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 a person yet who hasn’t wanted to go, but 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 Virgin Australia, 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 your saying, but still it is so many hours in the air. I don’t know if I can be in 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 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 if you are going to splurge you should. The design of first class seating, business and premium economy make 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 or the Cook Islands. Spend a night or two exploring these islands before arriving in Australia
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 meal to help me get a restful sleep . I have had clients who have been prescribed something stronger to ease their nerves during the flight. They said it worked like a charm.
Creature comforts. Wear clothing the moves with you and doesn’t bind. If you have the option to slip into a pajamas or lounge wear do so. Take off your shoes and put some slippers on. This will help your body realize it’s time to rest.
A neck pillow. I love mine. Even though the headrest are now designed to keep you from falling on your neighbor, I like the comfort and support of a pillow.
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 when you first get on your plane even if it is evening time. 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 and then take my 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 do some stretches. 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 to good to miss!