by Roland McShane

Created on: December 02, 2009   Last Updated: December 23, 2009

After all the time required to get to the airport, check in and make sure you carry your bags through security checks before departure, then negotiate through border control and customs upon arrival, the last thing a long-distance traveler needs is to suffer through a multiple-hour flight. Long-distance flights require special planning to make the experience as comfortable as possible. Here are some easy tips for making long-distance flights more comfortable.

If not already purchased, take advantage of using frequent flyer miles to upgrade to business/first class. The more space and more frequent service offered in business/first class seating are well worth the upgrade.

Selecting seats when purchasing or checking in make sure to ask about the coach seats which offer extra leg room. Exit aisles or bulkhead seats offer a bit more comfort than regular coach seating. However, beware of choosing exit aisle seats on wider body airplanes - those configured with three rows of seats and two aisles - because the exit aisle becomes the pathway to the restroom. Avoid selecting seats in the middle of a row. Sitting in on an aisle seat or window seat provide a little more space.

Traveling with baggage is getting more expensive and the ripple effects of increased charges are being felt in the cabin. Trying to avoid fees by carrying more in the cabin makes the process of getting on and off the plane a real stress factor. Avoid the crush of carrying too many bags.  Try to place the bags to do carry onboard in the overhead bin to have more leg room.

Though airlines are not as generous as they have been in the past with pillows and blankets, traveling with a neck pillow, eye covers and ear plugs can help you sleep on long flights. Having an MP3 player to listen to a selection of soothing music is effective at blocking the noise from the plane making the flight more comfortable. Taking your own earphones instead of using the ones sold or provided on the plane will also increase your comfort.

In preparing for and while in flight, make sure to drink plenty of liquids but limit alcohol and carbonated beverages. The controlled environment, the high-sodium foods served on planes and the effect of alcohol on the body will dehydrate travelers quickly. Ensuring that you are properly hydrated will make the flight more comfortable. When needing to go to the restroom, take a little extra time to stand or walk to improve circulation.

Long flights are rarely fun, but taking the recommendations above can help make your next long flight more comfortable.

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