14 tips to make your long-haul flights a better experience
International flights can leave you stressed, drained and sore, but there are a few easy steps to ensure a seamless experience, writes David Slotnick
Travelling can be incredibly fun – even if it’s for work – but if you’re going somewhere far away, you have to get through a long flight (or several) before you can begin your trip.
A crucial set that many people forget, but that can make or break a red-eye flight: an eye-mask and earplugs
Whether you’re an experienced traveller, or someone about to take your first international flight, here are a few tips that can help you stay comfortable and have a seamless experience.
1. Check which airline is actually operating your flight – not the one you booked with
While you may have bought your ticket from a specific airline, or seen that listed if you bought the ticket through a third-party website, there’s a chance you're actually flying a different airline altogether.
Airlines operate partnerships and alliances that mean that you may end up booking a flight on an airline’s partner without realising it. That can lead you to go to the wrong airport terminal – not a great way to start your trip.
For example, even if you book a flight to Paris sold by Delta, you may actually end up flying partner airline Air France, both of which fly from different terminals at New York’s JFK.
To avoid confusion, be sure to check your itinerary before heading to the airport. There might be small text under the selling airline that says “operated by”: that’s the airline that you’re actually flying.
2. Try to avoid checking in a bag – just bring a carry-on, but make sure to check the size
Checking a bag in can lead to all kinds of hassle, especially if you have a connection or your flight gets changed due to weather. Plus, airlines often charge extra fees for checked-in bags, even on international flights.
Instead, try and fit everything into a carry-on suitcase. Lay out all of your clothes for the trip, and try to cut the pile down to something that can fit in the carry-on. You can also roll your clothes, which helps you fit more and prevents wrinkles.