Let’s face it long-haul flights aren’t exactly a walk in the park. Whether you’re crossing oceans for a beach holiday, heading home after months abroad, or flying halfway across the world for work, being trapped in a metal tube for 8 to 16 hours (or more) can take a serious toll on your body and mood. But with the right strategies, you can upgrade your entire experience, without spending a fortune or relying on first-class perks.

Here’s a curated guide of the best, tried-and-true long-haul flight tips, based on insight from seasoned travelers, flight attendants, and frequent flyers. From inflight comfort and hydration to beating jet lag and staying sane in economy, this is everything you need to make it through long flights like a pro.

1. Pick the Right Seat, It Matters More Than You Think

• Aisle seat for easy movement and bathroom access
• Window seat for better sleep and a headrest
• Exit row or bulkhead for extra legroom (but sometimes limited storage)
• Use tools like SeatGuru to check seat layouts and avoid poor picks like seats near the lavatory
• If the flight isn’t full, rear sections often have empty rows, perfect for stretching out.

2. Dress Like You’re in Transit, Not at a Gala

Comfort makes a major difference during long flights. Choose practical, layered clothing and supportive items:

• Choose slip-on shoes for easy movement through the cabin.
• Wear soft, breathable fabrics
• Dress in loose layers to adjust for cabin temperature
• Bring a hoodie or shawl for extra warmth
• Use compression socks to reduce swelling

3. Hydrate Like You’re Crossing a Desert

Cabin air is notoriously dry.

• Bring a refillable water bottle and ask crew for regular refills
• Avoid excess alcohol and caffeine. It dehydrates and disrupt sleep
• Add electrolyte tablets for bonus hydration without the sugar

4. Pack Smart with Inflight Comfort Essentials

Create your own personalized amenity kit with:

• Neck pillow (inflatable or memory foam)
• Eye mask (preferably contoured or silk for comfort)
• Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones
• Lip balm and facial moisturizer
• Toothbrush, wipes, and face mist for a mid-flight refresh
• Foot hammock or compact footrest to reduce swelling

5. Prep Your Devices and Entertainment in Advance

Don’t rely on the airline’s inflight screen to entertain you for 12 hours.

• Download movies, playlists, podcasts, audiobooks, and games in advance
• Bring a hands-free phone stand or tablet clip
• Fully charge all devices and pack a portable power bank
• Bring Bluetooth adapters if you want to use your wireless headphones with the seatback screen

6. Plan Your Meals and Snacks Wisely

Avoid relying solely on inflight meals, they’re not always satisfying or predictable. Instead:

• Carry instant meals or tea sachets. Ask crew for hot water
• Pack healthy, protein-rich snacks like nuts, protein bars, or dried fruit
• Avoid greasy, salty, or overly sugary foods
• Bring gum or mints to freshen breath and help with ear pressure

7. Move Often, Don’t Risk Circulation Problems

Sitting for long periods can affect blood flow. To reduce the risk of DVT and stay comfortable:

• Make movement part of your routine in-flight
• Walk the aisle every hour or two
• Do ankle rolls and calf raises at your seat
• Wear compression socks to reduce swelling

8. Beat the Noise, Block the Light

• Noise-canceling headphones help drown out engine hum and crying babies
• Use a white noise playlist or sleep meditation app
• Wear a quality sleep mask to shut out ambient light

Together, these small changes make falling asleep and staying asleep a lot easier.

9. Ask the Crew, They Might Have More Than You Think

Flight attendants often carry helpful extras. Don’t be shy about asking for:

• Tips on less crowded lavatories or cabin temperature settings
• Pain relievers or dental kits
• Hot water for tea or meals
• Extra blankets or pillows

10. Avoid Overpacking Your Carry-On

Only keep what you’ll need during the flight within reach.

• A small pouch for essentials
• A tote or backpack that fits under the seat
• Use packing cubes or organizers to keep things tidy

Digging through an overstuffed bag in a tight seat is a fast track to frustration.

11. Practice Inflight Self-Care

Use the downtime to refresh and reset:

• Change into fresh clothes or socks before landing
• Clean your face, brush your teeth, and apply lotion
• Use hydrating sheet masks or balms if you don’t mind the look

A little mid-air grooming goes a long way in arriving feeling human.

12. Use Layovers to Recharge (Literally and Mentally)

If you have a stopover:

• Walk, stretch, and move around to reset circulation
• Top off your devices at charging stations
• Freshen up in airport lounges or restrooms
• Refill your water bottle and pick up snacks for the next leg

Making the Most of Your Long-Haul Flight Experience

No matter how many times you fly, long-haul journeys rarely go exactly as planned. Unexpected delays, cabin temperature changes, or limited amenities can throw off even the best-laid plans. Still, having the right essentials and a flexible mindset can transform the experience. Simple extras like a cozy travel blanket, noise-canceling headphones, or pre-downloaded entertainment help you reclaim comfort and control amid the challenges of extended flying.

Beyond gear, how you approach the flight mentally makes a big difference. Embracing movement breaks, adjusting your body clock early, and focusing on small routines can ease stress and fatigue. These strategies blend together to create a travel rhythm that keeps you refreshed and ready. Whether you’re heading to tropical islands, global business trips, or home after a long adventure. Thoughtful preparation and mindfulness help turn hours spent in the air into a smoother, more manageable part of your journey.

Feature Image via Emirates