Long-haul international flights can leave travelers feeling exhausted and uncomfortable, making it tough to enjoy their trip upon arrival.
Spending hours in cramped seats with minimal amenities, limited food, and disrupted sleep makes economy class feel far from luxurious.
With these 10 smart travel hacks, you can transform your in-flight experience, arriving relaxed, refreshed, and ready to explore.
Best Travel Tips For Flying Internationally
1. Pre-Flight Preparations
Exercise & Rest
Preparing your body for a long flight begins the day before. Light exercise, like walking or stretching, helps prevent stiffness and improves circulation, making it easier to stay comfortable in a confined airplane seat.
A good night’s sleep is equally crucial, as well-rested travellers are more likely to avoid jet lag and enjoy greater energy upon arrival.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration starts before you even step on the plane. Drinking plenty of water leading up to your flight helps counteract the dehydrating effects of cabin air, preventing dry skin, headaches, and fatigue.
2. Choose Your Seat Wisely
The right seat can make a big difference on a long flight. A window seat allows for uninterrupted rest and a place to lean when you sleep, which is ideal for travellers who don’t plan to move around often.
An aisle seat, on the other hand, provides easy access to stretch, use the restroom, or grab items without disturbing others.
For those needing extra legroom, opting for seats near the bulkhead or emergency exit rows is worth the additional investment for added comfort.
Also, choose your carry-on luggage carefully. Pick a suitcase, backpack or even a small carry-on tote that can fit into the cabin and allows you to easily access items when you need them, without sacrificing crucial leg space.
3. Dress Comfortably
Choosing the right outfit for a long flight can make a world of difference. Opt for soft, breathable layers—such as cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics—that adapt well to the changing temperatures in-flight and at your destination.
Layering also lets you adjust for cooler cabin air without overheating. Comfortable shoes with a bit of stretch or slip-on styles are ideal, as they prevent constriction and allow feet to swell naturally.
Compression socks can be a smart addition to improve circulation, reducing the risk of swelling and discomfort.
4. Create a DIY Luxury Amenities Kit
Bring the comforts of first class to your economy seat by assembling a personal amenities kit. Essentials include a supportive travel neck pillow and compact blanket for cosy rest, an eye mask to block out cabin light, and noise-canceling headphones to enjoy entertainment in peace.
A mini toiletry pack with facial wipes, moisturiser, lip balm, toothpaste, and a toothbrush can freshen you up mid-flight, keeping your skin hydrated and your mood lifted.
5. Pack Your Own Snacks
Bringing your own snacks ensures you’ll have tasty, satisfying options on hand, even between meal services. Choose travel-friendly foods like nuts, dried fruit, granola bars, or crackers—these are easy to pack, mess-free, and TSA-approved.
See our guide to TSA liquid rules to ensure you don’t get anything confiscated before the flight.
Avoid foods with strong scents to keep things pleasant for fellow travellers, and consider items that offer a quick energy boost without taking up much space.
6. Bring Quality Entertainment Options
Make your flight enjoyable by downloading movies, music, podcasts, or e-books onto your devices before takeoff. In case of limited battery or Wi-Fi, bring backup options like a Kindle, which stores multiple books without the bulk.
Portable games, like a Nintendo Switch, and analog options, like a deck of cards, are excellent for passing the time and can also be shared with travel companions. See our range of suitcases with laptop compartments for convenient carry-on option.
7. Stay Connected & Powered Up
To stay connected and keep devices running, charge everything fully before boarding. Bring a power bank for backup, ideally 10,000 mAh or higher, to recharge your phone or tablet multiple times.
Since Wi-Fi might be spotty, download maps and essential apps with offline functionality to ensure easy access to directions or travel plans without needing data mid-flight.
8. Prioritise Comfort & Health During the Flight
Long flights can be taxing on your body, so it’s important to focus on health and comfort throughout. Every hour or so, try gentle stretches, like neck rolls and ankle circles, to boost circulation and reduce stiffness.
Bring essentials like hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes to keep your seating area clean and germ-free, creating a more pleasant environment for the journey.
9. Sleep Essentials for In-Flight Rest
Quality rest is key to feeling refreshed upon arrival. Pack sleep essentials like noise-canceling headphones or earplugs to block out cabin noise, a neck pillow for support, and a sleep mask to minimise light. These items help create a quiet, dark environment that makes drifting off much easier.
10. Know the Airline & Plan Accordingly
Before booking, research airlines and flight schedules to select the best option for comfort and convenience. Look into seat dimensions, meal options, and available amenities.
For long-haul flights, consider splurging on extra legroom or a seat near the front for quicker boarding and disembarking. Planning your flight’s timing can also reduce layover stress, especially on overnight trips.
Bonus Tip: Enjoy Your Flight!
With a bit of preparation and a few key travel essentials, even the longest international flights can become more comfortable and enjoyable.
From choosing the right seat and dressing for comfort to packing your own entertainment and a DIY amenities kit, these hacks can transform your economy experience.
By prioritising health, comfort, and planning, you’ll arrive refreshed and ready to make the most of your destination. Safe travels!
