Little things that make long flights easier for me
32M. I fly fairly often for work, occasionally for fun. After reading a few threads about long flights, I thought I’d share a few things that have helped me, along with some useful suggestions I picked up in the comments.
One idea I liked was keeping everything you need at your seat in a small pouch: headphones, eye mask, cable, lip balm and a snack. Take it out before your bag goes overhead and you won’t have to keep rummaging through the overhead bin. I also use a chest pocket for my phone. It helps once the tray table is down and my trouser pockets become almost impossible to reach.
The slightly unusual thing that’s helped me is a light resistance band. A coworker who sits at a desk all day suggested looping one around my thighs while sitting. Mine is rated at about 10 lb, and I don’t deliberately push outward against it. I’ve tried it on flights and find it easier to maintain a comfortable sitting position, with less aching in my lower back.
For in-flight entertainment, I plug my display glasses into my phone, which gives me a bigger screen to watch on without bringing my iPad. On my last flight to New Zealand, I watched some Stranger Things, then put on The Conjuring and Obsession. Turns out watching horror surrounded by people is weirdly satisfying. I’m scared, but somehow feel completely safe lol.
Another suggestion was keeping fresh underwear, socks and a T-shirt together somewhere accessible, along with a toothbrush. Especially useful when you land in the morning and can’t check into your hotel for another few hours. It’s easy to pack for the destination and forget about those hours in between.
What little things have made your long flights more comfortable? Especially anything you only figured out after a few trips.