Some flyers prefer window seats. The benefit of a window seat is that you can use the side of the plane as a cozy nook in which you can sleep. The major drawback to window seats is the difficulty you’ll face potentially crossing over two other people when going for a walk or trying to use the bathroom. [1] X Research source
You might want to download some relaxing white noise tracks onto your media player to drown out other passengers or loud children. [3] X Research source Many long flight travelers recommend wearing compression socks, especially when flying economy. They can help prevent swelling in your feet and ankles.
Raise your toes while sitting. Slowly raise your toes as high as you can. Do this 7 - 10 times with controlled, deliberate motion. Raise and twist your legs. Raise your legs as much as you can and rotate your toes in a clockwise motion. Do this 6 times, then repeat going counterclockwise. Bring your knees to your chest. Bring one knee as close to your chest as you can with both hands. Hold for 15-20 seconds, then repeat with your other leg. Do this 3 times. [4] X Research source
Raise your toes while sitting. Slowly raise your toes as high as you can. Do this 7 - 10 times with controlled, deliberate motion. Raise and twist your legs. Raise your legs as much as you can and rotate your toes in a clockwise motion. Do this 6 times, then repeat going counterclockwise. Bring your knees to your chest. Bring one knee as close to your chest as you can with both hands. Hold for 15-20 seconds, then repeat with your other leg. Do this 3 times. [4] X Research source
Consider taking a nap or getting as much sleep as possible at around the five-hour mark. Natural sleep aids, like chamomile, Valerian root, and melatonin may help. [6] X Research source [7] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source [8] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source By planning a nap toward the middle of your long flight, you break up your activities so you hopefully won’t get bored of in-seat entertainment. Think about a walk down the aisle at the eight-hour mark. This is a good opportunity to visit the restroom and freshen up with your in-flight toiletry bag. Enjoy your planned activities between hours eight and ten of your trip. Try to catch a little more rest at hour ten. You might find yourself ready for another short nap. Finish out the rest of your flight with planned activities. This is also a good chance for you to do your in-flight exercises. [9] X Research source
You might also want to consider meditating before your flight so you’re calm and relaxed. A long flight might also be a good time for you to try out a new activity, especially if you find that you normally don’t have free time to try something new.
To help making friends with those sitting around you, you might bring an extra snack to offer. Even if your seat-mate refuses, most people will appreciate the gesture of good will. You might engage your seat-mates in a game, like chess, or ask for help with a difficult puzzle.
You might also find it easier to fall asleep if you take your shoes off and give your toes some wiggle room. If you’re traveling for business and are wearing a suit jacket or blazer, ask a flight attendant to hang your jacket up so it doesn’t get wrinkled. [12] X Research source
If you don’t have a pillow, a balled-up jacket or scarf can do in a pinch. If you are trapped in a middle seat, attempt various positions to find what’s most comfortable for you. You may find that leaning to the left or right in your reclined seat helps considerably. You might even be able to create a surface to lean against by wadding up extra clothing, like a sweatshirt. Sitting on a pillow, even one of the U-shaped variety, can help relieve pressure on your lower back. [13] X Research source
Depending on the kind of plugs used in your home country, you might also want to bring a power adapter for your electronics. [15] X Research source
Taking a break from an enjoyable activity will also prevent you from getting burned out on it. Even the most enjoyable things, if done for too long, can become tiresome. [16] X Research source
To prevent dehydration, you also might want to avoid diuretics. Diuretics are substances that make you have to urinate more frequently, like coffee and alcohol. [18] X Research source [19] X Research source [20] X Research source
In your bathroom kit, you’ll probably want to at least include a toothbrush, travel sized toothpaste, deodorant, and hand sanitizer. If you wear contacts, bring a case and solution so you can take them out on the plane. The air in the cabin of most flights can be very dry. Some travel-sized lotion and lip balm can soothe your dry skin. Eye drops, too, can be a lifesaver after a nap. [21] X Research source
Before using sleep aids on your flight, do a test run to see how they affect you. [23] X Research source Many long flights offer amenities like pillows and blankets, though they may not be the best quality.
Prioritize snacks that you know from experience are kind to your digestion. An upset stomach on a long flight can ruin any enjoyment you might have had. [24] X Research source Make sure you pack your chargers and potentially a power pack for charging your devices in flight. [25] X Research source It’s a good idea to bring at least one item that can’t malfunction, like a book and/or some paper puzzles (sudoku, crosswords, etc. ).
Scarves take up relatively little space and can be draped over your arms or legs if you get cold. [26] X Research source
