We’ve all been there, the dread setting in at the anticipated aches and pains of being squeezed into an economy seat for more than 6 hours. No matter how exciting take off and landing might be, no matter the adrenaline rush you might get at the thought of being in the sky, nothing can prepare you for the never-ending vortex of the long haul flight. Thankfully we’ve pulled in the experts to help you survive the ordeal. Not only can you get great savings on cheap airport car parking from Parking at Airports. They’ve also got the knowledge you need for getting efficiently through the airport and your flight.

Pack Essentials in a Separate Pouch

When it comes to the cramped confines of a plane chair, you want to make the most of the space you’ve got. But we also understand the importance of wanting to keep all essential and valuable items close to you to ensure their safety and easy access. No one enjoys you getting up numerous times and messing around in the overhead bin, least of all you. Worst still, your legroom is invaluable on a long haul flight.

By all means utilise the cabin bag allowance you’ve been given. But why not consider keeping those items you’ll need to-hand in a separate pouch? You can then remove the pouch from your bag, the latter of which you can deposit in the cabin. The bag of essentials can then be stored in the pouch on the seat in front, or even hung if you bring a clip for attaching.

Essentials to consider:

• • Headphones
  • Any medicines or toiletries
  • Tablet
  • Book
  • Phone & charger

In-Flight Pampering

Few people step off a long flight feeling fine, fresh, fierce. In fact, does anyone? Because we’d like to know their secrets if so. Considering the amount of time you’re going to be up in the air, you’ve got time to fill, so why not use this as your excuse to really sit back, relax and pamper yourself. We’re talking face masks, pore strips and ensuring you’re feeling as human as possible.

Why not bring…

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• A moisturising face mask
• Hand cream

Try and avoid bringing anything that is offensive in scent. You may have time to perfect the flawless French manicure, but not everyone on the flight is going to appreciate your nail vanish fumes. In less you offer to do theirs too, at least.

Why to Keep Active on Long Haul Flights

We’ve all heard it before, but it’s important not to remain stationary the entire time you’re on your flight. Short of developing Deep Vein Thrombosis, this is how all those aches and pains begin and remain for the entirety of your flight. Get up and move around as much as you can, especially if you’re confined to the window or centre seat.

Walk around, make use of the toilets and freshen up. Doing a bit of stretching wouldn’t go amiss, even if it’s simply rotating your ankles. It’s good to do what you can to keep the blood pumping throughout your body.

Draw out your time standing and don’t simply do your business and return to your seat. Whilst the person on the aisle seat may be waiting for your return before sitting back down, you need to prioritise yourself and ensure you’re spending a good amount of your long haul flight on your feet.

Check Out the In-Flight Entertainment

What better way to kill a few hours than to watch a film or two, or three! All long haul flights are equipped with your own personal screen, usually with films yet to have had their home release. Avoid the map screen that tracks your flight, a film or binging a whole TV series is bound to make time go a lot faster. And don’t just watch those films that instantly stand out to you either. Limited by what you can do, it’s a good idea to trial some films or shows you wouldn’t otherwise jump to watch.

Our top tip is to give into sleep when your eyes start to droop. How does this relate to in-flight entertainment? Well, if you’ve ever been watching a film, you’re bound to have found yourself nodding off at some point in your life. Rather than resisting and trying to finish what you’re watching, slip on your sleep mask and have a kip. Make the most of your body already feeling tired, rather than feeling obligated to get some shut eye and ultimately not being able to drop off.

Bring Back Up Entertainment

Whilst there is usually a fairly good selection of entertainment options including music, too, we suggest coming prepared. Bring along a tablet with prepared downloads of films and TV shows, including favourites you’ve probably already watched at least a handful of times.

We would also recommend:

• • eBooks giving you choice without being weighed down by more than one book
  • Podcasts
  • Music
  • Games
  • Work

Make Friends

Let’s be real, you’re all trapped on a metal tube until further notice hurtling through the sky. You may as well strike up conversation with the other passengers dying of boredom. Obviously not everyone will be up for a conversation, but you’re likely to find someone you can get to know. Whether you’re on your outbound flight or returning home. Swap travel stories, get to know about their life and establish some common interests.

If nothing else, you might pass 15 minutes whilst determining that you and another individual don’t have a lot to talk about. On the flip side, you might just make a friend for life, or get some great tips for your travelling adventures.

When it comes to long haul flights, you should take it for what it is. It’s essentially an excuse to take time off any outstanding work you might have and disconnect for a few hours. Have the ultimate lazy day, just on a plane going somewhere exciting and ensure you’ve got all those lazy day essentials right there with you.