Long Flight Travel Tips
Updated: 53 minutes ago
One of the hardest parts of vacation are the flights. Fortunately, we have found some products that make the long haul flight a little more bearable. Obviously seat upgrades can make the biggest impact to your comfort on a 5 hr+ trip, but that's not always feasible. Our tips and tricks are suitable for the economy class folks, like us.
Medications: I personally can't sleep on a plane without a little pharmaceutical help. First and foremost, talk with your healthcare provider about which medications are safe and appropriate for you. Some travelers do well with melatonin or Benadryl alone. Personally, I've had the most success with NyQuil, but that's simply what has worked for me and it may not be appropriate for everyone.
Whatever you choose, consult with your doctor and try it at home before your trip. The last thing you want is to discover you have an allergy, an unexpected side effect, or that a medication affects you differently than expected while you're 35,000 feet in the air. The same advice applies to children. Some kids actually become more energetic after taking medications like Benadryl instead of sleepy, so it's always best to check with your pediatrician and test any medication at home before relying on it during travel.
Eye Mask: A good eye mask is essential to getting some sleep on the plane. I hate the feeling on pressure on my eyes, so I love that this mask contours over the eyes so you don't feel a thin over the eyeballs. It can feel a little vulnerable to wear an eye mask on a plane, but all the flashing lights from screens, overhead lights, or open windows can seriously disrupt your sleep.
Product: Eye Mask
Earplugs: Don't underestimate a good pair of earplugs. Airplanes are surprisingly noisy between the constant engine hum, crying babies, conversations, and flight announcements. A comfortable pair of foam or silicone earplugs can significantly reduce that background noise, making it much easier to relax and fall asleep. Even if you're watching a movie while you try to doze off, the soundtrack constantly changes in volume and pitch, which can keep pulling you out of sleep. When you're ready to call it a night, turn off the movie, pop in your earplugs, and let the steady quiet help you drift off. I always keep a pair in my carry-on because they're lightweight, inexpensive, and take up virtually no space.
Neck Pillow: To neck pillow or not to neck pillow? The answer is YES. This can be a highly individualized item because everyones comfort varies and neck support needs vary. I think the best thing to do is order a few different options and test them all out while leaning against a wall or a high backed seat, such as your car. Return what doesn't fit well. I love my Comfy Commuter. My nursing school classmate did this process and the CC was the winner. The Trtl neck pillow is popular and supposed to be the most supportive; However, I completely hated it. It forced my neck into the same position and I like to move around more or my muscles feel stiff and stuck. I also previously tried a long tubular pillow that is supposed to contort however you want; also hated it. The best pillow has high side support so you can lean your neck to the side and it keeps your head up.
Product: Comfy Commuter
Foot Sling: Having a foot sling is a serious game changer for your in-flight comfort. We have all felt that low back ache from sitting in our seat for 8 hours. The foot sling gets your feet up and alleviates some of the pressure. It also folds up nicely and doesn't take up much space in your bag. 100% worth it.
Product: Amazon Foot Sling
In-Flight Entertainment Bluetooth to Headphones: A must have if you use bluetooth headphones! And for the best flight, I highly recommend you have bluetooth headphones... This little adapter plugs into the entertainment screen's AUX port. It bluetooths to your headphones so you get to enjoy better quality sound and the comfort of your nicer headphones (not those awful in-flight cord headphones they give you... thanks, but no thanks!). It took me 1-2 tries to get the connection but overall is an easy process. There was also one time where only one AirPod connected, so I started over and voilà, it worked. It might sound finicky with my occasional hiccups, but it actually works super well and it's SO worth it (even for short flights!). Make sure to charge it before your flight!
*With this recommendation being said, I always have a spare pair of corded headphones in my carry on for the dreaded AirPods dying event. You hope it never happens, but you prepare for the worst in case!
Product: AirFly Adaptor
We hope these tips make your travels a little smoother and more comfortable. Some things can feel excessive or unnecessary, but I promise the creature comforts are worth it! It's vacation after all, you want to enjoy every minute! Happy packing! Danielle and Jason
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