As planes begin to have greater fuel capacity, you'll find that international flights are getting longer and longer, with the longest flight taking 19 hours. If you'll be on a long flight, it's helpful to have some comfort tips for international airplane flights to help you enjoy the trip as much as possible. While you may not be able to stop your neighbor from taking up the arm rest or talking through the flight, you can do your best to ensure a comfortable international flight.
The most comfortable way to fly internationally is to fly in first or business class. These seats are larger and have more cushioning. In many airplanes, they even allow you to lie completely flat to ensure better sleeping. If you can't afford the high cost of a ticket, try using your miles for upgrading. It's usually difficult to book free flights with your miles, so upgrades make good use of them.
Even if you can't fly in first or business class, you can still make better choices of seats to add to your comfort. The seats next to the emergency exits have more leg room. If you know that you'll want to sleep for the flight, you may want to try to get a window seat, but if you can't sleep, the aisle seat may be a better choice because it allows you to easily get up and walk around.
Sitting in the same position for hours isn't just uncomfortable--it's dangerous. It could cause blood clots in your legs. Throughout the flight, it's a good idea to get up, walk around and stretch.
Flying can dehydrate you, and your food and drink choices can make a big difference in your comfort level. If you prefer not to eat a big meal, sign up for the strict vegetarian meal, which will likely be fruit or a salad. Salty snacks can make you dehydrated, but they can also settle your stomach if it's upset by motion. The best beverage choice is water, which will keep you hydrated. Stay away from alcohol and sodas.
If you want to ensure that you sleep through the flight, you may want to consider taking a sleep aid. You can purchase over-the-counter medicine that can help you to sleep, or you can consider natural aids, such as a tea made from valerian root.
