Taking a long haul flight should not be an activity that is full of angst and worry, but for many people this is unfortunately the case. If you are planning a long-haul flight in the near future, and are already concerned as to how you will keep your blood pressure low when on board, the following advice should help in making the journey non-eventful, and perhaps even a pleasant experience.
- Stay Hydrated - Make sure to drink plenty of liquids, and I don't mean pounding a bunch of beers either. If you're on a 12 hour flight, you had better keep the liquid flowing. Don't be shy, order two drinks at a time so you don't have to keep bugging the flight attendant to fill your glass. An airplane maintains an extremely dry environment so you need to stay hydrated.
- Seating - Choose your seat wisely. I personally take an aisle seat. An aisle seat not only allows you to stretch your legs during the air crews' 'no-activity' time but it offers you the freedom to get out of your seat without disturbing others and when you want. If you are loyal to a particular airline, in many cases the airlines offer free upgrade to Economy Plus or a similar class which has wider seats and more leg room.
- Reading - Reading books will make your journey come to an end quicker. Choose the books and magazines of your interest and you will be amazed to see how much they help you in making your journey enjoyable. I love to read motivational and personality development books and most of the time I can easily finish reading them on my long haul flights
- Pack a Lunch -It is advisable to bring some snacks or maybe a sandwich for your journey. If you don't want to do that, then you may want to eat a meal before you fly. You will get at least 2 meals and a snack on a 12 hour flight, but that still may leave you hungry by the time you arrive at your destination.
- Comfortable clothes - Wear loose, flexible clothes that are warm and comfortable. Warm and fluffy is better than tight and stuffy. Stay away from buttons, belts, collars, and suits. Stick with moccasins and sweatshirts and sweatpants. Long flights can get cold so the sweats are necessary.
Long-haul flights do not have to be uncomfortable, and if you make it part of your journey and see it as a means to an end, you may find your travel experience much more enjoyable!