How to Enjoy a Long-Haul Flight

Whilst a long-haul holiday is the ideal way to relax, getting there can be a bit stressful if you are not prepared. If your destination is more than 8 hours flight time away then it pays to be prepared for the flight to ensure it goes as smoothly as possible. With a little preparation and a few home comforts though you can have a great time on an aeroplane and see it as the first part of your holiday rather than an annoyance! 

Follow our top 5 tips for a long-haul flight and we’ll sure your next long-haul luxury holiday gets off to a flyer!

Dress for the flight 

Think of an outfit to wear that you will be happy with and comfortable in during the duration of your flight, rather than looking good or stylish. The air-con system can also be very powerful and get chilly quickly, so layered clothing is ideal as you can adjust the temperature as you fly. We also recommend leaving your jewellery out and putting it on your hold luggage as it will only set off the alarm during airport security, useful if you are on luxury USA holidays as the security can be very strict.  

Get good seats

Check-in online earlier than usual to get the best seats available when flying long haul if you can. Plus follow these hacks to increase your chances of getting a good seat.

• More leg room is available at the exit rows.
• Children are usually at the front of the planes on international flights so avoiding this will ensure you are away from a crying baby whilst you are trying to fall asleep. 
• An aisle seat is ideal if you want to move about the plane and or use the loo without disturbing someone next to you. 

Some airlines might ask you to wait 24-48 hours before departure, but the overall advice is to get checked in as soon as possible and select your seats without delay. 

Try and sleep 

The plane will be your chair, bed and dining table throughout the day or night depending on the flight time you choose. We recommend travellers carry a lightweight blanket, a good travel pillow for those neck aches along with a good sleeping mask and ear plugs for a good sleep. Although some flights may provide these, it is always good to check with the airline you are travelling with to be sure. Finally, pack some toiletries such as toothpaste, toothbrush, and face cream to feel fresh when you land. 

Pack snacks

Food is provided during a long-haul flight, however, it may not be what you expect and or the time you receive the food. Depending on the time zones you might receive breakfast at dinner time and noodles or curries first thing in the morning. To stave off any hunger while waiting for the food trolley, pack light snacks such as cereal bars, nuts or dried fruits in your carry-on luggage. 

Move around the plane

It is necessary to stretch your legs on a long-haul flight to avoid DVT (deep vein thrombosis). Walking around the plane will allow you to keep the circulation flowing in your legs. There may not be enough space to walk around apart from going up and down the aisle, so we recommend getting up every 2 hours and doing gentle exercise throughout the flight time. 

Lastly, there is a difference between a good airline and a bad one, we recommend reading reviews online before considering booking with a particular airline. The top 5 traveller’s 2021 choices for the best airline for its high standards of service and comfort in all classes are below, so if you are looking to book a luxury Dubai holiday or a luxury holiday to Thailand you may want to consider one of these airlines. Maldives luxury holidays are also on the agenda with these airlines! 

1. Singapore Airlines
2. Emirates
3. Turkish Airlines
4. Qatar Airways
5. Qantas

Do you have a favourite airport or any tips on how to make a long-haul flight more comfortable? We’d love to hear them if you do.