Long Flights? No Problem!
Hi guys,
It’s this time of the year again when I have to book my flight to go back home for Christmas. So a few days ago I was going through some airline websites, searching for a flight to Greece. My number one concern every time I have to go home is the duration of the flight because there is nothing worse than sitting on a plane for many (too many) hours. And guess what!? Usually, a trip to Greece takes between 16 to 30 hours depending on the airline.
After booking my flight I realized that I have to be on an airplane (3 airplanes to be exact) for 19 hours and those 19 hours are not going to be easy. Thankfully, I’ve done this trip many times so I know some small tips to make my trip a little easier. So, here I’m sharing 15 great tips that will help you survive your long flights.
Tip #1: Pack snacks
There is nothing worse than hating the food on the plane (it’s usually bad) and not having the option to eat something else. Be prepared and pack snacks with you but also be aware that you can't bring everything on the plane. Some good options could be: fresh fruit (apples, bananas, etc), nuts, bars, pretzels and popcorn.
Tip # 2: Order a special meal if you want to be served first
This is something that not everyone knows but it’s actually very true. Most of airlines have special meals for people that don’t like the standard meal. Usually, you can request your special meal through the airline’s website up to 24 hours before the departure and the flight attendants will serve it to you before all the other regular meals. So next time you know you’ll be at the very back of the plane, remember to order your special meal.
Tip #3: Stay hydrated
Even though you can’t bring any liquids with you on the plane, you can still bring an empty water bottle. You have to stay hydrated before and during the flight to protect yourself from getting sick. So fill your water bottle up as soon as you get through the security part and drink water even when you’re not thirsty. When you get on the plane, ask your flight attendant to fill it up again. Staying hydrated is the number one key to staying healthy.
Tip #4: Avoid coffee
I know a lot of us love coffee and I am one of you guys! But think about it. Being awake on a plane for 8, 9 or 12 hours isn’t fun. Drinking coffee is gonna make you stay up during the entire flight and that’s the exact opposite of what you want.
Tip #5: Wear comfortable clothes
Yes, I made that mistake before. Don’t wear jeans or dresses during long flights. You have to be comfortable and you have to not worry about moving around. Wear leggings or sweatpants! You can still be classy without your high heels.
Tip #6: Bring a jacket (and a blanket)
Airplanes and airports are cold and you don’t want to get sick. Always bring a jacket with you, even when it’s 90 degrees outside (40 Celsius) because you will be freezing in the airport. For some extra heat, pack a small blanket in your backpack. You will thank me later!!
Tip #7: Bring a neck pillow
If you want to sleep comfortably these 19 hours, you better bring a neck pillow with you. You can find it at the little stores at the airport and it only costs $10. It’s totally worth it!
Tip #8: Don’t forget your headphones
Think about how much you hate listening to other people’s music or videos. That’s how much they hate listening to yours. Bringing your own headphones won’t only help the other passengers, but it will help you as well, eliminate the noises from the plane.
Tip #9: Bring your own entertainment
Long flight are LONG and you can’t sleep the entire time. Bring something that you like and you have fun doing. Some good ideas are books (that’s the only time that I actually get to read books outside of school), games (sudoku is a good one), and movies (most airlines have really old ones).
Tip #10: Book your tickets early
As soon as you know the dates of your trip, you need to book your flight. Booking a flight early allows you to save a lot of money and pick your seat. You don’t want to spend your vacation money only on the flight.
Tip #11: Window Seat is a Must
WINDOW SEAT IS A MUST! You don’t want to wake up every time someone decides to get up, or every time the flight attendant comes with food/beverages and hits your legs. You can sit next to the window and enjoy your flight not having to worry about anything but yourself. If you are very tall, talk to the flight attendants and they will switch your seat to an exit row, with more leg room.
Tip #12: Don’t overdo your carry-ons
Changing planes and airports can be very annoying and you don’t want to carry heavy stuff. Here is a list of things you need and if you have them you don’t have to worry about anything else: wallet, travel information, passport and visa, iPhone and charger, computer and charger, camera, headphones, snacks, head pillow, travel deodorant and travel perfume, small mirror, tissues, hair elastic, travel hand sanitizer, travel makeup, travel toothbrush and toothpaste, gums.
Tip #13: Charge your devices
You’ll use your phone and your computer a lot during a flight and you don’t want it to die on you. Charge it before you leave your house but also charge it at the airport. If you are lucky enough you will find some plugs on the plane as well. Take advantage of that and have it plugged in the entire time.
Tip #14: Get productive
Airplanes are the best place to do homework. You are sitting down for so many hours without having anything to do. So be productive! Be smart and finish everything you have to do on the plane so you can enjoy your free time when you land.
Tip #15: Search for wifi
We all love internet and we all love internet when we don’t have anything else to do. Usually you have to pay for it and the speed isn’t great, but it keeps you busy for a little bit and it keeps you connected with the world under you. If you have the option definitely get it!
xoxo Olga
