Flying, especially on long-haul journeys, can be an exhausting experience. The cramped seats, dry cabin air, and irregular sleep schedules can leave you feeling anything but refreshed when you land. The discomforts of air travel can make even the most exciting destination feel daunting upon arrival. However, with a few savvy tips and tricks, you can hack your inflight experience to step off the plane feeling rejuvenated and ready to explore.
Choose the Right Seat
The first step in hacking your inflight experience starts even before you board the plane: choose the right seat. Selecting the right seat can have a massive impact on your comfort. If you plan on sleeping for the majority of the flight, a window seat is ideal, as you can lean against the wall and won’t be disturbed by other passengers needing to get up. If you prefer freedom to move around, an aisle seat might be more suitable. To identify the best seats on your specific flight, use tools like SeatGuru, which provide details on legroom, seat width, and potential disturbances.
Pack Smart and Light
Packing smart is key to making your inflight experience as comfortable as possible. Bring a small carry-on bag with all your inflight essentials: a neck pillow, noise-canceling headphones, an eye mask, and a blanket or large scarf. These items can help you get some quality rest by blocking out distractions and keeping you cozy in unpredictable cabin temperatures. Don’t forget a good moisturizer and lip balm—the air inside planes is notoriously dry, and a bit of hydration can make all the difference.
Dress for Comfort
You’ll be spending hours in the same clothes, so dress for comfort. Opt for loose, breathable fabrics that allow your body to move freely. Layering is crucial since cabin temperatures can vary greatly throughout the flight. A soft jacket or hoodie can serve as both warmth and extra comfort if you decide to take a nap. Avoid anything too tight or restrictive, as you’ll want to be able to relax and adjust comfortably.
Stay Hydrated
Airplane cabins are incredibly dehydrating due to low humidity levels, and dehydration is a major reason why passengers feel tired and groggy after a flight. Start hydrating before you even board the plane by drinking plenty of water. Once you’re onboard, aim to drink at least 8 ounces of water for every hour in the air. Bring an empty reusable water bottle with you and fill it up after passing through security. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you further, and instead opt for herbal teas or simply stick with water.
Eat Light and Avoid Sugary Snacks
While it can be tempting to snack your way through the flight, be mindful of what you eat. Heavy, greasy foods can leave you feeling sluggish and uncomfortable, while sugary snacks can cause energy spikes and crashes. Instead, pack some healthy, light snacks like fresh fruit, nuts, or protein bars to keep your energy stable. Eating light, nutritious food will help you feel better when you land.
Move and Stretch
Sitting in one place for hours can lead to stiffness and discomfort. Make it a point to get up and move around the cabin every couple of hours. You can also do some simple in-seat exercises, such as ankle rolls, knee lifts, and shoulder shrugs. Keeping your blood flowing will help prevent aches and pains, as well as reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can be a serious risk on long-haul flights.
Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment
If you’re hoping to sleep during your flight, creating a sleep-friendly environment is essential. Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs can block out cabin noise, while an eye mask will help you shut out light. A neck pillow can keep you comfortable and prevent a sore neck. Try listening to calming music, white noise, or a guided meditation to help you relax and drift off.
Freshen Up Before Landing
Before landing, take some time to freshen up. Pack some face wipes, a toothbrush, and travel-sized toiletries in your carry-on so you can clean up before disembarking. A quick wash of your face, a dab of moisturizer, and brushing your teeth can make you feel instantly more awake and ready to tackle the day.
Adjust to the Destination Time Zone
One of the best ways to beat jet lag and arrive feeling refreshed is to adjust your internal clock to your destination’s time zone as soon as possible. If you’re flying overnight, try to sleep at a time that matches nighttime at your destination. Set your watch to the local time as soon as you board, and start mentally preparing yourself for the new schedule.
Land Refreshed
With a bit of preparation and a few strategic hacks, you can transform a potentially draining flight into a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. The key to arriving refreshed is a combination of comfort, hydration, light eating, and adapting to your new time zone. Next time you’re preparing for a long flight, try these tips, and you’ll notice a huge difference in how you feel upon arrival.