Whether you’re off on a family vacation or a business trip, long-haul journeys can take their toll on your mental and physical wellbeing. No matter how much experience you have with traveling, the process of getting from A to B can be exhausting, leaving you feeling run down and lethargic once you arrive at your destination. To keep your spirits up and ensure you’re in the right mindset, here are 5 hacks to make long flights easier.
1. Avoid Junk Food
During a long-haul journey, you may be tempted to eat junk food to keep you going. However, while they may give you an initial energy boost, it’s likely that you will feel sluggish and rundown once you arrive at your destination. Instead of reaching for processed foods, try to stick with healthier alternatives. Fresh or dried fruit, whole-grain pretzels, and hummus cups are tasty snacks that will keep your energy levels up, helping you to stay focused and alert throughout your trip.
2. Bring Noise Canceling Headphones
If you’re heading to your destination via plane, being on an aircraft with other passengers can make it hard to relax and unwind. Long-haul journeys mean you will have many hours in the air, so keeping yourself occupied and entertained throughout is crucial. If you don’t have the luxury of being in first class, it’s advised to bring a pair of noise-canceling headphones with you that will allow you to zone out from other noises and let you concentrate. Whether you want to listen to music, watch a film, or get some sleep, headphones will definitely make long flights easier.
3. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Whether you’re going away for business or pleasure, it’s vital that you’re full of energy and ready for a long day of traveling. Getting a good night’s sleep beforehand is crucial, so make sure that you set enough time before setting off to dedicate towards rest.
If you struggle to get enough sleep, it’s important that you sleep on a comfortable mattress that provides maximum support and comfort. There are also relaxation techniques such as meditation, which can reduce stress levels and aid sleep. Also, make sure that there are no distractions in your bedroom, which may hinder how much sleep you get. If you’re prone to scrolling through social media on your phone before hitting the hay, it’s best to place it out of reach.
4. Stay Hydrated
No matter what mode of transport you use to get to your destination, it’s vital that you keep hydrated throughout. The last thing you want is to get headaches and feel fatigued during your trip, so make sure that you bring a water bottle with you that you can regularly top up. If you’re traveling by air, the cabin pressure can dehydrate you and leave you feeling fatigued once you arrive, so make sure that you drink plenty of water before and throughout your trip.
5. Dress Comfortably
The attire you wear for your trip can have a huge impact on how much you enjoy the experience. If you’re traveling long-haul, it’s advised to wear comfortable clothing like an oversized sweater. If you wear clothes that are restrictive or too formal, you may not be able to fully relax, and when you take into account how long your journey is, it’s always best to choose comfort over style.
There are many reasons why you may be going on a long trip, so to ensure you get from A to B safely and in the best mindset possible, all the hacks listed above can help make sure your journey runs smoothly and according to plan.
What are your tips to make long flights easier? Share in the comments.
Great tips. Long haul flights are always my downfall and the reason I haven’t gone further than Europe.