Almost everyone has sat through an uncomfortable flight at some point. The good news is that a few small habits make a real difference, whether you fly constantly for work or only once a year. Here are the ones worth remembering.
Choose Your Seat
Business class is the comfortable option, but you don’t have to pay for it to sit well. In economy, the seats by the emergency exits and the bulkhead rows usually have noticeably more legroom — worth selecting at check-in, or booking ahead if the airline charges for it. If you are prone to motion sickness, aim for a seat over the wing, in the middle of the aircraft, where the movement is least noticeable.
Dress for Comfort
On a plane, comfort beats style. Cabins often run cold, so bring a warm layer — a hoodie or sweater — even in summer. Loose clothing and a pair of soft socks or slippers to swap into once you are seated make a long flight far more bearable.
Stay Hydrated and Keep Moving
Cabin air is very dry, so drink water regularly and go easy on coffee, tea and alcohol, which all add to dehydration. On long flights, get up every couple of hours to walk the aisle and stretch — it keeps you from stiffening up and helps the circulation in your legs.
Pack a Small Comfort Kit
For any overnight or long-haul flight, a sleep mask and earplugs (or noise-cancelling headphones) are the best things in your bag: they block the cabin light and noise and let you actually rest. Charge your phone, tablet or e-reader fully before you board, and consider a power bank — not every seat has a working socket.
If You Feel Queasy
Motion sickness is worst at the front and back of the aircraft, which sway more than the middle. If you are sensitive, book a seat over the wing, keep your eyes on a fixed point or the horizon, and have motion-sickness tablets ready before you fly rather than after the feeling starts.
FAQ
What should I drink on a flight?
Mostly water. The dry cabin air dehydrates you faster than usual, and caffeine and alcohol make it worse, so save those for after you land.
Which seat is most comfortable in economy?
Exit-row and bulkhead seats for legroom; a seat over the wing if you are prone to motion sickness. Aisle seats make it easier to get up and move on long flights.
