Visiting countries on the other side of the world is an exciting experience, but unless you are lucky enough to be flying business or first class getting there is not usually a great deal of fun. It is important therefore to take every opportunity to make your long haul flight a little bit more comfortable. Once you have planned your trip, booked your ticket and bought your travel insurance, you should think about the journey itself. Following our tips will help you arrive at your destination in good shape to start your holiday.
The right seat
Not all seats in each cabin are quite the same. Some people prefer to sit on the aisle, so that they can stretch their legs and get up and down without restriction. Others prefer the window seat, where they can look at the view on take of and landing, and know that they will not be disturbed. Other things to consider are proximity to the galleys and toilets. Where possible, make your choice at the time of booking. Otherwise, check in as early as possible, preferably online the day before departure, and select your seat then. As more and more people pre-book seats this is becoming increasingly important. Leaving it to chance is likely to result in being stuck in a middle seat between two strangers or your party being unable to sit together.
Layered clothing
Air conditioning in aircraft is a curious thing; you never quite know what you are going to get. Sometimes the temperature can seem uncomfortably high, but more often it is excessively cold. Even if you are flying between two similar climates, it is a good idea to be ready for something different on the plane. Layered clothing will ensure that you can adapt as necessary.
Water
The atmosphere on an aeroplane is very dry and much of the discomfort that flying causes comes from dehydration. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol; you will feel much better for it.
Hand luggage
Opinion differs on the question of hand luggage. Some people prefer travel with not much more than a book and their travel documents, so that they can keep it with them comfortably throughout the journey. Other people like to push the baggage restrictions to the limit and are forever getting up and down during the flight to get something else from the overhead cabins. A good idea is to put your essentials in a small bag that will fit under your seat and then place this inside a larger carry on piece along with items that you are less likely to need on board, such as a change of clothing. Once you have boarded the plane, put the small bag under your seat where it is easily accessible and the larger back in the overhead cabin. That way you get the best of both worlds.
Insurance
Transporting people and their luggage all over the world is a complicated business and with the best will in the world sometimes it goes wrong. It is far better to take out insurance before you travel than spend your flight worrying about what you will do if your luggage never arrives. It doesn’t have to be expensive either. There are plenty of cheap travel insurance deals available if you take the time to look.
Noise cancelling headphones
Aeroplanes are noisy places. It is not just your fellow passengers and the crew that you have to consider, but the aircraft itself. Noise cancelling headphones will help eliminate ambient sounds giving you the best chance of getting some sleep on your flight.
Change of clothes
Many international hub airports have showers that transfer passengers can use, and it is amazing how much better you will feel after taking advantage of these facilities. Even if you are unable to find a shower, just changing into some clean clothes can make you feel better and more ready for the next sector of your journey.
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