Long haul flights can be challenging, but with the right preparation and strategies, you can make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable. Here are five essential hacks for surviving long haul flights:

1. Optimize Your Seat Selection
•              Hack: Choose your seat wisely. Use tools like SeatGuru to find the best seats on your flight. Consider an aisle seat for easy access to the restroom and the ability to stretch your legs, or a window seat if you prefer to lean against the wall and avoid disturbances.
2. Stay Hydrated and Bring Snacks
•              Hack: Airplane cabins are notoriously dry, so drink plenty of water before and during the flight. Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated. Pack your own healthy snacks like nuts, fruit, and protein bars to keep your energy up and avoid relying solely on airline food.
3. Dress Comfortably and Layer Up
•              Hack: Wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring layers. Airplane cabins can vary in temperature, so having a sweater or a light jacket can help you stay comfortable. Compression socks can also help improve circulation and reduce the risk of swelling or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
4. Prepare for Sleep
•              Hack: Bring a travel pillow, eye mask, and noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs to help you sleep. A comfortable neck pillow can make a significant difference. Consider using sleep aids like melatonin, but consult with a healthcare professional before doing so.
5. Keep Yourself Entertained and Productive
•              Hack: Load up your devices with movies, TV shows, books, podcasts, and music. Many airlines have limited entertainment options, so having your own content ensures you won’t get bored. Bring portable chargers and all necessary cables to keep your devices powered. Additionally, use the time to catch up on work, write, or plan your trip.

Bonus Tips
•   Move Around: Take short walks and stretch every couple of hours to keep your blood flowing and reduce stiffness.
•   Personal Hygiene: Bring a small toiletry kit with essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, facial wipes, and deodorant to freshen up during the flight.
•   Ear Plugs and Eye Mask: These can be essential for getting some rest by blocking out noise and light.
•   Download Airline Apps: Many airlines offer entertainment and services through their apps. Download them before your flight for access to in-flight entertainment, menus, and other features.
By following these hacks, you can make your long haul flight more comfortable and arrive at your destination feeling more refreshed and ready to go.