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Seven tips for when you're travelling long-haul

It's going to be a busy weekend as people getaway for Easter - and airports will be no exception....
Newstalk
Newstalk

10.53 13 Apr 2017


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Seven tips for when you&#3...

Seven tips for when you're travelling long-haul

Newstalk
Newstalk

10.53 13 Apr 2017


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It's going to be a busy weekend as people getaway for Easter - and airports will be no exception.

Flying can be stressful enough for some, but long-haul flying seems to illicit fear in others - especially if it's their first time.

But we have seven tips to help you relax and get the most out of that long journey.

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Get comfortable

Wearing comfortable, loose clothing will help you keep your cool. But just in case you get too cool, bring an extra layer or two.

Make sure you don't wear shoes that are too tight, as your feet can swell at high altitudes.

Don't worry about what other people are thinking - they'll just wish they were as comfortable as you.

Interior option for new A320 Family aircraft | Image: Airbus

Suigh síos

There is no magic formula for sitting on a plane, it depends what you prefer - or sometimes what's available!

But there are a few simple rules you can try and abide by.

If you want more leg room, go for the exit row (but be prepared to have to move your items more often into the overhead bin).

If you like to move about the plane (or have quick access to the bathroom) grab an aisle seat.

If you sit near bulkheads, you will not have a seat in front of you (but you also won't have much space for your carry on).

Image: gategourmet.com

"Coffee?"

Water - bring a big bottle of water (But only buy it after you go through security).

Humidity on flights can drop to below 20% and your body could suffer unless your replenish it with water.

Coffee and alcohol will dehydrate you more - but by all means go for it!

Just be sure to drink a couple of glasses of water as well.

"Beef or chicken?"

You will get fed on long-haul flights but it may not be when you are expecting.

If you are travelling across time zones, you could end up with breakfast at dinner time and roast beef first thing in the morning.

Bringing a few snacks like cereal bars, nuts or dried fruit in your carry on will stave off that hunger.

The "New Forward Stairs" option in the A380 jetliner | Image: Airbus

Move it!

It might be tempting to sit and watch films for 15 hours, but it's probably not the best idea.

Stretching your legs helps to keep the circulation flowing and avoid discomfort.

You can even do exercises a in your seat, just by moving your ankles and lifting your knees.

But it is recommended that you walk around the cabin every two hours or so.

Compression socks can also help increase blood flow and reduce swelling.

A watched pot never boils

Yes it can be boring sometimes, but don't just sit there and count the minutes!

It can sometimes help to break down long flights into shorter, goal-orientated segments.

For example, if you are on that 15-hour flight, you could put two of those hours away for take-off and landing, leaving you with 13.

Then you have a few meals - say two hours - and a good snooze for at least three hours.

A couple of films, another four hours, as well as some of those exercises and walkarounds.

Image: Airbus

Upgrade you say?

You really should treat yourself, you know...

Either splash out on a class or two above, or try your luck with trying to get a free upgrade.

More space, nicer food and a even flat bed can make all the difference.

Travel site Momondo has compiled a handy list of ways to get a free flight upgrade.

Everything from the time of your flight to a smile could help.

And bon voyage: At the risk of sounding cliché, enjoy your flight!


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