Most people love the idea of traveling—exploring new places, meeting people, or simply relaxing somewhere sunny. What’s far less appealing is the reality of sitting for endless hours on a long-haul flight, squeezed into a narrow seat in economy. Unless you’re lucky enough to afford first-class luxury, intercontinental flights can feel like an endurance test.
I grew up flying regularly, often between Europe and South America, and as a child I never thought twice about the hours on board. I was too busy enjoying the excitement of the trip and the attention of kind flight attendants. But years later, after experiencing painful ear issues during a landing and circulation problems on another flight, I began to take these journeys much more seriously. Over time, I’ve developed some reliable habits to make long flights more bearable—and even enjoyable.
What to Pack in Your Carry-On
A well-prepared carry-on bag is essential. I always keep mine under the seat in front of me so I can reach it easily throughout the flight. Here are the items I never fly without:
- Baby wipes to freshen up when water isn’t available
- Phone, chargers, and good earphones (the airline-provided ones rarely cut it)
- Kindle or e-reader loaded with books and notes
- Power bank for extra battery life
- Pen and notebook
- Snacks and energy bars in case the meal isn’t appealing
- A small pouch with toothbrush, toothpaste, lip balm, moisturizer, hand sanitizer, and any medication I need
- An extra pair of socks for walking around the cabin
- Travel pillow, eye mask, and a lightweight blanket or wrap
Regardless of the season, I always bring a sweater. The cabin temperature can get uncomfortably cold, and layering makes a huge difference.
Staying Healthy in the Air
One of the biggest risks of long flights is poor circulation. After once nearly developing phlebitis, I now take precautions every time I fly. On long journeys, I wear compression stockings, slip off my shoes after takeoff, and move my legs regularly. Simple stretches like ankle circles or lifting your feet off the ground really help, and most airlines now encourage passengers to exercise during the flight. Drinking plenty of water is equally important, even if it means frequent bathroom breaks.
Ear pain is another common issue, especially during takeoff and landing. To prevent problems, I carry decongestants, anti-inflammatories, and special earplugs. Chewing gum or yawning also helps equalize pressure. And if you wear contact lenses, it’s often better to switch to glasses, as the dry cabin air can irritate your eyes.
Moisturizing is key, too. Air conditioning dehydrates your skin and lips quickly, so I use creams, lip balm, and sometimes eye drops to stay comfortable. For those prone to motion sickness, it’s worth having anti-nausea tablets on hand—you can even pick them up at most airport pharmacies.
Choosing the Right Seat
Selecting the right seat can transform your flight experience. I used to love the window seat for the view, but now I prefer the aisle so I can get up and move around easily. If you’re flying during off-peak times, you may even score a row with extra space to stretch out.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when picking your seat:
- Bulkhead seats offer more legroom, but you won’t be able to store a bag at your feet.
- Exit row seats also provide space, though with the same storage limitation.
- Seats in front of the engines are quieter than those further back.
- If turbulence worries you, choose a spot over the wings, where the ride feels steadier.
- Avoid seats near the toilets due to constant traffic and noise.
- The very last row in economy is often the most uncomfortable, with limited recline.
Final Thoughts
Long flights may never be the highlight of travel, but with the right preparation, they don’t have to feel like torture. A little planning—packing smartly, caring for your health, and choosing a good seat—can make the hours pass far more smoothly. In the end, the destination is worth it, but the journey can be pleasant too if you know how to handle it.
