Passengers on international flights are faced with the dilemma of how to stay comfortable and content for many hours in the air. Issues such as noise, air temperature, and seat location are but a few of the factors that can affect the quality of a long flight. A few simple considerations can make a big difference in the success of your next international flight.
One of the first decisions you make when arranging your trip might be more important than you think: which seat you choose on the plane. You will want to choose wisely, as bad seat can make for a bad flight. Most seats have advantages and disadvantages. Bulkhead seats, for example, are popular option because of the extra legroom. Just note that will you lose valuable under-seat storage, and you will most likely be staring at a barrier. Seats in the rear of the plane are notoriously the least popular due to proximity to lavatory odors and a bouncier ride in the back. However, some travelers might prefer these seats for an easy bathroom trip without dodging other passengers and snack carts.
When packing for your flight, consider bringing a small bag that fits inside your carry-on to hold your most necessary items. That way, you can store it easily under the seat and won’t have to keep getting up to access the overhead bin. It could be as simple as a cosmetics bag that fits a pair of socks, phone chargers, earbuds, and a snack. Always bring a jacket on a flight, even when traveling to tropical destinations. Planes and airports can be chilly, and having the extra pockets never hurts.
Quality sleep on a long flight can be a game changer, and you will want to bring a comfortable neck pillow. Products like the Trtl travel pillow are a great option because they can be wrapped around your neck like a scarf and adjusted to give great support. This pillow is also easy to carry with you, as it is lightweight and not bulky in size. There are a variety of travel pillows on the market, with different sizes, shapes, and materials to fit your individual needs, so do some research and don’t buy the first one you see.
Other factors to consider for sleep quality are noise level and bright light. Noise-cancelling headphones can be lifesavers on long flights. They help to drown out loud engines and provide respite from the chatter of fellow passengers. Sleep masks are another consideration for supporting uninterrupted sleep. They can prevent bright light in your eyes when the person in front of you suddenly decides to open his window.
While airports and planes generally have usb charging ports, a portable charger can be a great asset if you have multiple electronics to charge. Additionally, it can come in handy if your destination requires a travel adapter. Battery packs are sold in a variety of compact sizes, from ones that fit in your pants pockets to bigger ones (with more juice) that fit in a purse or backpack without consuming much space.
When planning for a long flight, it is important to consider your specific needs and comforts. Travelers requiring frequent restroom access might be willing to overlook the displeasures of sitting near a lavatory. Some passengers might sleep better with a little background noise, while others cannot rest without total quiet. Whatever your preferred comforts and conveniences, a little planning ahead can prevent frustrations and maximize your chances of enjoying your next long flight.