PLAN AHEAD TO MAKE TIME FLY
The increase in extreme longhaul flights has thankfully coincided with advances in in-flight entertainment, connectivity and personal electronic devices. But 16 hours contained in a small tube comes with some unique health (and sanity) challenges. SEATING: Try to get a seat assignment early. Everyone wants the window or aisle, so the longer you wait, the more chance they’ll fill up. It’s also worth checking to see if your fare allows for mileage upgrade awards. They may come with an additional fee, but you may think it’s worth paying when compared with the prospect of sitting in a middle seat for 10+ hours.
HEALTH: It’s hard to stay hydrated at cabin pressure, so try to keep an additional bottle of water at your seat, and take a cup anytime the flight attendants come by. To mitigate the risk of deep vein thrombosis, experts advise you stretch and walk several times during a flight. Follow instructions closely for any sleeping medications you plan to take.
ENTERTAINMENT: Most airlines now have a good selection of recently released movies and popular TV series on in-seat screens, so you may enjoy the opportunity to catch up on your viewing. Binge watchers like to load up a series on their personal devices. It’s also a great opportunity to bring that long book that’s been gathering dust on your coffee table.
KEEPING A CHARGE: Bring a backup battery or portable charger for your laptop or tablet. Your device won’t do you any good if it’s out of juice. You can usually check your airline’s website to see if there are power outlets at each seat. (But don’t bet your big presentation on it, because there could always be a change of aircraft or a broken outlet.)