2 Meals, 2 Movies and a Nap!

How to survive a long flight.

The long flight is the biggest obstacle or objection I often face when planning an Australia vacation package.

I have never met anyone who hasn’t wanted to go, yet the first thing they say to me is “the flight is too long”. Granted, it is longer than a shot to the Caribbean, but what it lacks in convenience it makes up for in luxury and service. Truly, airlines such as Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Fiji Airways have brought an art to crossing the oceans. After flying domestic for so long, you will think the economy on these flights is “first class.”

I know, I know you’re saying, but still, there are so many hours in the air. I don’t know if I can be on a plane that long. My answer is you need to change your mindset and think as we do, “2 Meals, 2 Movies and a Nap,” and voila, you are there! Seriously, if you break it down into chunks, the flight is quite manageable, and the rewards of your Australia or any long-haul vacation make it well worth the effort.

Here are several of my tips on surviving a flight overseas.

• Fly First Class! Yes, this is one time when you should splurge. The design of first class seating, business, and premium economy makes it well worth the upgrade.
  Can’t fly first class, no worries. Try some of these other tips and enjoy the freedom of travel.
• Break the flight up. There are several options where you can stop over on your way to Australia, such as Hawaii, Fiji, Tahiti, or the Cook Islands. Spend a night or two exploring these islands before arriving in Australia or even New Zealand.
• Drink your Water. Staying hydrated while flying is key.
• Consult with a physician. Do you have anxiety? Can’t sleep. Consult with your doctor before flying. I personally take Melatonin when flying after my dinner to help me get a restful sleep. I have had clients who have been prescribed something more substantial to ease their nerves during the flight. They said it worked like a charm.
• Creature comforts. Wear clothing that moves with you and doesn’t bind. If you have the option to slip into pajamas or lounge wear, do so. Take off your shoes and put on some slippers. This will help your body realize it’s time to rest.
• A neck pillow. I love mine. Even though the headrests are now designed to keep you from falling on your neighbor, I like the comfort and support of a pillow. And bonus, since I am short, I’ve found a foot sling that works great for extending my legs in those economy seats.
• Adapt to the time zone. For example, if you have a 15-hour flight and it will be morning when you arrive at your destination, do not go to sleep as soon as you board, even if it is evening. You want to work your way back from your arrival. So, in this example, I would want to stay up until I am about 10 hours from my destination, then get to sleep.
• Stretch. Get up and move about the cabin when you can. These longer flights often have an area on board where passengers can walk, grab a drink, and do some stretches—a great spot for making new friends.

These are just several of the tricks that have worked for me. I have to say I have been very blessed and experience minimal jet lag when I travel. Find what works best for you because the experience that awaits is too good to miss!

Updated January 2026 to reflect current long-haul travel tips.