Traveling is a great experience and most of us love the excitement of visiting a land we have never set foot on before. It is a thrill like few others. However ironically the aircraft journey to the destination (which one could count as part of traveling) is not exciting at all and at times can be downright tedious. Eleven hours or more in a cold space, surrounded by strangers, little entertainment, average food and usually some screaming toddler will leave you irritated at the least. However here are some tips on getting through these lengthy flights better. It should be noted that what works for one person may not work for another and that these are just general tips which help most people. As you travel more and more, you'll find ways to cope with such flights which may suit you better.
The Right Seat:
Your seat goes a long way in determining if you'll have a comfortable journey or not. Some seats are much better than others and be sure to book the right seat beforehand. Some airlines have an online booking option, if it is lacking then arrive at the airport early and ask for the required seat during check in. You'll want the window or the aisle seat, or the ones near the emergency exit as they have more room for your legs. Also be sure to avoid the seats in the middle of the row.
Inflight Rest:
Sleeping during the long flight is important. If you don't catch some rest, you'll feel like a zombie for the next few days. You won't be able to sleep if you're dressed formally, so be sure to wear something comfortable and loose fitting (and warm as it can get pretty chilly). In fact this is one of the foremost rules of a long haul flight: dressing comfortably rather than fashionably. If you want to ensure sleep, try to stay awake the entire day before the flight - your tiredness will make you fall asleep easily. Also be sure to bring an eye mask, earplugs and a small pillow.
Are you not entertained?
Never rely on inflight entertainment (unless you're flying business or first class) as it can be expensive and lacking. Instead invest in your own personal entertainment system and load up your electronic devices with movies and shows. Be sure to buy some quality - preferably noise cancelling - headphones. These are a must have for any long haul flight. Consider getting the inflight Wi-Fi, the cost just might be worth it if it helps pass the time.
Hydration:
The air inside the aircraft cabin can get incredibly dry which will cause you to become dehydrated pretty quickly. Hence be sure to drink lots of water. You should take a bottle of water onboard with you since some budget airlines do not give complimentary water. Stay away from alcohol as it dehydrates your body than anything.
The Right Seat:
Your seat goes a long way in determining if you'll have a comfortable journey or not. Some seats are much better than others and be sure to book the right seat beforehand. Some airlines have an online booking option, if it is lacking then arrive at the airport early and ask for the required seat during check in. You'll want the window or the aisle seat, or the ones near the emergency exit as they have more room for your legs. Also be sure to avoid the seats in the middle of the row.
Inflight Rest:
Sleeping during the long flight is important. If you don't catch some rest, you'll feel like a zombie for the next few days. You won't be able to sleep if you're dressed formally, so be sure to wear something comfortable and loose fitting (and warm as it can get pretty chilly). In fact this is one of the foremost rules of a long haul flight: dressing comfortably rather than fashionably. If you want to ensure sleep, try to stay awake the entire day before the flight - your tiredness will make you fall asleep easily. Also be sure to bring an eye mask, earplugs and a small pillow.
Are you not entertained?
Never rely on inflight entertainment (unless you're flying business or first class) as it can be expensive and lacking. Instead invest in your own personal entertainment system and load up your electronic devices with movies and shows. Be sure to buy some quality - preferably noise cancelling - headphones. These are a must have for any long haul flight. Consider getting the inflight Wi-Fi, the cost just might be worth it if it helps pass the time.
Hydration:
The air inside the aircraft cabin can get incredibly dry which will cause you to become dehydrated pretty quickly. Hence be sure to drink lots of water. You should take a bottle of water onboard with you since some budget airlines do not give complimentary water. Stay away from alcohol as it dehydrates your body than anything.