So, you've booked a trip to the other side of the world and there are a lot of things you're undoubtedly looking forward to. However, there are certain things that won't make this list, with completing your long haul flight likely being one of them. Yes, the unfortunate part of travelling is the fact that we have to endure the long, and sometimes stressful, hours of being in an airplane.
Today, we're going to help you prepare for the mental and physical stresses of a long haul flight.
How to get organised
Getting ready for a long haul flight starts with organisation. Make a packing checklist to ensure you don't forget anything and double check it before you zip that luggage. Then, lay out all the important papers or things you'll need along the way like your passport, visa, ID, wallet and your cell phone. As long as you have these things, you can let your mind rest. Forgetting your underwear isn't as big a deal as forgetting your wallet back at home, after all!
How to prep yourself mentally
You're going to be sitting in one seat for hours on end, surrounded by strangers and stale air and just thinking about it is enough to make anyone stir crazy! So, you need a plan to get yourself ready. The night before you leave, do what you need to do to de-stress yourself. Enjoy a healthy meal, go to the gym and drink water. These things will help put your mind in the right place, calming you prior to the flight. That said, do your best to avoid stressful television programs or movies. Watching 'Taken' or 'Lost' could make your mind run wild with terrifying scenarios that likely would never happen outside of Hollywood.
Part of this preparation is readying your in-flight entertainment. Don't forget to bring your new book, colouring supplies, music or podcasts (downloaded, of course) or work materials if you're travelling for business. Being organised and knowing you have everything will help ease your mind before travelling.
How to prep yourself physically
Long haul flights are tough on the body so you have to be prepared going into it. You can start prepping your body the night before. Going to the gym will help your body get rid of built up tension, however, you'll want to ensure you do plenty of stretching to get rid of the lactic acid which would make your muscles sore on the plane. Even if you don't go to the gym, one of the best ways to prep for a long flight is with some stretching and hydration.
Once you're on the plane, there are a couple of things you can do to ensure you don't get too stiff. First of all, don't be afraid to get up, and not just to go to the bathroom. Go for a walk up and down the aisle and even do some light stretching, your muscles will thank you for it. If you're getting restless in your seat, consider using a tennis ball to relieve the tension in your muscles as well. The hardness of the ball makes for the perfect pressure, it'll feel like an in-flight massage.
Additionally, your sanity is only going to remain in tact as long as your appetite is satisfied. You don't have to wait for the flight attendants to serve meals, bring your own food! That way you're sure you're going to like what you eat and you can stay comfortable the whole trip.
How to recover
Now you have to tackle the infamous jet lag. You don't want to miss out on adventures beacause you're stuck in your old time zone. Sometimes, excitement is enough adrenaline to keep you going, allowing you to overcome the time difference. But other times, even excitement will be prioritised behind sleep. Technically, logic says it takes a full day to recover from each time zone you travel through, but you can help speed things up.
First, be sure to get a good night's sleep the day before you fly out as this will help your body get ready for the drastic changes it's about to make. Dehydration also makes jet lag worse, so be sure to drink plenty of water and, unfortunately, skip the alcoholic beverages. Finally, keep an eye on the time that you're travelling to. Try to time your sleep on the plane with theirs, even if that has you forcing yourself to stay awake past your usual bedtime.
One last tip
Don't forget – you rarely remember the details of the actual travel experience if you do everything right. By following these tips, you make your holiday much less stressful for yourself, so all you'll recall are the good memories of the trip itself! Ensure your vacation gets off on the right foot by turning your car over to us here at Pacific Airport Parking.
We will take the anxiety of finding an available parking space from you so you can focus on preparing for your flight! Check the rates for your trip today.
