A long overseas flight can be tedious, but there are ways to make the time pass enjoyably, to travel comfortably even in coach and to ease jet lag. By bringing a few key items and knowing what to eat and drink, a traveler can arrive feeling relatively refreshed, instead of groggy and irritated after flying such a long distance in a cramped seat with little to do.
Instructions
Getting Ready
1. Pack a carry-on bag with essentials for your long flight. Toss in an engrossing paperback book; hardcovers are too heavy and cumbersome. A few magazines with interesting stories also are good to have.
Bring along an eyeshade to block glare from the cabin lights. If you don't like the idea of cloth covering your eyes, opt for dark sunglasses. Earplugs can block the noise of boisterous children and jet engines. Try out different kinds to determine which are most comfortable for your ears.
Airline headphones often are low quality and not comfortable, so bring your own earbuds or noise-canceling headphones for the in-flight entertainment.
Many people find it easier to relax with familiar items from home or don't like the idea of using the airline's items, so bring your own small travel pillow, cotton socks (in case the flight is cold) and a cotton wrap or scarf to throw over your shoulders. Lightly spritz your scarf with a soothing fragrance, such as lavender or ylang-ylang.
Pack some hand-sanitizing wipes and use them to clean your food tray. Always take a wipe with you to the lavatory.
Buy an over-the-counter sleep aid if you have trouble sleeping on aircraft.
2. Book a seat on the aisle so you can move about more easily and avoid leg cramps and puffy ankles. But if you want to sleep throughout the flight, book a window seat so you won't be disturbed if your seatmate needs to use the washroom. The window seat also gives you a place to rest your head.
3. Request vegetarian or low-sodium meals when booking to lessen jet lag's effects. Your body likely will feel better if you avoid processed meats, and salt will cause you to retain water, which can make you feel bloated and lethargic. In addition, special request meals generally taste better and usually are served before the other meals.
On the Plane
4. Keep the window shade down during daylight hours. Sunshine will only serve to remind your body that it's not time to sleep.
Free beer and wine are available on some international flights, but it's best to avoid them. Alcohol is dehydrating, especially when you fly. Stimulants, such as coffee, tea and soda, can inhibit your sleep. Request water when the drinks cart comes around; if you are offered only a cup, politely ask for a bottle so you can drink plenty of water over the next few hours. This also helps avert jet lag.
5. Take advantage of the in-flight entertainment screen. You can watch movies and TV shows, listen to music and play video games on the system, which many international flights offer. When you're not using the screen, leave your headphones on to cancel out as much noise as possible so you can doze off.
When you are not trying to sleep, take a stroll down the aisle occasionally to stay limber and avoid blood clots, but remain seated when the drinks or food carts are being wheeled around. There also are simple exercises you can do while seated, including rotating your ankles and wrists.
6. Get some work done. There are few distractions on a jetliner and there is plenty of time to be productive.
Write letters or send email to friends or complete business correspondence or other work. If you bring your laptop, be sure to pay attention to the flight attendants' instructions on when you may turn on electronic devices. On the return trip, you could spend your time importing and organizing photos from your trip.
Tags: bring your, in-flight entertainment, international flights, like idea, when drinks, window seat