How to Conquer a Long-Haul Flight

Kyra Menzel
Oct 29, 2022
3 min read

I have been on my fair share of long-haul flights. Flying to the US and back is something I do at least twice a year and I’ve lost track of the number of flights we’ve taken for vacation. So I have picked up on some tips and tricks to make life in the sky a bit easier.

PSA: I have never traveled with young children as an adult. That’s a whole different ball game. One day, I’m sure I’ll have some tips to share but for now, this is mainly for an adult traveling with other adults or older kids who can take care of themselves.

Do not overpack

Europe is old! And the roads can be newly paved, centuries-old cobblestones, or under construction. And don’t get me started on stairs in those cliffside sea villages of Italy or Croatia. Pack light! Use packing cubes. And try to only pack a carry-on and a good backpack. I know it’s hard. But if it’s a trip of two weeks or less, it’s possible. Trust me. You do NOT want to be hauling heaps of luggage after an international flight. Plus, you are guaranteed to not lose any luggage!

Noise Canceling Headphones

These are a must for me. Most headphones these days come with some level of noise cancelation. Shoot for something comfy and over the ear. There’s really no explanation needed. Lots can happen on a long flight. These are my personal favorite but use whichever kind you already have!

Compression Socks

Pack them and use them. Yes, this makes me sound like an old person but I tell you it has changed the flight game for me. My legs are not as tired and swollen. Plus it’s great for your circulation. Thank me later.

Hydrate

You should be peeing at least every two hours. TMI but it’s the easiest way to gauge if you’re drinking enough. Bring a water bottle with you and fill it up at the airport. Ask the flight attendants for a refill. Just drink so much water it’s ridiculous. You’ll be grateful. Just don't forget to empty it before security! Everyone's got their favorite water bottle but we love traveling with these.

Chic But Comfortable

Wear something comfy but not pajamas! Please for the love of everything, don’t wear pajamas. A cute sweat set, some flowy pants, or leggings with a sweater will do great. Pair that with chic athletic shoes and you’re good to go. It’s not a fashion show but Europe is definitely not as relaxed as say, America. This is my favorite set to travel in. Feels like pajamas but looks chic! Win-win.

Start adjusting to the new time zone

Make a plan to adjust to the time zone you are flying to. For example, when I fly from Europe to the US, I stay awake the whole flight. I might take a small nap but I get my mind ready for the new time zone. But when I fly from the US to Europe, I pop a big old sleeping pill right before dinner (gotta let it kick it) and try to sleep for the majority of the flight. This will make adjusting just that much easier.

Bonus tip: If you aren’t a fan of the meals that are normally serve on planes, get the lactose-free meal. Hear me out! They are prepared on a smaller scale so they aren’t as mushy. It's usually a curry or yummy pasta with fruit for dessert. I used to walk off the plane so bloated and in pain from the meals but no more. Game changer.

International flights are long and kind of brutal. I have yet to fly in first or business class but I feel like that would be a game changer and would make it hard to go back to the peasant economy class. But for now, I’ve found what works for me to have the best experience possible. I hope some of these tips help you have a great beginning and end to your next international trip!