What Not to Do When Preparing for a Long-Haul Flight: Health Tips

What Not to Do When Preparing for a Long-Haul Flight: Health Tips

Before you start daydreaming about your destination, let’s chat about something a bit less glamorous but super important: how to keep yourself healthy and comfy during that marathon in the sky.

Long-haul flights can be a real doozy on your body. We’re talking hours upon hours of sitting in a metal tube hurtling through the air, crossing time zones like they’re nothing. It’s no wonder our bodies sometimes freak out a little! But fear not, my travel-savvy friend. With the right prep, you can arrive at your destination feeling like a million bucks (or at least not like a jet-lagged zombie).

Pre-Flight No-Nos: What Not to Do Before You Fly

Below is a list of what not to do before your flight:

Don’t Play Fast and Loose with Your Sleep

First, don’t treat the night before your flight like it’s New Year’s Eve. I get it, the temptation to stay up late finishing last-minute packing or binge-watching your favorite show is real. But trust me, future you will not be impressed.

And please, for the love of all things travel, don’t leave your packing to the last minute. Nothing screams “I’m going to have a terrible flight” quite like a stressed-out, sleep-deprived you rushing to the airport.

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Don’t Let Dehydration Creep Up on You

Listen up, because this is crucial: do not, I repeat, do not start your journey dehydrated. Your body is already going to be dealing with the super-dry air in the plane, so give it a fighting chance.

In the days leading up to your flight, make water your new best friend. And on flight day? Keep that H2O flowing. But here’s a pro tip: ease up on the coffee and cocktails. I know, I know, that pre-flight latte or “airport beer” might be tradition, but caffeine and alcohol are dehydration double whammies. They’ll also mess with your sleep on the plane. If you must indulge, at least match each coffee or alcoholic drink with a glass of water.

Don’t Treat Your Pre-Flight Meal Like Your Last Supper

Okay, foodie friends, listen up. I know that airport restaurant might be calling your name, but loading up on a heavy, greasy meal before your flight is a recipe for discomfort.

Here’s why: digesting a big, fatty meal while sitting still for hours can lead to bloating, indigestion, and general ickiness. Not to mention, it can make it harder to sleep on the plane.

Instead, opt for a light, nutritious meal before your flight. Think salads, fruits, lean proteins – foods that will give you energy without weighing you down. Your stomach (and your seatmate) will thank you.

Packing Pitfalls: What Not to Leave Behind

Below are important things you should not leave behind while packing:

Don’t Play Russian Roulette with Your Meds

This one’s a biggie. Don’t assume you can skimp on your medications just because you’re only going away for a week. Always pack more than you think you’ll need. Why? Flights get delayed, trips get extended, and the last thing you want is to run out of essential meds in a foreign country.

And here’s another golden rule: always, always pack your medications in your carry-on. Checked bags can go AWOL, and you don’t want your health to go with them.

Don’t Prioritize Fashion Over Comfort

I get it, you want to look fly when you fly. But trust me, your skin-tight jeans or restrictive business suit will feel like a torture device six hours into your flight.

Opt for loose, comfortable clothing instead. Think layers—planes can go from sauna to icebox in no time. Your best bets are a light, breathable base layer, a cozy sweater or jacket, and some comfy pants or leggings. And don’t forget comfy socks!

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Don’t Underestimate the Power of Comfort Items

Sure, the airline provides a pillow and blanket. But let’s be real – they’re not exactly the height of luxury. Don’t make the mistake of thinking you can do without your personal comfort items.

A good-quality neck pillow can be the difference between arriving refreshed and arriving with a crick in your neck that lasts your entire vacation. Throw in an eye mask to block out light and some earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to create your own little oasis of calm.

And here’s a game-changer: compression socks. They might not be the sexiest accessory, but they can help prevent swelling and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis on long flights. Fashion be damned – your circulatory system will thank you!

What Not to Do While Waiting for Your Flight

There are a few airport pitfalls you’ll want to avoid if you’re aiming to start your long-haul journey on the right foot. From turning into a human statue at your gate to treating the food court like an all-you-can-eat buffet, let’s explore what NOT to do while waiting for your flight.

Don’t Be a Couch Potato During Layovers

After racing through the airport like you’re auditioning for “The Amazing Race,” that comfy seat at the gate looks mighty inviting. But resist the urge to become one with the chair! Remember, you’re about to spend hours sitting on the plane, so now’s not the time to get a head start on your sedentary marathon.

Instead, use this time to get your blood pumping. Take a stroll around the terminal, window shop at the duty-free stores, or if you’re feeling really ambitious, find a quiet corner and do some stretches or yoga poses. Trust me, your body will thank you when you’re not feeling like a pretzel halfway through your flight.

Pro tip: Many airports now have walking paths or even gyms. Check if your airport has these facilities and take advantage of them!

Don’t Treat the Airport Like a Food Court Free-for-All

I see you eyeing that giant cinnamon roll. And that greasy burger. And those salty snacks. I know, airport food can be tempting, especially when you’re stressed or bored. But loading up on high-sodium, high-fat foods before a long flight is like inviting bloating and discomfort to be your seatmates.

Instead, look for healthier options. Many airports now offer salads, fresh fruits, or lean protein options. Opt for nuts, yogurt, or a simple sandwich if you’re stuck in a junk food jungle. Your digestive system will be much happier at 30,000 feet.

What Not to Do Once You’re Airborne

Let’s discuss what NOT to do once you’re in the air. Trust me, your body (and your fellow passengers) will thank you.

Don’t Become One with Your Seat

You’ve made it onto the plane, found your seat, and you’re ready to settle in for the long haul. But whatever you do, don’t plan on staying glued to that seat for the entire flight!

Sitting still for long periods increases your risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a fancy way of saying “potentially dangerous blood clots.” Yikes! So, make it a point to get up and move around every couple of hours. Walk the aisle, do some stretches by the galley, or even just wiggle your toes and rotate your ankles while seated.

Don’t Ignore the Germ Factory Around You

Airplanes aren’t exactly bastions of cleanliness. That tray table you’re about to eat off of? It’s probably seen more germs than a petri dish in a science lab.

Don’t make the mistake of ignoring hygiene during your flight. Pack some sanitizing wipes and give your seating area a once-over when you board. And please wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitizer, especially before eating. Your immune system will high-five you later.

Don’t Forget You’re in a Flying Desert

Airplane cabins are notoriously dry – we’re talking Sahara Desert levels here. Don’t make the rookie mistake of forgetting to hydrate.

Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, as tempting as that free wine might be. Instead, make water your drink of choice. Aim to sip water regularly throughout the flight. Yes, this might mean more trips to the tiny airplane bathroom, but it’s worth it to avoid arriving at your destination feeling like a dried-out sponge.

Read: Airport Hacks: Breezing through Security and Layovers

Don’t Play Time Zone Roulette with Your Sleep

It’s tempting to catch some z’s whenever you can on a long flight, but don’t fall into the trap of sleeping at the wrong times. This can make jet lag hit you like a ton of bricks.

Instead, try to sleep when it’s nighttime at your destination. If it’s daytime there, do your best to stay awake. Use the in-flight entertainment, read a book, or strike up a conversation with your seatmate (if they’re willing, of course – don’t be that overly chatty passenger!).

Don’t Let Your Skin Suffer

Remember that flying desert we talked about? Well, it’s not just your insides that get dry. Your skin and eyes can suffer, too. Don’t neglect them during your flight.

Bring a good moisturizer and apply it regularly. Eye drops can be a lifesaver for dry, irritated eyes. And don’t forget your lips – a good lip balm is worth its weight in gold on a long flight.

What to Avoid After You Land

Let’s discuss how to end your long-haul journey on a high note and start your trip right.

Don’t Dive Straight into Bed (If It’s Daytime)

You’ve made it! You’re at your destination, and that hotel bed is calling your name. But if it’s daytime at your destination, resist the urge to faceplant into the pillows.

One of the best ways to beat jet lag is to push through and stay awake until the local bedtime. Go for a walk, grab a light meal, or do some gentle exercise. Your body clock will adjust much faster.

Don’t Forget to Stretch it Out

After being cramped up in a plane seat for hours, your body needs some TLC. Don’t skip out on some good stretches or light exercise after you land.

Simple yoga poses, a short walk, or even touching your toes can help get your blood flowing and ease stiffness. Your muscles will thank you, and you’ll feel more energized to start your trip.

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Special Situations: Don’t Overlook These Important Considerations

Don’t Ignore Pre-Existing Health Conditions

If you have any ongoing health issues, don’t make the mistake of thinking they won’t affect your travel. Always consult with your doctor before a long flight, especially if you have conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or respiratory issues.

Your doctor might have specific recommendations for you, like wearing compression stockings, adjusting medication schedules, or taking extra precautions during the flight.

Don’t Skip Travel Insurance

I know, I know. Travel insurance seems like one of those things you pay for and never use. But trust me, when you need it, you’ll be so glad you have it.

Don’t make the mistake of traveling without insurance, especially for long trips or international travel. It can cover you for flight cancellations, lost luggage, and most importantly, unexpected medical issues. Think of it as your safety net – hopefully you won’t need it, but you’ll sleep better knowing it’s there.

And there you have it, savvy travelers! You’re now armed with knowledge about what not to do when preparing for and during a long-haul flight. Remember, the goal isn’t just to survive your journey, but to arrive feeling good and ready to enjoy your destination.