How to Prepare for a Long-Distance Flight


Are you planning a long-distance flight in the near future? Whether it’s across the country or Atlantic or Pacific Ocean, you should take the necessary measures to prepare for it in advance. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for a long-distance flight.

Check Airline’s Baggage Rules

It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the airline’s baggage rules. Specifically, find out the airline’s weight limit for baggage. There’s no universal limit for all baggage. Rather, it varies depending on the airline. Spirit Airlines, for example, allows passengers to bring one checked bag with a maximum weight of 50 pounds. Staying within this limit will help you avoid expensive baggage fees.

Food and Entertainment

In addition to baggage rules, you should also check the airline’s food and entertainment. Although there are exceptions, most airlines serve meals and snacks on long-distance flights. But even if your airline serves food, you might prefer something else. Find out what food and entertainment the airline offers for long-distance flights. There’s nothing worse than being stuck on an eight-hour flight with inferior food and no entertainment. Of course, you can usually bring your own food, but you’ll probably be required to dispose of it when passing through customs.

Bring a Neck Pillow and Eye Mask

As most seasoned air travelers know, a neck pillow and eye mask are essential for long-distance flights. Once the plane has reached its cruising altitude, you can kick back and relax. A neck pillow will support your head, allowing you to rest upright, while an eye mask helps to block out light. A third item to consider bringing on your long-distance flight is noise-cancelling headphones and earphones.

Wear Multiple Layers

For the highest level of comfort, wear multiple layers when traveling via long-distance flight. Most airlines keep their cabin at about 70 to 74 degrees Fahrenheit. But cabin temperatures can fluctuate, so you may find yourself getting cold or hot. By wearing multiple layers, however, you can easily adjust your outfit according to the climate. If you get hot, you can remove an outer layer or two. If you get cold, you can put back on the removed layer or layers.

Get Plenty of Sleep

It’s nearly impossible to avoid jet lag, but you can minimize its effect by getting plenty of sleep the night before your flight. Many travelers experience anxiety before flying, which can make it difficult to fall asleep. And without sleep, jet lag is intensified.