The Long Haul

So Les Vacances are approached by the hour, and many of us have already booked flights for a far getaway .. Some lucky ones have already planned overseas getaways, either to the East or across the Atlantic. 

The only one thing standing between you and your dream vacation is The Long Haul Flight.

Flying for more than six hours has no health risks whatsoever, but staying put in a chair for more than six hours has some potentially serious effects on your wellbeing.

Here are a few tips to help you get prepared and stay healthy on an aircraft.

Dehydration is probably one of the most common effects long haul flights have on most of us. Dehydration could lead to headaches, and body aches. Make sure you stay hydrated before, during and after the flight. And when I say hydrated I mean water. Try to avoid sugary or any alcoholic drinks, as they help with dehydration. What everyone should know is that, inflight meals are usually packed with salt which can leave you dehydrated, to avoid that, just make sure you order a bottle of water to keep next to you at all times.

Sleep deprivation is a serious health condition. Most people like to catch up on their sleep during the flight, but I definitely don’t recommend you do that. Try to get some rest before your flight. You can also get some rest on the plane to avoid any jetlags, but just make sure you plan your sleep time depending on the local time of your destination on arrival. Here’s a tip I’d like to share with you. Sleeping on the plane is hard, and I think everyone knows that. Always choose the back or exit seats as they are the most comfortable, all you’ll need at that point is your sleeping gear, which consists of, a neck pillow, noise canceling earphones or ear plugs and eye masks.

Move during the flight. You don’t have to wear your seat belt at all times. Stretching your torso is very important to help the circulation going and avoid blood stagnation that predispose to DVT ( Blood Clot in the Veins of the leg ). You should definitely consider walking around the plane or at least doing some flight stretches every couple of hours. People with previous history of DVT, should bring along their compression socks and consult their doctor if they need any extra medication.

Wear comfortable clothes. When you’re on a plane for God knows how long, you wanna feel comfortable in what you’re wearing. As we all know flight can be a bit cold so always consider bringing a jacket or a hoodie with you on the plane. Comfortable non tight shoes are a must. Your feet tend to swell with prolonged sitting times. 

If you’re already on medication, bring them along with you, and make sure you pack your prescription just for security reasons.

Use the restroom. I know how planes restrooms are, but you need to use it every few hours. Consider it a reason to get up and move. Going to the bathroom helps you get rid of all the toxins and leaves you with an empty bladder, which will help you be more relaxed throughout the flight.

Flying is amazing and long haul flights can be a pleasant experience if you are well prepared..

Have a great flight and stay safe !!