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well as details of the amenities available. Planning to take your laptop? The site will tell you if some coach seats in your plane have power outlets (and where they are located). Also you can find out if there are seat back video screens, food availability and more. Most importantly, it can help you identify seats that may be less desirable due to proximity to the restrooms, limited legroom or in a few cases, lack of recline capabilities. A window seat is often the first choice. You can rest against the wall and no one will be climbing over you to access the aisle. Many savvy travelers keep an eye on available seats even after booking. Do one last seat check 24 hours before departure, when exit rows and other previously held seats become available. Finally, arrive early at the airport to try and ask about the availability of exit rows.

Comfort items

In addition to the usual book or or laptop, a few other carefully selected items can make the difference between relative misery and a fairly easy long-haul journey. My personal top five comfort items for long distance air travel include my own noise-canceling headphones, a tooth brush, a supply of healthy snacks, an over-sized sweater that can double as a blanket, and finally, a pair of warm & fuzzy socks. (They are much more comfortable than shoes).

Ground Transportation

When you arrive you will, of course, need to proceed through immigration. I have found that once through this process, it's a welcome bonus to have a driver or organized ground transportation waiting to greet you, help you with your luggage and see you safely to your hotel. This is another thing that is best planned ahead. The cost of well-reviewed, pre-arranged transportation is not much higher than a local taxi or other service secured on site. And the peace of mind is invaluable, particularly after a long flight and arriving in an unfamiliar destination.

Long-haul flights can be tiring and difficult. But with some good research, organization and advance planning, you can arrive well prepared and ready to make the most of your international experience.

Learn more about this author, Laurie Cirivello.
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