Long-haul flights can be daunting, especially when you think about the amount of time you spend sitting in one seat, surrounded by people you don't know. Moreover, some people who fly are sick and some children end up crying the whole way, making the experience less enjoyable. So here is a list of essential tips to remember for your next long-haul flight so you're able to enjoy the entire journey.

1. Get plenty of sleep the night before

The worst thing about long-haul flights is the time change, so it’s super important you get a good night’s sleep before you travel. Moreover, it’s not fun for you or anyone else if you travel cranky because you didn’t get enough sleep before your flight.

2. Wear comfortable clothes

I believe comfort comes first when flying, so wearing comfortable clothes is the first step. The simpler your outfit, the faster you will get through security. I avoid pants and wear leggings so I don’t have to deal with a belt, I wear shoes I can easily take on and off, and I avoid jewelry because it’s packed in my carry-on.

3. Pack a change of clothes

Including a sweater, a change of clothes is life-saving on long-haul flights. I like to be comfortable and not worry about what my clothes will look life after flying in them for over eight hours.

4. Pack a small bag of makeup

Keep this within the limit of liquid you’re allowed to take on board but this is what I take with myself: a tube of concealer and sponge, a small tube of primer, an eyelash curler and one to two tubes of mascara, a travel-size perfume spray bottle, my eyebrow powder and brushes, and a chapstick and eye drops. This way you won’t worry about your makeup being ruined during the time you sleep and this way you can freshen up before you land.

5. Put essentials in a backpack and the rest in a carry-on

Taking a separate carry-on suitcase will help you save valuable time looking for important items in your backpack. Rather than cramming it full, take only what you’ll need immediate access to before, during and after the flight, and put everything else in the carry-on.

6. Bring entertainment

If you plan to sleep through most of the flight, then maybe only worry about having a few movies to watch, but the worst part about a long-haul flight is how it seems to never end. You should also bring noise-canceling headphones for watching or listening to your own media and bring earplugs for when you want to sleep.

7. Buy water and snacks before boarding

Once you’ve cleared security, buy yourself a bottle of water so you don’t have to keep asking the flight attendant for more water. Snacks are great if they don’t serve you enough food, or if you end up not liking the food you still have an alternative.

8. Remember your neck pillow

This will become your new best friend if, like me, you wake up each time your head bobs forward while sitting upright. If you don't have a neck pillow a scarf can work just as well in a window seat.

9. Keep moving

Flights can get tedious and your body will start to feel it after sitting in one position. If you’re the type of person who likes to get up to stretch often, then consider choosing an aisle seat. However, even doing some exercises and stretches while in your seat can help increase blood flow to your legs.