How to survive a long flight comfortably

First things first: your carry-on is your lifeline. Don’t just toss in a random book and a half-empty water bottle. Start with the essentials—noise-canceling headphones (trust me, they’re a real shift), a neck pillow that actually supports your head (the inflatable ones are great for saving space), and layers of clothing. Airlines love to crank the AC, so a lightweight scarf or hoodie is your best friend. Throw in some moisturizer and lip balm too—dry cabin air will suck the life out of your skin. And for the love of all things holy, bring an empty water bottle to fill up after security. Hydration is key, and you don’t want to rely on those tiny cups the flight attendants hand out.

This isn’t the time to impress anyone with your fashion sense. Skip the jeans, tight waistbands, or anything that restricts movement. Opt for loose, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen—think joggers, leggings, or a comfy maxi dress. Layers are your best friend here because temperatures can swing from freezing to stuffy in a heartbeat. Slip-on shoes are a must (you’ll thank me when you’re taking them off to stretch your toes), and compression socks can help prevent swelling and keep your circulation flowing. If you’re prone to cold feet, pack a pair of cozy socks too. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, a lightweight eye mask and earplugs can make all the difference when you’re trying to sleep through a screaming baby or bright cabin lights.

Airplane cabins are basically deserts with wings. The humidity levels are lower than the Sahara, which means your skin, throat, and sinuses will dry out faster than a forgotten houseplant. Drink water like it’s your full-time job—aim for at least one cup every hour. Avoid alcohol and caffeine (I know, I know, but they’ll dehydrate you even more), and skip the salty snacks that’ll leave you feeling bloated. If you’re prone to dry eyes, bring some saline drops or artificial tears. A hydrating face mist can also be a little luxury that makes you feel human again. Pro tip: ask the flight attendants for water instead of waiting for them to come around. They’re usually happy to help, and you’ll stay ahead of the dehydration game.

Sitting for hours on end is basically the opposite of what your body wants to do. But unless you’ve got a first-class ticket with lie-flat seats, you’re stuck in that cramped space for a while. The key? Move as much as possible. Set a timer on your phone to get up and walk the aisle every hour or two—it’ll help prevent stiffness and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (yikes, but real talk). While you’re seated, do some simple stretches like ankle circles, neck rolls, or even just wiggling your toes. If you’re feeling ambitious, try some seated yoga poses (Google “airplane yoga” for ideas). And if the seatbelt sign is off, take a lap to the bathroom just to stretch your legs. Your body will thank you later when you’re not hobbling off the plane like a 90-year-old.

Let’s be real: in-flight entertainment can be hit or miss. The screens might be tiny, the selection limited, or worse—your screen could be broken. Don’t leave your entertainment up to chance. Load up your tablet or phone with movies, podcasts, or audiobooks before you board. Download a few episodes of your favorite show, or try a new podcast (I’m obsessed with The Daily for news or My Dad Wrote a Porno for laughs). If you’re a reader, bring a physical book or an e-reader loaded with your next page-turner. Puzzle books like Sudoku or crosswords are great for passing time too. And if you’re traveling with a friend, bring a deck of cards or a travel-sized board game. Pro tip: noise-canceling headphones are worth every penny if you want to drown out the engine noise or your neighbor’s snoring.

Airline food is… well, let’s just say it’s an acquired taste. If you’re not into mystery meat or sad salads, pack your own snacks. Think protein bars, nuts, dried fruit, or even a sandwich from the airport (just avoid anything too smelly—your neighbors will thank you). If you’re on a long-haul flight, the meal service can be a nice distraction, but don’t feel like you have to eat it all. Listen to your body and eat when you’re actually hungry. And if you’re trying to sleep, skip the heavy meals that’ll leave you feeling sluggish. Pro tip: bring a small pack of gum or mints to help with ear pressure during takeoff and landing. It’s a small thing, but it makes a big difference when your ears feel like they’re about to explode.

Your seat doesn’t have to feel like a punishment. Bring a few small comforts to trick your brain into thinking you’re in a cozy nest instead of a metal tube. Start with a soft blanket or large scarf to drape over yourself—it’s amazing how much warmer and more secure it makes you feel. A small pillow (or even a rolled-up hoodie) can make the armrests less of a torture device. If you’re sensitive to light, an eye mask is a must, and earplugs or noise-canceling headphones will help block out the engine hum. Some people swear by a lavender-scented sleep spray or a dab of essential oil on their wrists to relax. And if you’re really committed, bring a pair of fuzzy socks to change into once you’re settled. It’s the little things that make a big difference.

At the end of the day, a long flight is what you make of it. If you go in dreading every minute, you’ll probably have a miserable time. But if you reframe it as a chance to unplug, relax, or even get some work done, it can feel a lot more manageable. Think of it like a mini retreat—no emails, no chores, just you and your thoughts (or your book, or your movie). If you’re traveling with a partner or friend, use the time to chat, play games, or even plan your trip. And if you’re flying solo, embrace the solitude. Bring a journal and write down your thoughts, or use the time to meditate (there are great apps like Headspace or Calm for this). The flight will pass faster than you think, and before you know it, you’ll be landing with a fresh perspective—and maybe even a little excitement for what’s ahead.