I’m writing this from Berlin! Isn’t that exciting? Sadly, the flight that took me here was less exciting with about 11 hours in the air and a five-hour layover. Flying for long periods of time is going to take a lot out of you, but if you prepare, it can get a little easier to bear. So, what should you do and what should you avoid when making a big flight?
1. DO – bring a water bottle
An empty one, that is. You can’t bring a giant container of liquid through security, but you can take an empty bottle with you and fill it up on the other side. Sure, you can get free water on the plane, but it will either be in a tiny plastic cup, or in a laughably small bottle of its own.
2. DON’T – Wear too light clothing
Now, maybe you are going to the Caribbean or some other tropical locale where such clothing would be appropriate. However, when you’re hundreds of miles in the sky above your destination and it’s the middle of the night, you may find that you could use a sweater. Try to keep some kind of light jacket in your carry-on or personal item.
3. DO – Bring a mix of electric and non-electric entertainment
It’s easier than ever to have any kind of entertainment you want on a handheld screen. Still, I'd argue that you should still pack something non-digital as an option to entertain yourself with. Why? Because variety is the spice of life, and because looking at a screen for over five hours straight isn’t good for anyone.
4. DON’T – Drink too much
This goes for any drink, though alcohol is a particularly bad idea. Drink as much as you need to stay hydrated, but don’t go overboard, otherwise you’ll be getting up to use the bathroom every five minutes.
5. DO – Bring soft fuzzy socks
While not a necessity, I have to say that a warm pair of soft socks can really be a good item on a long trip. Even when the baby in the seat in front of you is crying, or the cabin smells weird, or you have an awful feeling about the food you ate last night coming back to haunt you, at least your feet will be toasty.
6. DON’T – Wear a belt
This one is more of a general airport rule, but seriously? You are going to have to go through security, and they are going to make you take of your belt. All you have to do on the plane is sit! Did you really need a belt to keep you pants up? Even if your outfit needs a belt for some reason, couldn’t you just keep it in your carry-on and put it on later? Did you have to keep the whole line waiting so we can watch you awkwardly remove your belt in the slowest manner possible? Seriously, no belts.
7. DO – bring earplugs
I feel like I don’t need to explain this one (Noise canceling headphones work too).
8. DON'T - get caught off guard by sickness
Planes are gross when you stop and think about them. You're squished together with a bunch of random strangers breathing the same recycled air for an extended period of time, during which you all share a couple of flying porta-potties. Ew. Planes are a breeding ground for all kinds of ailments, so do yourself a favor and stock up on hand sanitizer if you are going to be in one for a while.
