How to Survive a Long-Haul Flight

When you decide to study abroad, it’s very likely there’s a long-haul flight in your near future! Whether you’re a seasoned flier or it’s your first time in the sky, passing the best part of a day or more trapped on a plane has its challenges (but, of course, the best rewards at the end too!).

Here are some of our favorite tips for surviving a long-haul flight to begin or end your study abroad adventure:

CHOOSE YOUR SEATS CAREFULLY. Will you be sleeping during the flight? You might want to be near the window so you can lean against the side and not be interrupted by seatmates who would like to stand up. If you’ll be awake for the flight, an aisle seat gives you the chance to stretch your legs whenever you want. A window seat will like give you a view of your city when landing. An emergency exit row gives you a bit more leg room. Sitting over the wing can minimize turbulence which can help anxious fliers feel more at ease.

PACK A POUCH IN YOUR CARRY-ON. Bring a smaller bag within your carryon. Zip up pouches that can slip into the seat pocket in front of you are great. You can keep the essentials in here, the items you’ll reach for the most frequently, rather than having to dig under your seat for your backpack or open the overhead to bring it down when you need something. You might stash your phone in here, a pair of headphones, sanitizer, some eye drops, a snack, a book or tablet, any meds you need to take on the plane, etc. Pack a pen in case you need to fill in a landing card, and bring a toothbrush and mini toothpaste; you’ll feel better if you take a few minutes to freshen up at the end of a long flight.

PACK SNACKS AND WATER. There’s a good chance you’re going to be hungry on a long-haul flight at a time other than mealtime. Stock up on snacks in your carry-on. You’ll also want to stop after security to fill your water bottle or buy one to take on board so you don’t have to find a flight attendant every time you’re thirsty. Drink often to stay hydrated! Avoid fizzy drinks and alcohol which will dehydrate you more. 

PREPARE YOUR DEVICES. Charge your phone fully before you travel so you have battery when you reach your destination. Some airlines have built-in chargers, but not all. If you’re bringing a laptop, tablet or an e-reader, charge that too and download anything you want to watch, play, listen to or read on the plane in advance. Noise cancellation headphones can be a lifesaver if you have a talkative seatmate or a screaming baby on board.

PLAN YOUR OUTFIT. It can be cold on the plane and depending on where you’re coming from and what time of year, it may be hot on either end. Dress in layers so you can remove or add when necessary. Choose something comfortable. Pack cozy socks and wear shoes that are easy to slip back on for trips to the bathroom.

CLEAN, CLEAN, CLEAN. Pack some sanitizer (paying attention to restrictions on liquid amounts) and sanitizing wipes. Planes are packed with people (and therefore germs) and while most airlines say they clean carefully between flights, it’s not always the case and will give you peace of mind to give your space a good swipe down before you settle in.

SEATBELTS & SLEEP. If you’re on a night flight or decide to take a snooze, make sure your seatbelt is fastened and visible (over a blanket if you’re using one) so the flight attendants don’t have to wake you up to check if the seatbelt sign suddenly turns on.

WALK AROUND. On a long-haul flight, it’s important to get up once in a while to stretch your legs and get your blood flowing. Watch a movie or read a few chapters in your book and then take a stroll to the other end of the cabin and back.

RELAX. Enjoy the flight! Look forward to your study abroad adventures ahead.

PS: We shared our tips for anxious fliers recently, so if that’s you, head back a few posts to read those too.