Long haul flights sound exciting – you’re heading somewhere far, and it feels like the start of a big adventure. But there were a few things I wish I had known ahead of time – before my first long flight that would have made the experience much smoother.
If you’re getting ready for your first long flight, these long haul flight tips will help you be prepared and stay more comfortable along the way.
And if you’re still in the planning stage, you may also want to read my 5 Airport Tips That Can Save You Time, Stress, and Missed Flights for what to expect before you even get to your gate.
Tight Seating (Hard-to-Reach Bags)
In economy, it’s surprising how cramped the seating feels – especially once everyone settles in on a full flight (some sections in economy have more legroom as an upgrade).
On my first long haul flight, the tight seating it made it hard to access my personal item bag under the seat. I had packed a duffel-style bag that was pretty full, and trying to pull it out from under the seat without disturbing the passengers next to me was awkward (and frustrating on the 11-hour flight).
This also ties into how you pack your carry-on (mine was overpacked, lesson learned) – especially how you pack toiletries and essentials. How to pack toiletries for carry-on travel
You can review current TSA liquids rules on the official TSA website before your trip.
My New “System” for Long Flights: Make a “Seat Access Bag”
Now for long flights I pack a small bag inside my carry-on and take it out before takeoff so everything I need is within reach.
In my seat access bag I keep things like:
- Noise-canceling earbuds or headphones
- Phone + charger
- Snacks
- Lip balm / moisturizer
- Any medications I’ll need during the flight
- Glasses
- Hand-sanitizer/disinfecting wipes
Also for my personal item bag, I now use a travel backpack, weekender bag or voyager bag (depending on the trip) with more pockets – to help keep everything organized.
These are simple changes, but they make a huge difference on a long flight.
Pro tip: Use one or two small packing cubes in your personal item bag.
The Plane Gets Cold
On a long flight, cabin temperatures can drop – especially on overnight flights. Luckily, we packed travel blankets, even though they took up extra space in our bags.
What Helps
- Keep something warm easily accessible
- Pack a travel blanket or sweatshirt
- Wear layers (sweater, wrap, or scarf)
- Bring socks or compression socks
Night Flights Make Things Harder to Find
On a night flight, after the meal service, cabin lights dim – good for sleeping, but not for finding things – especially trying to dig under the seat in the dark.
What Helps
This is where the seat access bag really helps – everything you need is right next to you, no searching required.
Stay Hydrated on Long Flights
Airplane cabins are extremely dry, and on a long flight, you really feel it.
What Helps
- Bring a refillable water bottle (fill it after security)
- Use lip balm and moisturizer
- Drink water regularly – even if you’re not thirsty
A Plan for Sleep on Long Flights
On overnight flights you’d think it would be easy to get some sleep – but between noise, seat position, and interruptions, it’s not always that easy. Here are a few tips to try to make a “cocoon” so you can sleep.
What Helps
- Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs
- Neck pillow
- Eye mask (or hoodie sweatshirt)
Even if you don’t fully sleep, resting still helps.
Bring Snacks on Long Flights
Airlines do provide meals, but the timing doesn’t always match when you’re hungry.
What Helps
- Pack snacks you actually enjoy
- Great for long gaps between meals
Pro tip: Many airlines allow you to request special meals in advance on their website that will be served during the meal service.
Comfort Matters More than Style
A long flight is not the time for restrictive outfits.
What Helps
- Loose, breathable clothing
- Layers
- Compression socks for circulation
You can’t rely on Wi-Fi
Not all flights have reliable Wi-Fi – and it’s not always free.
What Helps
Download everything ahead of time:
- Movies/shows
- Podcasts
- Music
- Boarding passes
Pro tip: Keep digital copies of your passport and ID along with your itinerary information on your phone or Google drive (can share with your travel group or family).
Make a Freshen-Up Kit for Long Flights
After several hours on a plane, it’s nice to have in your personal item bag a separate pouch or cosmetics bag with a few things to freshen up before you land.
Pack:
- Toothbrush & toothpaste (or disposable travel toothbrushes)
- Face wipes
- Travel-size deodorant
- Solid moisturizer or stick balm
- Hair tie or mini brush
Pro tip: About an hour before landing, freshen up in the restroom before lines get long.
International Long Haul Flight Tips
One thing that can catch you off guard is what happens after you land back in the U.S. especially if you have another flight connection.
You may need to:
- Go through customs and immigration
- Reclaim and recheck luggage
- Go through security again if you have a connecting flight
What Helps
Using the Mobile Passport Control app can save time by letting you skip paper forms and move through faster.
A Little Planning Goes a Long Way
Looking back, none of these things were major – but together, they made the long flight feel a little more challenging than I was expecting.
With a few simple long haul flight tips – and a system for packing and comfort – long flights will be much more comfortable.
If it’s within your budget, upgrading to premium economy or a seat with extra legroom can definitely make a difference – especially on overnight flights. But upgrades aren’t always available, and with airfare prices these days, many travelers are flying economy.
If you’re planning a trip, see also my airport tips guide and carry-on packing tips to help be prepared before your travel day.
