The best travel hacks for long flights
Flying long-haul can be exhausting, but with the right strategies, you can make it a smoother, more comfortable experience. As a frequent traveler who takes multiple long flights each year, I’ve learned exactly what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to surviving a 10+ hour flight. Whether you’re flying overnight to Europe, embarking on a long-haul journey to Asia, or taking an ultra-long-haul route like New York to Singapore, these travel hacks will help you arrive feeling refreshed and ready to explore.
Long flights can take a toll on your body, from stiff muscles and dehydration to disrupted sleep patterns and jet lag. However, by planning ahead and making small adjustments to your in-flight routine, you can transform your travel experience. The key to a successful long-haul journey is a combination of smart seat selection, packing essential items, staying hydrated, and adjusting your sleep and meal schedule to match your destination’s time zone.
Another factor to consider is comfort—wearing the right clothing, bringing noise-canceling headphones, and using sleep aids can make all the difference. Additionally, entertainment options are essential to pass the time. From downloading your favorite movies and podcasts to utilizing in-flight WiFi, keeping yourself occupied is crucial for making a long-haul flight feel less tedious.
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Planning Ahead: The Key to a Better Long Flight
A comfortable long-haul flight starts long before you board the plane. Proper preparation can make all the difference in how you feel during and after your journey. Booking the right flight, selecting the best seat, and packing strategically are essential steps that can make or break your experience.
One of the first things to consider is timing—if you can, opt for overnight flights to help your body adjust to a new time zone. Additionally, some airlines offer better economy-class experiences than others, so researching carriers and aircraft can pay off in extra comfort.
Aside from flight logistics, organizing everything you need beforehand, from travel documents to in-flight entertainment, can reduce stress and ensure you’re fully prepared. Ensuring you’re well-rested before departure, eating a light meal before boarding, and wearing comfortable clothing can also contribute to a smoother experience.
Book Your Flight Strategically
Not all flights are created equal when it comes to comfort. If you have flexibility, consider booking flights on airlines known for better economy-class experiences, such as Singapore Airlines, Japan Airlines, or Qatar Airways.
These carriers offer more legroom, higher-quality food, and better service compared to budget airlines. If using points and miles, this is a great opportunity to look for business class redemptions.
Choose the Right Seat
Seat selection on a long-haul flight is one of the most important decisions you can make. If possible, avoid the middle seat at all costs. The aisle seat is ideal for easy bathroom access, while the window seat gives you a place to lean against for sleep. Sites like SeatGuru can help you pick the best option on your specific aircraft.
Pro tip: If you’re traveling as a pair, book the aisle and window seat in a row of three. If the flight isn’t full, you may get the middle seat to yourself. If someone does book it, they’ll likely be happy to swap for a window or aisle.
Packing Essentials for Long Flights
Packing smart can make all the difference in your in-flight experience. Long flights require a balance of comfort, entertainment, and practicality, so bringing the right items will help you feel more at ease. Since you’ll be sitting in one place for an extended period, packing essentials that enhance relaxation and reduce discomfort is key.
Consider packing a small carry-on bag with everything you might need in-flight, including toiletries, extra layers, and entertainment options. It’s also helpful to have a backup plan for entertainment in case the in-flight system isn’t working. A well-packed carry-on ensures that you have everything you need within reach, making your flight as smooth as possible.
Here are the must-have items that will help you stay comfortable and entertained.
Use Noise-Canceling Headphones
A crying baby, loud neighbors, and the constant hum of the engines can make sleeping or even relaxing difficult. Investing in quality noise-canceling headphones like the Bose QuietComfort 45 can significantly improve your flight experience by blocking out unwanted noise.
Bring a Travel Blanket (But Skip the Pillow)
Airplane cabins are notoriously cold, and while airlines provide blankets, they aren’t always the warmest. Packing your own compact travel blanket ensures you stay comfortable. As for pillows, skip the bulky travel pillow and instead use the one provided by the airline, paired with a hoodie for extra support.
If you really want a travel pillow I like the Trtl, which packs small and actually supports your neck.
Pack an Eye Mask and Earplugs
Not all eye masks are created equal. Choose one that completely blocks out light to help you sleep even when your neighbor keeps their reading light on. A good pair of earplugs can also help block out unwanted noise if you don’t want to wear headphones the entire flight.
Hydration is Key
The dry air in airplane cabins can dehydrate you quickly. Bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up before boarding. Flight attendants don’t always come around with drinks as often as you’d like, so having your own water ensures you stay hydrated throughout the flight.
How to Sleep on a Long Flight
Sleeping on an airplane can be challenging, but a few simple tricks can make it easier to rest. Between limited legroom, engine noise, and bright cabin lights, getting quality sleep mid-flight requires preparation and the right mindset. Whether you’re traveling overnight or just need a power nap, setting yourself up for success will help you arrive at your destination feeling more refreshed.
A key factor is adjusting your body clock before your flight. If you’re flying to a different time zone, try gradually shifting your sleep schedule in the days leading up to departure. Additionally, creating a comfortable sleep environment on the plane—by bringing an eye mask, earplugs, and layering your clothing—can make a big difference.
Choosing the right seat also plays a role; window seats allow you to lean against the cabin wall and avoid being disturbed by other passengers moving around. With a few strategic adjustments, you can make long-haul sleep much more manageable.
Follow the Plane’s Schedule
Even if you don’t feel like eating when the airline serves a meal or sleeping when they dim the cabin lights, try to follow the plane’s schedule. This helps your body adjust to the new time zone more quickly and minimizes jet lag.
Use Natural Sleep Aids
Melatonin or Olly natural sleep supplements can be helpful for falling asleep on long flights. Avoid heavy medications unless you know how they affect you in advance.
Avoid Screens Before Sleeping
The blue light from screens can make it harder to fall asleep. Instead of watching a movie right before sleeping, listen to a podcast or audiobook to help you wind down.
What to Eat (and What to Avoid) on Long Flights
Food plays a big role in how you feel during and after your flight. The wrong choices can leave you feeling bloated, sluggish, or dehydrated, while the right ones can keep you energized and help you adjust to a new time zone more easily. Airplane food isn’t always the most appealing, but there are ways to make it work in your favor.
Try to eat a well-balanced meal before you board to avoid relying solely on in-flight meals. Foods high in protein and fiber can help keep you full longer and prevent energy crashes mid-flight. If you have dietary restrictions or are a picky eater, bringing your own snacks ensures you always have something you enjoy. Staying mindful of hydration and avoiding heavy, greasy meals can also help prevent post-flight sluggishness.
Order a Special Meal
Most airlines offer special meal options, such as vegetarian, low-sodium, or gluten-free. These meals are typically served before the regular meals, and many travelers find them fresher and better tasting.
Skip Carbonated and Alcoholic Drinks
Carbonated beverages can cause bloating at high altitudes, while alcohol dehydrates you. Stick to water, herbal tea, or electrolyte drinks instead.
Bring Your Own Snacks
If you don’t want to rely on airplane food, pack your own protein bars, fruit, or sandwiches to have healthy options available.
Entertainment and Productivity on Long Flights
Long flights can feel endless, so having a solid entertainment plan is key. Download your favorite movies, TV shows, or podcasts ahead of time since in-flight Wi-Fi can be unreliable or expensive. E-books and audiobooks are great for passing the time, especially if you prefer reading over screen time.
Noise-canceling headphones make a huge difference in blocking out engine noise and chatty passengers. If you want to be productive, use the time to clear out emails, journal, or brainstorm trip plans. Travel-friendly puzzles, language learning apps, or even meditative breathing exercises can also help keep your mind engaged.
Download Your Favorite shows, Movies, and Books
Even though most airlines offer in-flight entertainment, it’s always a good idea to have your own shows, movies, or audiobooks downloaded in case the options aren’t great or the system isn’t working.
I like to bring my Kindle Paperwhite with downloaded books as well. It’s the perfect way to read on the go without the burden of heavy books to bring with you.
Invest in a Bluetooth Transmitter
If you prefer watching the seat-back screen but don’t want to deal with wired headphones, an AirFly Bluetooth transmitter lets you connect your AirPods or wireless headphones directly to the airplane’s entertainment system.
Make Use of In-Flight WiFi (If It’s Worth It)
Some airlines offer free messaging, while others charge for full internet access. If you plan to work during the flight, check the WiFi options before boarding to see if it’s worth the investment.
Final Thoughts: Surviving Long-Haul Travel
Even with the best preparation, long flights can still be tiring. However, by following these tips—choosing the right seat, packing smart, staying hydrated, and maintaining a comfortable routine—you can make the journey much more enjoyable. While jet lag is often unavoidable, these strategies will help you arrive feeling more refreshed and ready for adventure.
