7 Ways to Make Long Flights More Bearable
Long flights can feel like an endurance test, but with the right tricks, they don’t have to be miserable.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 3 min read
Spending hours trapped in a metal tube with limited legroom isn’t exactly fun, but you can make it a lot more comfortable. From picking the right seat to keeping yourself entertained, a little planning goes a long way. Here are seven ways to survive and maybe even enjoy your next long-haul flight.
1. Choose Your Seat Wisely
Sergey Zhumaev on Pexels
Not all seats are created equal, so don’t leave it to chance. If you want extra legroom, go for an exit row; if you want to sleep, avoid seats near the bathrooms. Window seats give you something to lean on, while aisle seats let you stretch more. Whatever you do, don’t get stuck in the dreaded middle seat—unless you enjoy armrest battles.
2. Dress for Comfort, Not Fashion
Asya Cusima on Pexels
This is not the time for tight jeans or fancy outfits. Wear loose, breathable clothing, and layer up in case the plane’s temperature fluctuates between “tropical paradise” and “Antarctic expedition.” Compression socks can help prevent swollen ankles, and slip-on shoes make airport security a breeze. Basically, think “cozy airport gremlin” rather than “runway model.”
3. Bring Your Own Entertainment
Berkalp Turper on Pexels
In-flight movies are great—until you realize you’ve either seen them all or they’re all terrible. Load up your phone, tablet, or e-reader with movies, podcasts, books, or games before you fly. Noise-canceling headphones are a lifesaver, drowning out crying babies and chatty seat neighbors. If all else fails, people-watching can be surprisingly entertaining.
4. Pack Snacks Like a Pro
Kaboompics.com on Wikimedia Commons
Airplane food is a gamble, and hunger makes time crawl. Bring a mix of healthy snacks and guilty pleasures—nuts, granola bars, or a sneaky chocolate stash. Avoid anything too smelly unless you want to be that passenger. Also, hydration is key, but don’t overdo it unless you love frequent bathroom trips.
5. Master the Art of Sleeping in Awkward Positions
cottonbro studio on Pexels
Sleeping on a plane is an advanced skill, but a good neck pillow, eye mask, and blanket can help. Recline your seat (politely), lean against the window, or create a makeshift headrest with your hoodie. Avoid caffeine and heavy meals before trying to sleep. If all else fails, pretend you’re comfortable and hope for the best.
6. Get Up and Move Around
Pew Nguyen on Pexels
Sitting still for ten hours straight is a fast track to stiff joints and crankiness. Stretch your legs, walk up and down the aisle when possible, and do some subtle seat exercises. Even simple ankle rolls and shoulder stretches can make a difference. Just don’t be that person blocking the aisle while doing full-body yoga.
7. Mentally Prepare for the Journey
Alex P on Pexels
Accept that long flights are just part of the adventure. Go in with the mindset that it’s time to relax, watch guilt-free TV, or catch up on that book you’ve been ignoring. If you expect it to be terrible, it probably will be—but if you treat it like forced downtime, it might just be bearable. Hey, at least you’re not the pilot.