Travel offers a world of learning opportunities and adventures of a lifetime. However, getting to your destination is always a sacrifice you have to make—especially if you’re visiting some place halfway around the world. Unless you’re a superstar or super-rich who can afford their own jet or charter a plane each trip, you’re bound to have those exhausting travel days from point A to point B.
Fortunately, travelling doesn’t always have to be exhausting. With the right preparation, you can step off from the plane looking and feeling your best even after a whole day of flying. Some frequent travellers, for example, recommend working out before your flight to get your blood pumping. This can compensate for all sitting you will do on a 14 or 16-hour flight.
As an alternative to working out, you can explore the airport before the flight to get some steps in. In Singapore’s Changi Airport, for example, you’ll never run out of attractions to see and try. In fact, deciding what to do in Changi airport is an exercise in restraint. You have to check the time and make sure you don’t miss your flight from all the spectacular sights the airport has to offer.
As for other tips for a long-haul flight, below are a few suggestions:
Stay Hydrated
It’s crucial to stay hydrated during a long flight. The dry air in the plane’s cabin can quickly lead to dehydration, which could leave you feeling tired and lethargic.
Relying on the flight attendants to bring you extra water may not be the best idea, too, especially if the flight is packed. Also, it’s not ideal to spend a ridiculous amount of money on a bottle of water at the airport. What you can do instead is to bring an empty water bottle that you can refill using the airport’s free water fountains that are usually located near the gates, after the security checks.
Keep Your Skin Moisturised
The low humidity levels on aeroplanes can wreak havoc on your skin, leaving it dry and flaky. Have your favourite moisturiser and lotion handy to keep your face and hands properly hydrated. In addition, carry a lip balm to keep your lips from cracking and peeling. Lastly, consider bringing along a travel-sized facial mist to refresh your skin and keep it feeling soft and supple.
Get as much Sleep as You Can
Sleeping in a plane can be challenging, but it’s essential for combating jet lag and arriving at your destination feeling well-rested. To get your much-needed snooze, invest in a comfortable pillow and eye mask to help block out the light. Veteran travellers also swear by noise-cancelling headphones to eliminate the noise of a crying baby, loud conversations, and the hum of aeroplane engines. If this is not enough for you, you can always play white noise to lull yourself to slumberland.
Stretch and Move
Sitting in the same position for hours on end can lead to stiffness and discomfort. Prevent this by getting up from your seat to stretch after a bathroom break. In addition, you can do simple exercises while sitting down such as neck rolls, shoulder shrugs, and ankle circles. These can help improve circulation and reduce muscle tension.
Freshen Up Before Landing
Before your flight lands, take some time to freshen up and make yourself presentable. A valuable tip is to get up before the rest of the passengers have the same idea and start heading for the bathroom an hour or so before the landing. Brush your teeth, wash your face, and apply deodorant to help you feel clean and refreshed after hours of travel. Consider bringing along travel-sized toiletries in your carry-on bag for easy access.
Limit Screen Time
While your phone or the in-flight movie can help minimise boredom, excessive screen time can and will interfere with your body’s sleep-wake cycle. This makes it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep, which are difficult enough to do while in a long flight.
Give yourself the best chance of getting ample rest by limiting your exposure to screens, such as smartphones, tablets, and in-flight entertainment, especially before bedtime. Instead, opt for activities like reading a book or listening to music to help you relax and unwind.
Eat Well
Lastly, be mindful of what you eat and drink during your flight. You can opt for light, nutritious meals and snacks that will keep you feeling energised without weighing you down. Avoid heavy, greasy foods that can contribute to digestive discomfort. Remember, the aeroplane restroom is incredibly cramped and uncomfortable; if you can manage to use it as quickly as you can, then all the better.
By following these essential tips, you can arrive at your destination feeling and looking your best, ready to tackle whatever adventures lie ahead. Remember to prioritise self-care and listen to your body’s needs during your travels. Safe travels!
