Long flights can test your patience, body, and mind. Cramped seats, dry air, and endless hours in the air can turn even the most exciting trip into a taxing experience. But with a bit of preparation and the right mindset, you can arrive at your destination feeling rested and ready to explore.
Mental preparation is just as important as physical comfort, especially when you’re confined to a seat for half a day. Taking small steps to plan ahead can make a huge difference in how you feel upon arrival. Here are our tips on how to be comfortable on a long flight.
8 Tips on How To Be Comfortable on a Long Flight
1. Choose The Right Seat in Advance
Choosing the right seat makes a noticeable difference, especially on long-haul flights to destinations like Italy or Spain, where you’ll spend hours in the air. Don’t wait until check-in to choose your seat. Instead, book your spot as early as possible if you want extra legroom, a quiet corner, or easy access to the aisle.
Aisle seats give you freedom to stretch and move, while window seats provide something to lean on and a little privacy. Bulkhead and exit row seats can offer additional legroom, but keep in mind they may come with restrictions like fixed armrests or limited under-seat storage.
Middle seats, especially near restrooms or galleys, should be your last resort. Middle seats are less desirable because they offer limited personal space and no direct access to the aisle or window, which can make long flights feel cramped and uncomfortable.
2. Dress in Layers & Comfortable Clothing
Cabin temperatures are unpredictable. One minute it’s freezing, the next it’s warm and stuffy. You can’t control the thermostat, but you can control your comfort by dressing in layers.
Choose soft, breathable fabrics that won’t irritate your skin over long periods. Opt for slip-on shoes to make security checks less of a hassle and keep your feet happy if they swell during the flight. A light scarf or shawl can double as a blanket or headrest cover, giving you added flexibility in unpredictable cabin environments.
3. Pack In-Flight Essentials
What you bring in your carry-on can make or break your flight experience. Prioritize comfort by packing these essentials and keeping them in easy reach:
- A supportive neck pillow to prevent head-bobbing naps.
- Noise-canceling headphones to block out crying babies or engine hum.
- An eye mask to help you rest even during daytime flights.
- Moisturizer and lip balm to fight off the dry cabin air.
Having a comprehensive travel checklist ensures you don’t forget the little things that make a long flight more bearable. It also keeps you organized and ready for unexpected delays, security checks, or mid-flight discomfort.
4. Stay Hydrated & Snack Smart
Dehydration can easily sneak up on you during a long flight. Bring an empty water bottle that you can fill after going through security and sip throughout the flight.
Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to start drinking. Aim to begin hydrating about an hour before boarding and continue sipping water regularly throughout the flight, about six to eight ounces every hour. Pair your hydration with light snacks to keep your energy steady without overloading your system.
However, as far as food goes, skip the salty snacks and sugary treats offered on board. Instead, pack your own healthy options; think protein bars, dried fruit, or nuts. These will keep your energy stable and stomach satisfied without relying on questionable airline meals.
You should also avoid caffeinated beverages, which can dehydrate you faster than you think. Consider bringing electrolyte tablets or drink mixes to help maintain hydration on longer journeys.
5. Move Around & Stretch Regularly
Sitting for too long can cause stiffness and even increase your risk of blood clots. Every couple of hours, take a short walk down the aisle. If you’re stuck in your seat, flex your ankles, roll your shoulders, and stretch your arms.
Simple movements like pointing and flexing your toes or gently twisting your torso can also help relieve tension. Just be careful not to disturb your fellow passengers.
Consider wearing compression socks to support circulation during long flights. Keeping your circulation flowing makes a big difference, especially if your plans include exploring a destination like Croatia, where active itineraries demand physical energy.
6. Adjust To The Local Time Zone Early
Jet lag can ruin the first few days of your trip if you don’t plan ahead. A couple of days before your flight, start adjusting your internal clock by shifting your bedtime an hour earlier or later, depending on your destination. Use a sleep mask or consider a low-dose melatonin supplement during the flight to help reset your rhythm.
Try to expose yourself to natural light after landing to help your body adapt more quickly. If possible, align your in-flight sleep schedule with the local time at your destination. This is especially helpful for journeys to countries like Greece, where time zones may be several hours off from your own.
7. Stay Entertained Without Overstimulation
In-flight entertainment can be hit or miss. Sometimes the screen doesn’t light up, the provided headphones don’t work, or the content isn’t appealing. Prepare for the worst by charging your electronics before boarding and packing a power bank just in case.
Download movies, podcasts, audiobooks, and playlists in advance so you can enjoy them even if you don’t have internet access. If you’re traveling with kids, load a tablet with age-appropriate shows and games to keep them occupied.
Good noise-canceling headphones and your favorite playlist can turn a chaotic cabin into a peaceful retreat. Bringing a small journal or travel notebook can also help pass the time and reflect on your journey.
8. Be Mindful of Layovers & Transfers
A tight layover might look good on paper, but it can quickly become stressful. Choose flights that give you enough time to navigate airports, especially large international ones.
Research if you’ll need to go through customs at your first point of entry, particularly when entering the Schengen Area. In Europe, if your connection is on the same ticket, you usually won’t need to recheck your bags or go through passport control again, unlike in the US.
Before landing, listen for new gate announcements. Gates sometimes change while you’re in the air, and knowing where you need to go ahead of time can save you from a panicked dash across the terminal.
Long flights don’t have to be miserable. With a bit of thoughtful planning, you can turn hours in the sky into part of your adventure. From booking the right seat to staying hydrated and entertained, every small step adds to a more comfortable journey.
When your flight ends, you’ll be ready to enjoy your vacation, whether strolling cobblestone streets in Spain, savoring pasta in Italy, or sailing along the coast of Croatia.
Born and raised in Athens, Maria’s passionate about travel and storytelling, a combination that makes her ideal for her role as our content manager.