How to Fly Long-Haul Comfortably? Master These 25 Tips

▲ Sleeping on a Plane (Photo / Darzhi / Illustration)

By Rita

Don’t even get me started on flights that last over ten hours — sometimes even a five-hour trip from Taipei to Hokkaido can be tough. Sitting for long periods, especially in a middle seat far from the window or aisle, can really test your patience. So how can you fly more comfortably on long-haul journeys?The UK’s Daily Mailhas compiled 25 simple principles that travelers can refer to for their next trip.

1. Book Early: You can choose your preferred seat.
2. Pack Light: The more junk you bring, especially in carry-on luggage, the more you’ll regret it.
3. Think Carefully About Your Seat: Many people think window seats are best, but ending up next to someone who snores the whole way can be torture.
4. Use Airline Miles: You can use your flight miles to upgrade your seat.
5. Upgrade Your Seat: If you don’t have airline miles, consider premium economy — it offers more legroom and larger seats.
6. Stay Hydrated
7. Prepare for Jet Lag: Use apps to adjust your sleep schedule on the plane to ease the effects of jet lag upon arrival.
8. Charge Your Devices: Make sure all your electronics are fully charged, especially those you plan to use for watching movies.
9. Check In Early: Long-haul flights are already exhausting — don’t add to the stress by rushing to check in at the last minute.
10. Get Plenty of Rest? Don’t expect to sleep well on the plane; between announcements and other passengers, it might not be easy to get proper rest.
11. Wear Compression Socks: They help maintain good blood circulation.
12. Take Supplements Wisely: Consult your doctor before your trip.
13. Dress Comfortably: Opt for loose-fitting clothes when possible.
14. Watch Your Belongings
15. Drink More Water
16. Invest in Good Headphones: Earplugs might not block out cabin announcements, but quality headphones can.
17. Download Some Movies
18. Bring a Travel Pillow
19. Stretch Your Legs
20. Tackle Some Work: There’s usually no Wi-Fi on the plane, so it’s a rare chance to focus and get things done.
21. Pack Extra Snacks: Airport food is often expensive and not always tasty — snacks are always useful.
22. Set Your Watch to Destination Time: Mentally and physically prepare for the time zone change.
23. Regulate Your Breathing: Helps you stay calm while keeping your body energized.
24. Be friendly: Be nice to the flight attendants — sometimes you might get small, pleasant surprises.
25. Have a drink: If none of the above works, just have some alcohol and get a little tipsy.