Flying usually means something good. You’re going on vacation, starting a new job, seeing family or friends… Generally speaking, it’s usually for good reasons. In any case, that doesn’t take away from the fact that spending 10 hours on a plane can be very uncomfortable. Crew members and pilots of airlines like Level, which often fly very long routes like Barcelona-Buenos Aires (just over 13 hours of flight time) or Barcelona-Santiago de Chile (more than 14 hours of flight time), offer some recommendations to make the flight more bearable. One of the things they usually advise against, and one that almost all travelers do, is not to drink alcohol. Alcoholic beverages are detrimental to the body’s functioning, especially given the pressure on airplanes.
The most recommended thing is to drink water, a mild herbal tea, or even light snacks to help you feel good
So, let’s start with one of the most inadvisable actions. When we talk about long flights connecting Europe to America, for example, people often eat with a glass of wine. This can be a big mistake because it not only affects our digestion, but the body, being under so much pressure, reacts to it in different ways, not always good for our system. The most recommended thing is to drink water, a mild herbal tea, or even light snacks to help you feel good during the flight.
Another important piece of advice from those who know this trade is to avoid eating too large meals, due to the “stress” we put our bodies under. It’s advisable to eat meals that are easy to digest, so our body doesn’t have to work as hard to properly distribute the food. Eating too heavy prevents you from getting a good night’s sleep, because it makes it harder to digest, and it also makes it harder to fall asleep.
Different airlines now offer many different types of food for different needs
Nowadays, it’s worth mentioning that there are many options on flights. Different airlines now offer many different types of food for different needs. Vegetarian and vegan food, special food for children and babies, kosher, halal, gluten-free, low-salt, etc. Therefore, it’s important to check with the airline when booking. It’s very important to do this in advance, as only the food previously ordered from the caterer will be available on board.
Hydration is key on long flights. The humidity level in an airplane cabin is around 15% or less, which is quite low. This causes dry skin, eyes, and nose. Therefore, it’s important to stay constantly hydrated. In fact, experts advise people to carry their own empty bottle in their carry-on luggage and refill it at the water dispensers. Free water dispensers are usually available in all airport terminals after security.
Bring snacks with you so you won’t end up eating junk food at the airport and avoid a bad flight
As for food, the best option is to always bring snacks from home. Several hours will pass from the time you leave home until the flight service arrives. That’s why it’s best to be well prepared, as hunger can strike at any moment. This way, we won’t end up eating junk food at the airport and avoid a bad flight. It’s also possible that you don’t like the food offered on the plane, so having a choice isn’t a bad idea. Fruit, nuts, protein bars, or cookies are some good options.
Finally, regarding other tips for enjoying a long trip, do some exercise before traveling. This helps release tension and help you rest better on the plane. Also, wear compression stockings to improve circulation in your legs, use a sleep mask, and pack light to be as relaxed as possible.
