How to Make the Most of Long, International Flights

I've flown internationally numerous times. My least favorite part of going to exotic locations such as India have been the flights that span more than a day of travel time. Though I doubt I will ever enjoy flight times that last more than 20 hours and have multiple layovers, over the years I have learned how to make the most of long international flights so that I can now face them without dread. Read on for tips that can help make those boring international flights less of a grind.

Dress Fashionably but Comfortably on Long International Flights

One of the best ways to increase comfort in long international flights is to get bumped up to first class. The odds of that happening are admittedly slim, but it does happen. Those who do get bumped up to first class are never wearing sweats or tacky jeans. They look like they belong in first class.

Although most business attire is less than comfortable and comfort is important on those long flights, you can dress fashionably but comfortably. Here are some ways to do that:

*Wear slacks that aren't overly tight in the waist.

* Instead of fitted, button-up shirts, opt for a sweater or tunic that is loose, but looks nice.

*Wear slip on shoes with modest heels. Slip on shoes have the added benefit of being easier to remove and put back on while going through security.

*Trouser socks look nice and are more comfortable than nylons.

Avoid Caffeinated Drinks on Long International Flights

Caffeinated drinks lead to dehydration, which can be a problem on long flights. Though you may want a cup of coffee with breakfast, other times, when offered drinks in flight, opt for water or juice. Have an empty water bottle that you can refill after going through security so you'll always have plenty of water with you.

Bring Work or Projects on Long International Flights

One of the hardest aspects of long flights is the feeling that a lot of time is wasted. Not only is a lot of time spent in flight, there are often long layovers, which make the trip even more of a grind. I find that I mind long flights less if I feel like I accomplish things during them.

Download your email before getting on the flight, and even if you don't have an in flight Internet connection you can work on catching up on reading and replying to email during your long flight. Once you again have an Internet connection, you can send all the emails you wrote in flight. Make sure your laptop is fully charged before boarding the plane and recharge it during layovers.

Bring books or other reports you need to read and use long flights to catch up on your reading. You can also bring needlework or other small projects that you never seem to have time to work on with you and feel a sense of accomplishment as you make progress with them in flight.

Related Content by Rebecca Livermore:

A Guide for Getting Around Delhi, India

Potsdam: A Convenient Day Trip from Berlin, Germany

Cooking School in Chiang Mai, Thailand