Get stressed while flying? Here are 8 easy flight tips

You’ve boarded the plane, stowed your luggage, and buckled in for your flight. Then the jet jitters hit you: the cramped seats, the turbulence, the unruly passengers — and you remember why flying can be an absolute nightmare.

Luckily, we’ve clocked up more than enough airmiles to know how to make any trip more relaxing. So, sit back, relax and we hope you enjoy your AirHelp survival tips for long plane flights.

1. Check for disruptions

Nothing’s worse than going to the airport to find out that your flight’s been delayed and you’re stuck checking the departure screen every 2 minutes. n. By the time you’ve chugged 3 coffees, and sampled all the perfumes at the duty free store, you’re probably pretty annoyed. Lack of information about flight disruptions was the top passenger frustration of last year and is a major concern for anyone who wants to fly.

You could try to get ahead of flight delays or cancellations, using your airline’s webpage or an online flight tracker. But, even better, sign up for AirHelp+, which automatically lets you know if your flight’s been delayed. Plus, our live chat option will give you tips on what to do next and what your rights are as a passenger. You might even find you’re owed compensation. A 3+ hour delay is a bit more bearable if you know you’re getting €600 in compensation for the wait!

Remember, if your flight is heavily delayed, it’s the airline’s responsibility to provide food and accommodation. And, in case of a cancellation, they have to give you an alternative flight to your destination.

2. Pack light

Packing light is a must if you want to enjoy stress-free flying. Unfortunately, unless you’re the kind of person who can go a week with just a toothbrush, two sets of underwear, and your phone charger, it’s easier said than done. Although you might want to pack back-ups of everything, in the end, it’s just extra weight.

So instead of risking overweight luggage fines or hurting yourself by hoisting your carry-on into the overhead compartment, pare it down to the essentials.

A good rule of thumb is to carry on only the things that you absolutely know you can’t replace at your destination, such as medicines, electronics, or important documents. After all, you don’t REALLY need 20 pairs of socks — bring just enough, and if you happen to run out, buy an extra pair!

3. Bring snacks, seriously

Unless you were raised on cardboard, airplane food isn’t great, or, often on short-haul flights, just outright not available. So bringing your own snacks and drinks can make a huge difference if you want to stay energized and keep hunger — and boredom — at bay. Did you know you don’t even have to hide food from the gate attendants? It’s actually really easy to bring food onto the plane with you — just make sure it’s in sealed packages. Packed sandwiches, granola bars, or dried fruit are all great options though you may get asked not to open nuts if there are passengers with severe allergies on board.

As for drinks, you’ll likely need to purchase them at the airport to abide by the liquid limit rule. Just whatever you do, don’t let yourself turn into Hulk when he’s hangry!

4. Bring entertainment too

If 8 hours watching yet more re-runs of Friends isn't your idea of fun, flying can feel like time you’re never getting back. Even though long haul flights with great onboard entertainment systems are a chance to catch up on the latest release movies, it doesn’t hurt to have some back-up entertainment.

Sure, books, video games, and magazines are awesome, but don’t be afraid to be more creative: Adult coloring books, a language-learning app, Sudoku, or travel board games can all make your flight more bearable.

5. Freshen up

Here’s a great survival tip for long plane flights: freshen up on board!

Long haul flights can leave you feeling pretty gross and the recycled air dehydrates your skin, so carry a few travel-sized essentials for a mid-flight refresh:

• Face wipes

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Lip balm

• Lotion or moisturizer

• Hand sanitizer

• Brush or comb

6. Get rest on the plane

Sleeping on planes is the super power we all wish we had. Most regular humans struggle to sleep on flights, but the ones who manage it are almost always using one or all of the following: a neck pillow, eye mask, or noise-canceling headphones. Getting in some Zzzz is such a great way of getting through a long flight, bring literally anything that will help even if it’s your childhood blankie.

And we know you know but, however bored you get, avoid caffeine, too much alcohol and heavy meals right before trying to sleep. Save them for when you land!

7. Have easy access to essentials

Nothing’s worse than needing something mid-flight and realizing you buried it deep in the overhead bin! Especially after you’ve already disturbed sleeping strangers in your row twice to go to the bathroom.

So make sure you keep your passport, boarding pass, wallet, phone, and any necessary medications on hand, preferably in a small bag under your seat to keep things organized. Your seatmates will never know the favor you just did them.

8. Ask for help when you need it

Lastly, if you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed-out, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Is the passenger in front reclining their seat too far? Is the flight making you dizzy? Are you just plain thirsty because the stale air has mummified your internal organs?

Just let the flight crew know — that’s what they’re there for so they’ll be happy to help and make your flight more comfortable. Just stay calm and be polite and you’ll soon be their favorite passenger.

Flying is easy if you’re prepared

With these survival tips for long flights, flying doesn’t have to be a nightmare. By planning ahead, packing wisely, and bringing the essentials, you can make your trip much smoother and less stressful.

Try the flight tips on your next trip and your journey might even be just a teensy bit okay!

Want a fast €100 next time your flight’s delayed or canceled? AirHelp+ membership gets you fast payouts, 100% of up to €600 compensation and lounge access when your flight’s disrupted. Explore More.

Header image by Vlada Karpovich on Pexels.