How to Survive a Long-Haul Flight in Economy

A long flight in economy may never feel short, but it can feel more manageable. A travel writer and a former flight attendant share the small habits they rely on, from seat choice to planning the hours.

Spending twelve hours in an economy seat can be quite uncomfortable. But a Condé Nast Traveler writer and a former flight attendant have a few habits that may make it easier. Here are five to try.

1. Take the Aisle

For both Condé Nast Traveler writer Jessica Sulima and former flight attendant Alona Vasylieva, the aisle seat is the most convenient for stretching and bathroom runs, because you won’t need to climb over anyone.

Sulima avoids the exit row after finding it too cold when she was once seated there, due to the reduced insulation near the doors. For Vasylieva, though, it’s become an old safety habit to be seated in an aisle seat near the exit row.

2. Keep Your Essentials Close

This is especially useful if getting in and out of your seat could inconvenience your neighbors. Pack a small pouch with things like earplugs, snacks and cables, and keep it within reach so you don’t need to dig for them in the overhead bin.

3. Move Often

Dr. Sanjiv Lakhanpal of the Center for Vein Restoration recommends taking walking breaks mid-flight when it’s safe, ideally every one to two hours for flights that last longer than four hours. He also suggests movement exercises while seated, like ankle circles and heel raises.

4. Plan Your Hours

Sulima plans out her time in the air by breaks the flight into activity blocks, such as listening to music during takeoff, enjoying a meal, watching a movie, then sleeping. She also avoids checking the flight tracker too often. In Vasylieva’s case, she sets her watch to the destination's time as soon as she sits down.

5. Drink Water, Eat Light

It is common to feel bloated during long flights, so Sulima recommends sticking to water instead of fizzy drinks like soda. Vasylieva brings her own bottled water and skips the heavy late meal.

These simple habits may help in making a long-haul flight feel shorter and more comfortable. So pick what works for you, and let the clock tick.