Tips for Surviving a Long Haul Flight
In 2008 Singapore Airlines broke the record for the world’s longest commercial flight. The flight from Singapore to Newark, New Jersey, travels 16,700 kilometres in about 18.5 hours.
There are no economy seats on the flight – just premium economy and business class seats. Most travel writers recommend flying business or first class for long-haul flights, but how do you survive if you can’t afford to upgrade?
A common fear for long-haul travellers is blood clots. Many people believe that sitting for a long time may slow blood circulation and increase your chances of getting a blood clot.
For this reason, you should wear loose clothing, drink lots of water, and try to walk around and stretch often.
What else can travellers do to make long flights more comfortable?
Here are seven more tips from travel writers:
- Book your seat early.
- Bring a travel pillow, an eye mask, and earplugs.
- Don’t keep luggage at your feet.
- Wear comfortable socks.
- Bring a laptop, tablet, or phone for entertainment.
- Take a small case with headphones, a charger, your passport and a pen, and always keep it with you.
- Don’t forget extra snacks.
Different travel experts have different opinions, of course. Travel writer Cynthia Drescher says you should bring body lotion, lip balm, wet wipes, and moisturising face masks. And Ben Groundwater says you should drink some champagne to celebrate your trip. However you travel, just be sure to enjoy your destination!