Travel attendants reveal the most useful hacks when taking long-hour international flights


Flight attendants are always traveling, so they definitely have had enough time to sharpen their travelling skills. They know how you can fly hassle-free with kids, combat jet lag, help you get upgraded and fly comfortably. Moreover, they can advise on the type of food and drinks you should take — and which ones to avoid! — how to deal with acrophobia (the fear of heights), which clothing you should wear for a long haul flight, how not to pick germs on a plane, and most importantly how to fly with courtesy. 

We talked to some flight attendants on traveling hacks for long-haul flights and this is what they told us.

Pack some hygiene essentials

Travel attendants reveal the most useful hacks when taking long-hour international flights

Pack travel-size mouthwash, deodorant, wet wipes, and some hand sanitizer on your next trip. These products will help you feel comfortable and human on long haul flights. Also, don’t forget to pack, facial mist, lip balm, some eye drops, and moisturizer. This is because your skin tends to dry faster at high altitudes, and moisturizer will help your skin feel refreshed and hydrated.

Bring an eye mask

A face mask is a must, as it helps in blocking light that affects your sleep significantly. We would suggest a heated eye mask to place below your light-blocking eye mask, as well.

Snacks and a water bottle

The quality of food served in-flight varies from flight to flight. Most long-haul flights serve a meal and snacks some hours before landing, but if you don’t like their food, you can bring some snacks to keep you going.

Another hack is to order a special diet if you can’t wait for your meal. Special meals are given priority and are served first, helping you calm down your hunger pangs. Additionally, flight attendants advise against taking carbonated drinks on a long-distance flight, since they cause an uncomfortably bloated feeling. They also advise against drinking, as it reduces the potential of your body absorbing oxygen. This can cause lightheadedness at high altitude. Even worse, drinks dehydrate you and makes you feel more tired. 

Pack your gadgets

Don’t forget to pack your phone charger, considering that you’ll need it to charge your electronics. In addition to this, bring some noise-canceling headphones. Also, please don’t complain about sitting next to a parent with small kids. Children can sometimes be troublesome, but try to have compassion for the parents and understand it’s difficult for them. You were once a kid, so be kind and get earplugs. Most airlines provide them when you fly long haul, but bring your own, just in case. 

Dress light

You’re not on a fashion runway — you’re on an airport runway. Always opt for comfortable clothing, and don’t forget to carry a sweater with you, since several airlines keep the planes cold. Also, wearing sandals or sneakers is far more comfortable than loafers or high heels for long haul flights.

Find the right neck pillow

You need a neck pillow so you don’t crane your neck into your chest, don’t slide sideways, and help you fall asleep faster.

Grab a good seat.

Do you like taking some cool pictures midflight? A window seat is the best for you. But make sure to visit the washrooms before the start of your flight so you don’t disturb your seatmates. If you anticipate going to the bathroom numerous times, though, choose an aisle seat. However, keep in mind that you’ll have to stand up in front of those in the middle and window seat whenever you want to stretch or to go to the washroom.

Travel attendants reveal the most useful hacks when taking long-hour international flights

Move your body

Moving your body before, during, and after a long-distance flight is important. You can jog before your flight to help you get to sleep faster. Apart from this, walk down the aisle and take a few stretches to keep you comfortable on a plane. And when you reach your destination, don’t forget a short exercise session when you do land!

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