We’re here to provide expert advice on how to prepare, how to occupy your time, and what to bring to make your long flight more enjoyable.

1. Secure Comfortable Seat Tips for Surviving Long Flights

Booking tickets early allows you to secure the best seat. Consider what matters most to you — quick access to the bathroom, a window seat for leaning and sleeping, and ample leg room. Research airlines that offer seat widths of more than 17 inches and book accordingly. If you have airline miles, consider using them to upgrade. If not, it might be worth splurging on Premium Economy or Business Class for more legroom, wider seats, and priority check-in.

2. Set the Right Mindset

Prepare yourself mentally and physically. Check-in early to avoid unnecessary stress at the airport. Arrive early to avoid stressing over long TSA lines or finding your gate. Reduce stress before boarding the plane by having a nice meal, walking around, checking out the airport shops, or treating yourself to a relaxing spa treatment.

3. Anticipate Jetlag Tips for Surviving Long Flights

Adjust your sleeping patterns days in advance and be well-rested before you fly. Book your flight so that it arrives during the day. Make the most of your stopovers. When you get on the plane, adjust your watch to acclimate yourself to the new time zone.

4. Dress Comfortably

Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You don’t have to impress anyone, and you’ll be much happier 10 hours from take-off. Think of layers in case it’s hot or cold during your flight.

5. Pack Smart

Avoid the annoyance of reaching over people to get into the overhead bin. Keep these items in a bag you can keep by your seat: a comfy lightweight blanket, a good travel pillow and eye mask, noise-canceling headphones or earplugs, travel-size moisturizer for hands and lips, tissue, hand sanitizer, pain reliever, gum or mints, basic toiletries, healthy snacks, a water bottle, and your digital devices and chargers.

6. Prioritize Your Health

Compression socks are a must on long flights. Stretch often to avoid DVT (deep-vein thrombosis) by getting up and walking the cabin and stretching in your seat. Hydrate throughout your trip. Brush your teeth and freshen up a time or two while in flight.

7. Relax and Enjoy Tips for Surviving Long Flights

Plan ahead for stuff to do while seated. Load music, podcasts, movies, and/or books on your device in advance so they’re ready to go. Sleep, listen to music, watch a movie, lose yourself in a good book, meditate, catch up on busy work, draw, write… whatever relaxes you and puts you in a good mood.

8. Stay Hydrated and Eat Light

Airplane cabins are notoriously dry environments and can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, as both can exacerbate dehydration. Also, try to eat light meals. Heavy meals can make you feel uncomfortable and sluggish.

9. Bring Entertainment

In addition to digital devices, consider bringing a physical book or magazine, a travel journal, or a portable game. These can be particularly useful during takeoff and landing when electronic devices must be turned off or put in airplane mode.

10. Use Sleep Aids Wisely Tips for Surviving Long Flights

If you plan on using sleep aids, whether prescription or over-the-counter, be sure to test them before your trip. Everyone reacts differently to these medications, and the last thing you want is to have an adverse reaction while in the air.

Long flights can be daunting, but they don’t have to be miserable. With some planning, you can make the most out of your long-haul flight. Your flight is part of your travel journey — plan to enjoy it!