on a plane or train with nothing but overpriced and unappetizing food options? Yep, I’ve been there too. The solution? Always pack some snacks! Just make sure you choose healthy options that are easy to take with you. Some of my favorites include nuts, dried fruit, granola bars, and dark chocolate. Having your trusty stash of snacks can save you from hunger and make those long hours of travel more bearable.
Bring Entertainment to Keep You Busy
Let’s be honest, those in-flight movies can sometimes be less than thrilling. So, make sure to pack your own entertainment! This could be a good book, your favorite playlist, or even some downloaded episodes of that show you’ve been dying to binge-watch. Just make sure to bring headphones or earbuds and, if you’re relying on your phone or tablet, a backup charger (like a portable power bank) to keep everything powered up. I never leave home without my trusty noise-cancelling headphones; they’re a lifesaver when I need to block out the world and focus on my entertainment.
Invest in a Cozy Travel Pillow
Believe me, I’ve tried almost every travel pillow out there, and there’s no doubt that the right pillow can make all the difference in getting some much-needed rest on a long trip.
If you follow this guide filled with life-saving travel hacks, you won’t have to suffer through the discomfort of long-haul travel anymore. Say goodbye to cramped legs, and hello to a great traveling experience!
