Hell is being trapped in a plane for several hours, stuck in an uncomfortable seat, next to a guy who snores like an elephant (which only barely manages to drown out the sound of the screaming baby down the aisle). But these tips can help a long flight be comfortable, or at least, bearable.
1. Book as early as you can so you can request for a good seat. If you are tall and need more leg room, get one next to an aisle or at an exit row. If you want to sleep more soundly during the flight, ask for one next to the window so you won’t be disturbed by passing passengers. Avoid getting the back seats, which are too near the bathroom and often do not recline.
2. Pack a sleep kit. This includes a head pillow, an iPod loaded with relaxing music, temple balm that smells like lavender or relaxing mint.
3. Bring light entertainment. While most planes provide inflight moves, you may want an alternative if you don’t like anything they’re showing. Download games into your iPad, bring a funny fiction book, load movies into your laptop, buy a magazine at the airport bookstore.
4. Pack a ‘freshen up’ kit. Toothpaste, toothbrush and a refreshing facial wash can help you feel and look better (or at least somewhat human) by the end of the flight. Just don’t be stupid enough to try to shave during the flight. One word: turbulence.
5. Walk around. This helps your circulation and stretch cramped muscles. Try rotating your ankles or going to the back of the cabin to stretch your arms.
6. Wear comfortable shoes. Choose those that are soft and roomy enough that you can wriggle your toes and flex your soles. If you’re going to wear open toed sandals pack socks—planes can get cold!
7. Bring eye drops and saline nose drops if you’re particularly sensitive to dry air. Lip gloss or lip balm can also help prevent your lips from becoming chapped.
Photo from traveltips.usatoday.com
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