How to survive a long-haul flight

By Lauren Ferrone
Published: Tuesday, May 15, 2018

Living at the bottom of the globe, we Aussies are used to marathon journeys to get us to exotic destinations on the other side of the world, but there are plenty of ways to take the dread out of your next long-haul flight. Words: Ben Groundwater

There are few things in the travel world more daunting than a long-haul flight: the hours spent in a tight space, the unpredictable food, and kids (or adults) kicking the back of your seat as you battle to get some shut-eye.

Australians have long been passionate travellers prepared to go the long haul for their destination of choice – but that doesn’t mean we enjoy the experience. However, there are always opportunities to make long-haul travel more comfortable, more bearable.

There are plenty of hacks for everyday travellers to give themselves a premium experience. Take these steps, and you’ll arrive at your destination fresh and ready to enjoy yourself.

Pack your own accessories

Ever been jealous of the amenities packs that business class passengers are given for long-haul flights? Then make up your own before boarding. Take a good quality eye mask, plus earplugs, a neck pillow, toothpaste and a toothbrush, and also some moisturiser. That way you’ll ensure the most comfort possible, even if you’re riding in the back of the cabin.

Pay for lounge access

Most major airports now have at least one lounge that any passenger can access if they’re prepared to pay a once-off fee. This is an indulgence that could very easily be worth the money on a stopover: you’ll have a comfortable, quiet spot to relax for a few hours, plus be able to enjoy amenities such as showers, a business centre, free Wi-Fi, and buffets with free food and drink. It’s the perfect way to prepare for that next leg of the journey.

Dubai International Airport's business lounge.

Dubai airport looks like a fine dining restaurant.

BYO headphones

The headphones most airlines supply to passengers aren’t of the best quality, and you’ll be surprised at how much more value you can get from the on-board entertainment system with your own set. Buy good quality noise-cancelling headphones, and all of those crying babies and chatty neighbours will fade into the background.

Arrange an upgrade

Obviously, the best way to survive a long-haul flight is to get yourself up the pointy end of the plane, in either premium economy, business or first class. Though most of us can’t afford such a luxury, it’s usually possible to upgrade using frequent flyer points; or, for premium economy at least, keep an eye on sales to pick up some extra leg-room and superior comfort for only a small amount extra.

Plan your stopover

Even if you don’t have lounge access, some of the Asian transport hubs offer excellent – and often free – facilities for passengers to enjoy between flights. If you’re at Singapore’s Changi Airport, don’t miss the rooftop pool, the sunflower and orchid gardens, and the replica hawker centre for a bite to eat. At South Korea’s Seoul Incheon Airport, tour a free cultural museum or hit a few golf balls at the driving range.

Singapore's Changi Airport's garden.

Bring your chargers

If you’re relying on a phone, a tablet or even a laptop for entertainment while you’re on board, don’t forget to pack all your charging cables in your carry-on. On long-haul flights, your batteries will be eaten up in no time, and given most airlines – even some budget carriers – now provide USB charging ports and full electrical sockets, you’d be crazy not to bring all the accessories necessary to power you through a full flight.

Drink plenty of water

This is one of the keys not just to avoiding jet-lag, but to being comfortable and hydrated for the duration of your flight. It’s also best to avoid eating too much (flights can mess with your digestive system), and to try to exercise both before and after your flight to alleviate jet-lag and keep yourself healthy. Also remember to move around the cabin regularly when you’re on board, and do the recommended exercises to avoid deep vein thrombosis.

Make it a celebration

Quite often, surviving a long-haul flight is a mental game. Go into it with trepidation, and you’ll probably have a bad time. If, however, you decide to treat this experience as a privilege, if you begin the holiday before the flight even takes off, you’ll be in for a far better flight. So, celebrate the travel experience. Shout yourself a glass of champagne at the airport. Buy something nice at duty-free. Indulge in the idea that this flight is going to take you to an exotic part of the world that you’re going to love, and it should be celebrated for it. Do that, and long-haul travel will be a breeze.

How we can help

RAA’s travel consultants can help you book flights or plan your next holiday.

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