Airplanes Can Be Comfortable

Are you taking a long distance flight, maybe across country or across the world? Airlines try to pack as many people as possible in a plane and they compromise some of your comfort.

Following these steps can ensure that your flight experience is as comfortable as possible.

Reserve a good seat
Within the same class and fare, some of the seats are far better than others. Consider an aisle or exit row seat for legroom, or a window if you want to sleep.

Bring something to entertain yourself.
Usually, movies don't start for some time, and the built-in music selection is poor quality. There are airlines that offer audio Video on demand, which are TV screen in front of your seat which lets you choose what you want to watch, play or listen too. Also bring your own headphones. The headphones for purchase on the plane are quite poor quality and bad for you hearing. The best are the noise-canceling headphones and in-ear headphones but even standard headphones or ear buds are better than nothing.

Minimize your carry-on luggage.
A small bag or backpack is fine for the plane. Bring a toothbrush and anything else that isn't liquid or gel, which you need to help freshen up before landing after your long flight. WetOnes are the best invention ever for freshening up, a self-contained bath. Avoid using the potable water in the washroom to brush your teeth. Instead use the provided bottle drinking water.

Think about bringing your own food.
Food on board some airplanes is poor quality. No taste and is bad for your health. Contact your airline in advance to find out if they still offer free meals and potentially request a special meal. Many airlines offer Vegetarian, Kosher, Halal and other "special meals" if you order two days in advance. And because the airlines have to specially prepare your meal, it is usually better than the standard food fare. If your airline doesn't offer a free meal, be sure to bring your own or buy something at the airport. Seedless grapes and trail mix are excellent carry on food.

Move around
This is especially important on longer flights, to prevent your body from aching due to low circulation. Some airlines offer in-seat exercises that you can do. The long over-night flight is an excellent time to take a stroll up and down the aisle a few times.

Opt to sit near the back of the airplane, if you don't mind the extra noise produced by the engines. Some planes have a large area behind the last row of seats in the back of the aircraft that give you plenty of space to stretch.

Dry air on the plane.
The air on a plane is drier than the desert air, so drink plenty of water, and yes, you can bring eye drops for your dry eyes.

Foot elevator
The seats are way to long for short people and you either hurt your back slouching or suffering from leg cramps because your feet are dangling in mid air. Your carry-on luggage can work to prop your feet on.

Bring a blow-up neck pillow
You'll need the neck pillow if you will be sleeping. It supports your head for a more pleasant sleep. Use the blanket also to rap yourself in so your arms done flop out and hit others next to you. This sounds strange but it works for those long transoceanic crossings.

Times zones
If you are flying across several times zones, consider using "No Jet Lag" pills. Many experienced travelers use these to neutralize your internal time clock. They are helpful to get you into the new time zone without feeling the effects of jet lag.

Airsick
If you tend to get airsick, drink a small bottle of Ginger ale before boarding and carry a newspaper in your backpack. The ginger will help calm your stomach and so will the smell of the newspaper.

Fear of flying
If you have a fear of flying, ask your doctor for benzodiazepine. This will lower your anxiety levels.

Warning
Do not take sleeping pills that will knock you out! In case of an emergency, the flight crew needs to be able to wake you quickly.