So, you’ve just booked a long-haul flight, and you’re now wondering how you will get through it.
You’re excited about your flight, but you almost can’t wait for the getting there part to be over so you can get off that plane, breathe in the fresh air and move around, right?
Well, it doesn’t have to be that bad, and thankfully there are things you can do to help make the flight enjoyable and something to look forward to.
So, let’s get into it!
Research: There is much to learn (hello, YouTube), and so many people have great ideas from their journeys that you can apply to yours. Watch some travel vlogs, read articles, ask friends and family about their travels or talk to your colleagues.
Perspective: Rather than seeing the flight as “11 hours!” or however long it is, why not choose to see it as “only 11 hours!”. Perspective is amazing. Imagine that feeling on your last day in a country you’re visiting—you wake up that morning and head out for breakfast, but you’re most likely aware that in 11 hours, you’ve got to get to the airport. The day goes fast, and you almost want it to be longer. Apply that same perspective—in only 11 hours, you’ll be at your next destination!
Bring home with you: There’s nothing like making a flight that bit comfier. If you love skincare and the refreshing feeling of a freshly washed and moisturised face, pack some cleansing lotion and moisturiser on the plane (security size-approved, of course!). Apply as needed to bring a bit of your home routine with you.
Prepare your comfort: Invest in a memory foam neck pillow to help you get some sleep; an eye mask to make it feel like night no matter what time you’re flying; some noise-cancelling headphones to distract you from plane noise, or consider getting a mouldable phone or iPad holder to prop it up at just the right position so you aren’t straining your neck.
Stay warm: Planes are notorious for being cold, so pack a jumper and some bed socks! This will help you feel cosy and likely increase your chances of sleeping if you feel warm and snuggly!
Set realistic expectations: We often think that with that many hours to use up, we’ll get some work done, write that book, finish that other book, or get on top of paperwork. Setting productive goals might work for some, but for others, it can often feel us feeling pressure to use every second of the flight to get something done! Enjoy your journey, eat food, get some sleep, have a few laughs from watching a funny show and don’t forget to look out the window from time to time and take in the wonder of the amazing views.
Happy flying!
The Editing Eagle 