Tips to surviving long haul flying

By: Travel Team | 4 May 2023

Long haul flights, such as Sydney to Rome, can be a daunting experience, particularly for those travelling in economy class. However, with the right preparation and mindset, it’s possible to make the journey as comfortable as possible. In this blog post, we’ll provide a range of tips on how to best manage long haul flights and make the journey as enjoyable as possible.

Tip 1: Choose the right seat

Choosing the right seat can make a huge difference in the comfort of your flight. When booking your flight, choose a seat that has extra legroom, such as an exit row or bulkhead seat. If these seats are not available, choose a seat in the middle section of the plane, as this is the most stable part of the aircraft and will provide a smoother ride. It’s also a good idea to choose a window seat, as it will allow you to control the amount of light coming in and provide a view to distract you during the flight.

Tip 2: Pack the essentials

When travelling on a long haul flight, it’s important to pack the essentials to ensure you stay comfortable throughout the journey. This includes a neck pillow, eye mask, earplugs, and a warm sweater or jacket. These items will help you get some rest and stay warm during the flight.

Tip 3: Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is essential when travelling on a long haul flight. Drink plenty of water before and during the flight, and avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can dehydrate you. It’s also a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle that you can refill during the flight.

Tip 4: Move around

Sitting in the same position for an extended period can be uncomfortable and can also increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). To avoid this, get up and move around the cabin regularly. Walk up and down the aisle or do some stretches in the galley to get your blood flowing.

Tip 5: Entertainment

Long haul flights can be tedious, so it’s important to bring some entertainment with you. Bring a good book, download some movies or TV shows onto your phone or tablet, or bring a crossword puzzle book to keep your mind occupied during the flight.

Tip 6: Sleep

Getting some sleep during the flight can help make the journey feel shorter and make you feel more refreshed when you arrive at your destination. Bring a neck pillow, eye mask, and earplugs to help you sleep, and consider taking a sleep aid, such as melatonin, if you have trouble sleeping on planes.

Tip 7: Time your flights to manage jet lag

Managing jet lag can be a challenge when travelling on long haul flights. The best way to manage jet lag is to time your flights to minimize its effects. When travelling from Sydney to Rome, it’s best to fly in the evening and arrive in Rome in the morning. This will help you adjust to the local time more quickly and minimize the effects of jet lag. When flying back to Sydney, it’s best to fly during the day and arrive in the evening. This will help you adjust to the local time more quickly and get a good night’s sleep.

Tip 8: Prepare for customs and immigration

Travelling to a new country means going through customs and immigration, which can be a lengthy process. To make this process as smooth as possible, make sure you have all the necessary documents, such as your passport and visa, and have them easily accessible. Also, be prepared to answer questions about your trip and have your itinerary handy.

In conclusion, travelling on a long haul flight can be a challenging experience, particularly in economy class. However, by following these tips, you can make the journey as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Remember to choose the right seat, pack