How to Survive a Long Flight

Your seat choice can greatly affect your comfort level during a long flight. For more legroom, you can book an exit row seat or a bulkhead seat. These seats have more space in front of them, but they may also have some drawbacks, such as limited reclining or storage.

To avoid disturbance, you can steer clear of seats near the lavatories or the galley. These seats tend to be noisy and crowded, as people often queue up for the bathroom or the snacks.

If you want to sleep better, choose a window seat so you can lean against the wall and have more control over the window shade. This way, you can block out the light and the noise from the aisle.

Bring a carry-on bag with everything you need to make your flight more comfortable, such as a neck pillow, earplugs, eye mask, headphones, snacks, water bottles, books, magazines, and games. You can also pack some toiletries, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, facial wipes, moisturizer, lip balm, etc., to freshen up during or after the flight.

Wear loose-fitting and breathable clothes that can keep you warm or cool, depending on the cabin temperature. You can also layer your clothes so you can adjust to different climates. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes that are easy to slip on and off and socks that can prevent swelling in your feet.

Drink plenty of water before and during the flight to avoid dehydration, which can cause headaches, fatigue, and dry skin. You can also bring your own water bottle and fill it up at the airport or ask the flight attendants for refills.

Avoid drinking alcohol, caffeine, or sugary drinks, as they can dehydrate you and disrupt your sleep. Eat light, healthy meals and snacks that can keep you energized and prevent bloating or indigestion. You can also take some vitamins or supplements to boost your immune system and prevent getting sick from the germs in the air.

Sitting for too long can cause stiffness, soreness, cramps, and even blood clots in your legs. To prevent this, you should get up and walk around the cabin every hour or so. You can also do some simple stretches in your seat or in the aisle, such as rolling your shoulders, twisting your torso, bending your knees, and flexing your feet. This can help improve your blood circulation and relax your muscles.

Long flights can be tedious, so you should find ways to keep yourself entertained and distracted. Watch movies or shows on the in-flight entertainment system or on your own device. You can also listen to music, podcasts, and audiobooks, that can help you relax or learn something new. Or you can read books, magazines, that can stimulate your mind or transport you to another world. And don't forget about games, puzzles, and crossword puzzles, that can challenge your brain.

Sleeping on a plane can be difficult due to the noise, light, and discomfort. However, sleeping is essential to avoid jet lag and fatigue. To sleep better on a plane, you should follow these tips:

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