{"id":93883,"date":"2019-05-14T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2019-05-14T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/travelstartblg.wpenginepowered.com\/long-haul-flights\/"},"modified":"2025-11-04T13:55:43","modified_gmt":"2025-11-04T13:55:43","slug":"long-haul-flights","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.travelstart.co.za\/blog\/long-haul-flights\/","title":{"rendered":"The Complete Survival Guide for Long-Haul Flights"},"content":{"rendered":"

When you find yourself in the cosy confines of economy class<\/strong>, en route to a faraway place, your thoughts will most likely be filled with excitement and adventure – until you take off and the realisation of the lengthy journey ahead starts to settle in. But part of the fun of travelling is in the journey itself<\/strong>, and those long-haul flights can be an opportunity to scratch a few to-do\u2019s off your list, learn more about your new destination or binge on the latest entertainment.<\/p>\n

Come prepared for the trip ahead to ensure you are comfortable, occupied and ready to hit the ground running on arrival.<\/p>\n

What is considered a long-haul flight?<\/h2>\n

Flights spanning 6 to 12 hours are considered to be long-haul flights, while anything in excess of that becomes an ultra<\/em> long-haul flight.<\/p>\n

\"Long<\/p>\n

How do you survive a long-haul flight?<\/h2>\n

Although there\u2019s nothing you can do to make the flight go faster<\/em>, there are plenty of things to be done during the flight to make it feel faster<\/em>, and way more enjoyable. Here are a few tips on what you can do:<\/p>\n

1. Pre-book your seat<\/h3>\n

Where you sit will largely determine how your overall experience goes, so set an alarm if you\u2019re likely to forget about your early flight check-in, and pre-book your seat as soon as you get the chance.<\/p>\n

As most airlines start booking from the front of the aircraft, it\u2019s worth reserving a seat near the back of the plane<\/strong> if you want to avoid crying babies (who will be congregated near the middle) or sit near the galley, where you can get up easily and use the extra room to stretch your legs.<\/p>\n

Window seats are great too, as there\u2019s nobody to climb over you mid-nap. You have a built-in corner to rest your weary head on, and you are well away from the drinks cart and other passengers milling about in the aisles.<\/p>\n

\"Window<\/p>\n

2. Comfort is key<\/h3>\n

It goes without saying that dressing comfortably will make the whole experience more comfortable for you. Wear loose fitting or stretchy clothes that will also stand the test of flight time. Whatever you wear boarding the plane will most likely be the outfit you end up leaving the airport in too.<\/p>\n

As feet and ankles notoriously swell up at high altitude, kick off your shoes and replace them with a pair of plush, warm socks to beat the cabin chill. Consider a pair that you can cruise the aisles in, like the ones with non-slip bobbles underneath.<\/p>\n

3. Pack your own entertainment<\/h3>\n

A pair of own noise-cancelling headphones will go a long way to block out the sounds around you and keep you engrossed in your in-flight entertainment. And, rather than burning through an array of the latest blockbusters, why not pre-download a series of podcasts or audiobooks?<\/p>\n

If you would rather read, but a traditional paperback is not your thing, upload some literary relaxation onto your smartphone or Kindle. Long haul flights are also a great opportunity to learn a new language<\/strong> or pick up a few key phrases before you land, so download Duolingo or some tech-savvy travel apps<\/a> before you leave.<\/p>\n

4. Bring your own snacks<\/h3>\n

Airplane food is luck of the draw. Sometimes you\u2019ll be served incredible dishes and sometimes you won\u2019t know the difference between dinner and the cardboard container it\u2019s served in. Also, if you like to graze between meals, it\u2019s always a good idea to keep plenty of healthy snacks on hand.<\/p>\n

\"Aisle<\/p>\n

5. Get moving<\/h3>\n

Deep vein thrombosis is a real thing and a scary thing at that. Aside from giving you something to do, a bathroom break or walk around the plane is essential for stretching your muscles and boosting circulation mid-flight.<\/p>\n

Practice your ballerina-esque perfect pointe to stretch your legs while nobody is watching, or spell out the alphabet with your feet under the seat in front of you, but whatever you do just get moving as much as possible.<\/p>\n

6. Stay hydrated<\/h3>\n

The moisture vampire that is cabin air-conditioning seeks to leave you feeling parched and with desert dry skin. Drink plenty of water, preferably from a bottle that you can get refilled regularly, and pat a little moisturizer onto your skin at intervals.<\/p>\n

7. Access airport lounges on long layovers<\/h3>\n

There\u2019s nothing worse than being cooped up for hours onboard, only to wander aimlessly around your connecting airport with nowhere to go and not much to do. Consider paying to access an airport lounge (if not included with your ticket) and spend a few hours snacking, catching up via free wifi and escaping from the frenetic crowds outside.<\/p>\n

Research connecting airport information beforehand, as some offer spa and fitness facilities, so why not enjoy an energy-boosting workout and a hot shower, or indulge in a soothing spa treatment or swim on your long layover<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"Long<\/p>\n

What can you take in hand luggage on a long-haul flight?<\/h2>\n

First familiarise yourself with what not to take onboard according to the applicable airlines<\/a>, and then spend some time compiling your in-flight essentials. Also to consider – an additional bag under the seat in front of you restricts your leg space to a degree, so try to keep it small and compact.<\/p>\n

Pack smart<\/a> – bring the essential travel items you can\u2019t live without, in case you end up with lost luggage<\/a>. And remember to place together liquids, creams and gels into travel size containers of up to 100 ml in a resealable 1-litre Ziploc bag.<\/p>\n

Things you should take in hand luggage on long-haul flights:<\/h3>\n