“The most common mistake people make on long-haul flights is not dressing properly.”

But long-haul flights are a necessary reality if you’re gonna wanna travel far.

Airports and security lines definitely generate traveler anxiety, especially with new guidelines and ever-changing restrictions.

Looking up from the ground, a plane flies between high-rise buildings against a cloudy sky

An easy approach is to understand whatnotto do.

Avoid heavy and restrictive clothing and instead choose soft fabrics and stretchy garments for peak comfort and coziness.

Wearing layers is helpful for the shifting cabin temperatures.

Person in white pants with hand in pocket, standing against a plain background

And dont forget to invest in somecompression socks for health and comfortduring long-haul flights.

I always get compliments on my flight fit matching top and bottom neutral sweats.

Or, I recommend bringing a comfortable flight fit to change into once you reach a cruising altitude.

Interior of an airplane showing seat with curtain, overhead restroom sign, and seatback pocket with brochures

Loosen the laces so you could slip on and off to get comfortable, Brogan advised.

At the end of the flight, youll probably find that your feet have swollen.

This is normal and another reason to choose comfortable footwear.

Woman looking out the window of an airplane, reflecting on travel

If youre looking for a more peaceful time, consider choosing a seat that isnt in a high-traffic area.

Sit far away and use the walk to stretch.

Watching The Clock

As the saying goes, A watched pot never boils.

Woman sitting with suitcase in airport, looking distressed, possibly due to travel issues

Similarly, dont look at the where are we map.

Youll land soon enough!

Check the upgrade options when you check in for your flight online.

Passenger asleep in an airplane seat with a neck pillow, signaling comfort during travel

When you do that, you will see what seat options are available.

Often on the day of the flight, upgrades will be drastically reduced in cost.

That little upgrade will definitely make a 14-hour flight more enjoyable.

Woman in headphones looks out airplane window, contemplating, seated in cabin

Additionally, a good sleep mask can make a huge difference.

Finally, I recommend finding a good neck pillow before flying.

Get the ones that attach to the headrest, Jacobs said.

Man in suit handing over passport and boarding pass to airport staff at check-in counter

Its a total game changer.

Your entertainment doesnt have to involve a screen either.

Bring a book or magazine or do crossword puzzles for entertainment.

Two travelers rest against each other sleeping in an airport waiting area, surrounded by luggage

You should always have something to do on a long-haul flight, Dengler said.

At times, that may be sleeping, but I recommend always having access to entertainment.

You dont want to end up stuck in a middle seat on a long flight.

Two women sharing a screen on a phone while seated on a plane, one with headphones

Extra legroom is key.

Select a window seat if you plan on sleeping, Dengler said.

Pay extra for an exit-row seat if you will be more comfortable with extra legroom.

Flight attendant serving passengers on a plane, with a food cart

It really comes down to what time the flight is and whether or not you plan to sleep.

Figure out which seat position you prefer before booking a long flight.

Window or aisle you really need to decide what is more important to you, Jacobs said.

Person relaxing in an airplane seat, stretching arms with closed eyes, in-flight entertainment screen visible

I prefer the aisle any day.

Is it a red-eye flight where the goal will be to sleep?

Or is it during the day when you will need to stay occupied?

have a go at sleep when its nighttime at your destination, rather than your origin.

Do not take a nap once you land at your destination, Roth said.

Power through so that you sync up your body with the local clock.

You will adapt much better to the new time zone.

Dont put too much pressure on yourself, however.

Its not theend of the worldif you cant quickly adjust.

A long flight is a long time to make small talk.

Youll have plenty of time together at the airport and then your destination.

Plus, no need to have your colleagues see or hear you sleeping, Jacobs said.

Sit separately its not rude.

They will appreciate it too.

I always bring my own snacks on long-haul flights, and I have never regretted it, Dengler said.

Get up to walk around and stretch every few hours, Brogan said.

Your legs will thank you once you arrive!

Dont forget to stay hydrated and take any vitamins and medications that are part of your daily routine.