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Long-haul travel can be really fun — lengthy flights give you plenty of time to catch up on your favorite TV shows, watch new movies and enjoy Champagne for days, while also providing plenty of opportunities to meet new people and explore faraway, exotic destinations.
1. Change Into Your PJs
Anytime I’m flying overnight — or on a leg during the day that’s longer than nine hours — I always bring a change of clothes to wear during the flight. While I’d hate to be seen strolling through the terminal in sweats, I sure do love curling up in them on the plane! Wearing your pajamas or other comfortable clothes feels more cozy, letting you sleep more comfortably and, hopefully, longer.
Before landing, put your old outfit back on. It will have been hanging or folded up the whole time so it’ll look fresh and make you feel a bit fresher too.
I find that this little custom even helps my body clock adjust, as I’m maintaining part of my daily routine. It’s a small detail, but an important one.
2. Drink Plenty of Water
There are so many studies out about jet lag and while they seem to recommend 101 different things, the one they all agree on is getting enough hydration.
As you may have gathered by now, there are few people on earth who love Champagne more than I do. That said, it really isn’t the best thing for you on an airplane — alcohol and caffeine will dry you out even faster.
Start drinking water early on in the flight and drink it often — I try to drink one liter for every two hours of flight. Follow it up with a healthy swig of juice in the morning and you’ll be on the right track.
Water will keep your body hydrated and help to minimize the effects of jet lag, while the vitamins in the juice will give your immune system the boost it needs after spending more than nine hours with 300 of your coughing, sneezing, spewing best friends in a cabin full of recycled air.
3. Make Sure You’re Moisturized
I’m a huge fan of technology, modern medicine and pretty much anything that makes life a little better. A trip to your local pharmacy before you travel can make your life so much easier.
First of all, lotions and potions — under 3 oz/100 ml, of course! — are a must. Just like water helps your body stay hydrated, using a good moisturizer is also very important. If you forget to stop by the pharmacy, head to the duty free shops in the airport instead.
I find that Kiehl’s, Ahava and Biotherm all have fantastic product lines and I use them regularly to combat the effects of travel on my skin. Kiehl’s has an eye-depuffer that works wonders and I absolutely love Ahava’s day cream.
The other half of the pharmaceutical equation would of course be a sleep aid. A mild one can help you conk out on the plane and re-adjust to your destination’s time zone before you get there. When taken responsibly — in other words, not chased by half a bottle of wine — this can be a huge help to ensure you’re arriving at your destination ready to tackle the day ahead.
4. Pack Like a Pro
Make sure you bring the right toys with you to make your journey as effortless as possible. Whether it’s the pajamas we talked about earlier, your favorite neck pillow, a well-loaded Kindle or iPad or even just a bag of your favorite chocolates, a well-packed carry-on can make or break a trip.
I usually make a list and double-check it before I leave — that one missing item that you discover you forgot halfway across the Atlantic can really throw a wrench in your flight.
I always pack my fleece-covered hot water bottle, my iPad loaded with a few movies in case the in-flight entertainment is sub par, a few dark chocolate sea salt caramels (Anthon Berg chocolates are my favorite!), a well-stocked toiletry kit and a fresh pair of intimates should things go awry and my luggage fails to arrive with me. Figure out what it is you need to stay happy and healthy during your voyage, pack it up and off you go!
5. Splurge on Something Nice at the Airport
This is probably the most important part: Take as much stress out of the process as possible, even if it costs you a few extra bucks. A day pass to an airline lounge during a long layover can be very affordable and is a great way to relax and retreat from the crowds for a bit. My Amex Platinum Card is probably the most valuable credit card in my wallet since it gives me access to airport lounges along the way as well as free Global Entry to facilitate things on arrival — a must for any serious long-haul traveler!
An upgrade to an extra-legroom seat or a higher class of service can often be economical and the cost-to-benefit ratio as it relates to lowering your stress level while increasing your comfort can be drastic. Even something as simple as stopping at the airport spa can do wonders for getting you up and running again.
Bottom Line
Do whatever it takes to stay comfortable during your trip and chances are you’ll arrive feeling refreshed, energized and ready to take on your destination!
Source: thepointsguy.com