Long haul trips are so exciting for many reasons. Firstly, chances are you’re heading to a completely different destination than where you’re travelling from. Secondly, it will likely be a trip of a lifetime that you will be going to for more than just a day or two. This is why, when you are heading on a long haul trip, you want to make the most of it. There are many things you can do to ensure you get the most from your trip and we’ve outlined some of them in the article below. Keep on reading to find out more and get inspired.
Plan well for your flight
The first thing you want to do when making the most of your long-haul trip is to plan well for your flight. Pack a bag carefully where you will easily be able to access all the items you might need, such as your passport, travel documents and things to keep you amused during the flight, from a game of solitaire, to a good book. Choose your seat ahead of time so you can sit where you are most comfortable. Some people prefer the window so they can lean against it and sleep, while others might prefer the aisle which is good for bathroom access and those who want to stretch their legs and get up and walk.
Avoid seats near to the bathroom as they’re noisy and have lots of people there. Some essentials you should bring in your hand luggage include noise-cancelling headphones, an eye mask, neck pillow and earplugs, as well as lip balm and a toothbrush. Make sure you wear comfortable clothes with layers in case the plane is either too hot or too cold, you can still get comfortable.
Book an airport lounge
When flying long haul, you tend to have to be at the airport around three hours before which can be tedious. To try and make it a bit more relaxing and interesting, why not book the airport lounge? There are many you can make the most of and it can make the start of your trip much more fun! When in the lounge you can indulge in a pre-flight tipple (just remember not to drink too much!) as well as a meal and snacks. You also get a good view of the flights taking off from certain lounges which can be a fun thing to sit and watch! It’s also a good idea to charge all your devices while you are in the lounge, so you can have enough charge on the flight.
Take care of your health on the plane
When on the flight, you also need to take care of your health. Think about what you can do so you arrive at your destination feeling well rested and ready to enjoy everything it has to offer! Drink water to stay hydrated and avoid things like alcohol and caffeine. Walk and stretch every two to three hours to avoid blood clots and do exercises in your seat such as ankle rolls and neck stretches to stop yourself from being too uncomfortable. You should also try to sleep well on the plane as it can help you adjust to the destination time and not feel so tired when you arrive.
If you find it difficult to sleep on planes, you could use melatonin or other sleep aids to help you be well rested. Bring healthy snacks with you such as protein bars and dried fruit. Nuts can be good, but you need to be prepared for them to not be allowed to be eaten if someone has a nut allergy on board!
Be strategic when you land
Just before landing, head to the toilets on the plane where you can get changed, brush your teeth and have a quick wash of your face. This can make you feel a lot fresher and better about adjusting to the time at your destination. Once you disembark, be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and fight jet lag by not sleeping until you would normally go to bed! This can be a challenge, but will really help you adjust to the different time zones! When eating, avoid heavy meals and instead opt for lighter options that can help your digestion to adjust.
Ensure you have plenty of down time
When travelling far, you want to fit in a lot of activities and sightseeing, however it’s vital that you also let yourself have some down time. You’ve travelled far and you need to allow your body to rest and recuperate. Take some time to enjoy the nice weather, flop around a pool at your hotel or on the beach and just relax. If you plan a schedule where you are on the go all the time, you’ll end up burning yourself out and won’t be able to enjoy the trip as a whole as much as you would be able to otherwise.
Have a budget for your trip
These are just a few things you need to do in order to make the most of a long haul trip. While long haul trips can be exhausting, they are so worth it when you get to your destination. You will see things you could only normally imagine, make memories that will last a lifetime and just have the best time of your life. What are some of the top tips you have for making the most of a long haul trip? Let us know in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you.
