Long flights can be rough. You're excited about your destination but the idea of being stuck in a seat for ten, twelve, or even fifteen hours? Not so fun.

At Fayyaz Travels, we've helped countless travelers get through these journeys with a little more comfort (and a lot less boredom). We believe your holiday should start the moment you leave home, not just when you land. So, we've put together our top 10 tips to help you make your next long-haul flight a whole lot more comfortable.

What to prepare before a long flight?

A good flight experience often starts before you even get to the airport. A little bit of prep can go a long way.

Book flights early for good seats 

This might seem very obvious but booking your flight well in advance gives you the best chance of grabbing a good seat. Whether you prefer the aisle for easy movement, the window for views, or a spot with extra legroom, the early bird gets the worm. Here’s something a lot of people don’t know about: if you don’t want to pay extra for seat selection, just wait for online check-in options for airlines on their app and then choose the seat you want.

Adjust your sleep pattern before the flight 

A few days before you fly, try to gradually shift your sleep schedule closer to the time zone of your destination. If you're flying west, stay up later. If you're flying east, sleep earlier. Even a 1-hour shift helps. This can really help your body adjust more smoothly once you land.

You’ll thank us for not choosing fashion over comfort 

During long flights, just focus on being comfortable by wearing loose, breathable clothing and dressing in layers. The temperature inside a plane cabin can go up and down, so having a sweater or hoodie you can easily take on or off is a good idea. Trust us, no one remembers what you wore, but you’ll definitely remember how tight your jeans felt.

How to be comfortable during long flights?

Pack an eye mask and headphones These two items are easily your best friends on a long flight. An eye mask blocks out the cabin lights and noise-canceling headphones are a lifesaver for drowning out engine noise and crying babies. It helps create an environment where you can actually rest or watch movies and shows.

Elevate your feet and wear compression socks

Sitting for long periods can cause your feet and ankles to swell and feel very tired even if they’re not being used. Propping your feet up on your carry-on bag can help. Or if you can, try to wear compression socks since they improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of swelling and blood clots.

Check In Early

Checking in early online not only saves you time at the airport but also gives you another chance to confirm your seat. Sometimes, airlines release better seats closer to the departure date or if you haven’t already selected a seat, you can choose a seat of your own choosing.

How can you make a long flight enjoyable?

Pre-Download Movies and Podcasts

All long flights generally have an in-flight entertainment system, but it might have movies or shows which you don’t like or maybe some that you’ve watched too much of. Or, chances are, it might not even work, so we suggest not to rely on them. Instead, before you leave home, download a few movies, a season of a TV show or a bunch of podcasts of your liking onto your phone or tablet. And remember to fully charge your devices or bring a power bank along.

Bring Your Own Snacks

Airplane food isn’t always great, and if you’re already feeling unwell, unappetizing food can make the experience even worse. Packing some of your own favorite snacks means you'll have something you actually enjoy eating. Things like nuts, granola bars, and dried fruit are great options that travel well.

What’s the best seat to choose for a long flight?

What we’re about to say might seem strange but choosing the back of the plane for your seat might be the best option. This is because these are often the last to fill up and if the flight isn't full, you might have a better chance of getting an empty seat or even a whole row to yourself back there. This gives you more room to stretch out, which is a huge plus on a long journey. The downside is that it can be a bit noisier and you’ll be the last to get off the plane. It’s a trade-off, but one that can pay off especially on longer routes, where we think that comfort matters a lot more.

Of course, the ultimate comfort is upgrading your seat. If your budget allows, upgrading to premium economy or business class offers more space, better food, and more amenities. It can completely change the long-haul experience.

How to get ready for long flights?

Surviving a long flight is really just about being prepared. With these tips, you can turn what could be a long, uncomfortable ordeal into a much more pleasant and restful journey. It’s about taking control of your environment and making smart choices that set you up for a great start to your trip.

At Fayyaz Travels, we know that every great journey starts long before takeoff. From finding the best flight routes to arranging stays that match your comfort, we handle every detail so you can focus on enjoying the experience. Whether it’s choosing the perfect seat, managing tricky layovers, or planning your dream itinerary, our team makes sure your travel feels effortless from the moment you leave home. Contact our expert team today and plan a trip of your own choosing with us hassle-free.

FAQs

How can I survive long flights in economy? 

Choose a comfortable seat, wear loose clothing, and bring your own travel essentials like a neck pillow, snacks, and noise-canceling headphones. Moving around every few hours also helps you stay comfortable and avoid stiffness.

How do I survive a 15-hour flight in economy?

Plan ahead with entertainment, snacks, and hydration. Try to sleep in intervals, stretch often, and use compression socks to improve circulation. Setting your watch to your destination’s time early can also help reduce jet lag.

How can I survive long flights with anxiety? 

Practice deep breathing, listen to calming music, or use guided meditation apps. Choose an aisle seat so you can move freely and talk to the cabin crew if you need reassurance. Keeping your mind occupied helps ease anxious thoughts.

What makes long flights more comfortable? 

Noise-canceling headphones, portable chargers, travel pillows, eye masks, and tablet stands are great for long flights. These small gadgets can make a big difference in your comfort and help the time pass more quickly.

What should I avoid doing on a long flight? 

Try to avoid drinking too much alcohol or caffeine, as they can dehydrate you and disrupt your sleep. Also, try not to sit in one position for the entire flight. Get up and walk around every couple of hours to keep your blood flowing.

Is it better to sleep or stay awake on a long flight? 

It depends on your arrival time. If you’re arriving at your destination in the morning, it's a good idea to get as much sleep as you can on the plane. If you land in the evening, you might want to limit your sleep so you can adjust to the local time more easily.

How can I manage jet lag after a long flight? 

Once you arrive, try to get on the local schedule as soon as possible. Spend time outdoors in the daylight, stay hydrated, and avoid long naps. It helps reset your body's internal clock. Planning a relaxed first day can also help. If this sounds like a hassle, Fayyaz Travels can plan your itinerary to ease you into your holiday.