Lowering the Pain of Long Flights

Lowering the Pain of Long Flights
 
Traveling on long flights has developed into a certain kind of art — and into a healthy business — with savvy travelers constantly scoping out new ways to make long flights more conducive to actual rest. Here are a few tips that really seem to have some payoff based on our trips flying overseas.
 


Splurge on a better seat. The first one was a tough one for me to finally agree, but I figured now that I am in my 40’s, I need to step up my travel game! Sure, not everyone can afford a premium seat in first or business class, where you can take advantage of fully- or almost-fully-reclining seats and loads of leg room. But for long-distance flights, it can still be worth it to spend the extra money on an exit-row seat, a bulkhead seat, or a window seat.
 
Now, this comes with some warnings, from my personal experience.  For example, when Brad, my husband, and I paid extra to get bulkhead seats for a flight to Amsterdam, we were not too happy because the guy next to me was about 100 pounds overweight and had a smell that was not pleasing.  He made it even better by taking his shoes off during most of the flight.
 
I will say, when we flew to Rome, that when we paid extra for Premium Economy on American Airlines, it was worth it.  Not only were the seats more comfortable, but the extras they gave you, including a higher-class meal, and a comfort pack, made the trip as pleasant as we could be.  We would do that again.
 
Flying on off-peak days, like a Tuesday evening, will also increase the likelihood that the flight will be less crowded and quieter.
 
Do the best you can with flight times and direct flights. While crossing many time zones always poses its own sleep challenges, do your best to pick a flight time and schedule that will sync up most naturally with your sleeping and waking times. Leaving in the evening will work better than trying to get REM at three in the afternoon.
 
Know your cues. Which side of the bed do you sleep on at home? Book on that side of the plane. Do you usually have a cup of tea before bed? Bring a few packets of your favorite herbal. And grab your own small travel blanket and comfy slippers while you’re at it (the airline pillow or blanket can be used for extra cushioning or lumbar support if you like). Spritz your pillow with a mild lavender essential oil. The more familiar things you can do, the more your brain will recognize the cues that it’s time for rest.
 
Sweet darkness, sweet silence. On most trans-oceanic flights, you’ll see the blue glow of nearly every seatback screen flickering, no matter the time. We know that the type of light emitted by screens is proven to disrupt sleep. For any rest at all — let alone good rest — keep your screen off. Bring an eye mask or cap to block out as much light as possible. Use earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones to create the quietest environment you can.
 
Brad finally convinced me that his noise canceling headphones were the perfect gift for me, and I have to say, it has made a big difference.  I still don’t use the eye-mask, but Brad does. 
 
Bring layers of clothing.  Planes can be a challenge when it comes to finding the right temperature for you.  Some parts of the plane can be colder or warmer than others.  If you don’t bring layers of clothes, like a jacket or sweatshirt of sweater, what could have been an okay flight might turn into a 8-10 hour torture!
 
Buckle up over the blanket. When the plane hits turbulence, flight attendants are required to make sure people are safely buckled in. If they can’t see that your seat belt is fastened, they have to disturb you to check. Make it easy for them and for you — simply click the buckle over the blanket.
 
Rather than paying more for less in the airport, do some quick research before you leave to find the best travel pillow for you. There are dozens to choose from, and they range widely in price, portability, and visual quirkiness.  Check out reviews like this one from Travel & Leisure, where you can learn about the best pillows for your sleep type.

What are your best tips for getting good sleep on an airplane? I’d love to hear them. And if you’re ready to plan your next (well-rested) journey, I’m here to help! You can reach me today by calling me at 407-572-3631, clicking here, or filling out the form..
 
 

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