17 Invaluable Tips to Get You Ready for the Long Haul

Many people miss out on incredible travel experiences because they dread the prospect of a long-haul flight. I understand completely. Before my recent 17-hour journey from Fort Lauderdale to Tokyo, I spent weeks worrying about the flight itself rather than the adventure ahead. As departure day approached, I imagined endless hours trapped in a cramped seat, unable to sleep, read, or get comfortable.

While long-haul travel is never going to feel like a day at the spa, a little preparation made the experience far more manageable than I expected. In fact, several items I packed and a few habits I adopted turned out to be absolute lifesavers.

As we get older, travel can present additional challenges. I’ve noticed that it takes me longer to recover from jet lag than it once did. After long flights, my knees and back can ache for days, and swollen ankles and feet have become unwelcome travel companions. It took me almost three days to acclimatize myself after landing in Tokyo with issues like fogginess, headaches and insomnia.

If you’re planning a long-haul trip, here are some tips that helped me:

Check in Early

Set an alarm for the airline’s 24-hour online check-in window. Not only will you avoid standing in line at airport kiosks or counters, but you’ll also have a better chance of selecting your preferred seat.

Travel Light

I can’t stress this enough. Traveling with only carry-on luggage saves time, reduces stress, and eliminates the possibility of lost or stolen checked baggage which can ruin a trip. Usually, I take a carry-on bag, a backpack and a small handbag. Check with your airline as restrictions have changed.

Arrive Earlier Than Necessary

Most airlines recommend arriving two hours before departure for international flights. I prefer three. Long TSA lines, terminal changes and unexpected delays can quickly eat into your time and leave you rushing to the gate feeling hot, sweaty, and stressed before the trip has even begun.

Protect Your Essentials

Invest in a secure crossbody bag for your passport, boarding pass, wallet, phone, medications, debit card, and emergency cash. Anti-theft bags with slash-resistant straps are excellent investments and useful throughout your entire trip, not just at the airport.

Bring a Backpack

A small backpack that fits under the seat in front of you can be a lifesaver. Mine contains everything I might need during the flight, including snacks, zip-loc bags, chargers, cellphone, a good book, headphones and toiletries. It also doubles as a footrest when needed to prevent ankle swelling.

Stay Hydrated

Bring a refillable water bottle and fill it after passing through security. Airplane cabins are notoriously dry, and staying hydrated can help reduce fatigue and ease the effects of jet lag.

I also pack powdered electrolytes to add to my water during the flight. Electrolytes help with jet lag and dehydration and come in single use packs for convenience.

Pack Smart Snacks

Airline food is often high in sodium and fat which can leave you feeling bloated. For longer flights I bring two sandwiches, protein bars, crackers, nuts and candy. Bringing your own food gives you options in case you don’t like airplane food. Also, on long hauls, sometimes there is up to 8 hours between service which can cause headaches and other problems.

Headphones Matter

Bring over-the-ear and in-ear headphones. Don’t forget an adapter cable if you plan to use the in-flight entertainment system. Bring your regular in-ear headphones for non-plane use. My in-ear headphones would not connect on my trip, so I was happy I also had plug-in headphones.

Don’t Forget Earplugs and an Eye Mask

Even if you have noise-canceling headphones, earplugs are invaluable when trying to sleep. Pair them with a good quality padded eye mask that doesn’t press directly on your eyes for the best chance of getting some rest.

Compression Socks Are a Lifesaver

I have said this before and I will say it again, compression socks were one of the smartest items I packed for my flight to Japan. By the time I landed, my feet and ankles felt noticeably better than they had on previous long-haul journeys. Remember to take them off after you land to give your legs a break.

Pack Ballet Slippers

They are perfect for trips to the airplane restroom. They slip on quickly and save you from wrestling with shoes every time you get up. Invest in the fold up ones you can also use in your hotel.

Move Around Regularly

Set a timer to remind yourself to stand up and walk every couple of hours. It improves circulation and helps prevent stiffness in the knees, hips, and back. Also, do foot and leg stretches and massage your legs to keep the blood circulating.

Dress for Comfort

There is a whole industry centered around airport chic. My go-to airport outfit is leggings or sweatpants, a dark long-sleeved shirt, a thick zip up hoodie, and sneakers. I also pack a clean T-shirt to change into before landing and which doubles as a pillow.

Bring Twice as Much Entertainment Than You Think You’ll Need

Pack a book you’re genuinely excited to read, a couple of magazines, and download movies, television shows, podcasts, and music to both your phone and laptop before you leave.

On my trip to Japan, I quickly discovered that I had already seen many of the movies available on the flight. Having my own entertainment options saved me from hours of boredom.

Carry a Reading Light

Airplane overhead lights aren’t always sufficient, particularly for mature eyes. A small reading light allows you to enjoy a book without disturbing nearby passengers.

Pack a Small Toiletry Kit

Keep a toothbrush, toothpaste, wipes, moisturizer, lip balm, hairbrush, and mouthwash within easy reach. Freshening up before landing can make a remarkable difference in how you feel.

My Favorite Flying Hack

One of my favorite travel hacks is carrying a small jar of Vicks VapoRub. A little dab on a tissue can mask unpleasant odors, soothe dry nasal passages, and provide a comforting scent that helps me relax and sleep.

Long-haul flights may never be enjoyable, but they don’t have to be miserable. With a little preparation, the right gear and realistic expectations, you can arrive rested, comfortable, and ready to embrace whatever adventure awaits on the other side of the world.

Let’s Chat:

What’s your favorite hack for long hauls? Do long flights feel different to you after 60? In what ways?