Tips for Booking a Long-Haul Flight

Flights of five hours or more require a bit of extra planning and consideration. An actual meal may be served, there may be in-flight entertainment and you may consider taking off your shoes to get more comfortable. To help first-time long haulers avoid the unexpected, review the list below of questions to ask yourself before booking your inaugural hours-long flight.

Will food be served? As of late, certain airlines have changed their in-flight meal service options to cut the cost of the overall airfare. Be sure to research this information in advance so you’re not left starving for hours with only the option to purchase a $15 plane meal, which will probably leave much to be desired. Alternatively, pack snacks for the flights to avoid going hungry. Although water is usually free on board, purchase extra water bottles at the airport shops to keep yourself hydrated.

Will there be in-flight entertainment? Budget long-haul airlines removed this amenity from some of their flights in yet another effort to cut down on costs. Rather then boarding a plane and discovering this unfortunate surprise upon settling into your seat, download a few movies or television shows to your personal tablet or mobile phone. If you prefer to sleep or read during the flight, arm yourself with an e-reader, an eye mask and ear plugs.

Is it an overnight flight? Pay close attention to the flight’s departure times and landing times as these will be local times. If an overnight flight is part of your agenda, a decision must be made about whether it would be beneficial to sleep on the plane. Most overnight flights dim the lights and provide pillows and blankets to passengers to facilitate a peaceful environment. If you need to take melatonin or a sleeping aid, ensure you will have enough time to sleep to avoid waking up drowsy, although the jet lag may contribute to this post-plane sluggishness.

In conclusion, remember flying is meant to be an enjoyable time to disconnect from the internet and emails, and to allow yourself a mini vacation in the skies.