A flight from JFK to Heathrow airport in London is about eight (million billion) hours… Here’s seven tips you need to know to survive the experience:
- Stay Hydrated
When you go through security, you can’t have too many liquids, but you can get around this rule by bringing an empty reusable bottle. Once you get past security, simply fill it up at a free water fountain station. Trust me on this one; you do not want to be waiting for the cart to come around to give you a few sips of water each time. The air in the cabin is very dry, so your throat and skin will thank you.
- Moisturizer for Days
Like I said, the air on that plane is like the Sahara desert, and you’re going to be sitting there for hours anyway, so show your skin some extra love. Just because we’re flying economy doesn’t mean we don’t like to be pampered, right ladies? I prefer a light, oil-free moisturizer for my face, and something unscented for my hands and body. And don’t forget lip balm! Chapped lips are the worst and the dry air on the plane won’t help. Avoid anything too heavily scented that could disturb other passengers. Don’t be that girl.
- Cleanse Your Face
I don’t know about you, but whenever I travel, I just feel icky. And in those moments all I want to do is wash my face. And while that isn’t necessarily possible, you can always cleanse on-the-go with wipes or micellar water (under 3oz) and cotton rounds. Either way, a quick swipe along your face and you’ll feel like a new person.
- Cleanse Your Seat
Planes are gross, plain and simple. (Heh, get it? I digress.) Hand sanitizer to the rescue! Not only can you sanitize your hands (duh!), but put some on a tissue and give your arm rest and TV remote a little wipe down. The last thing you want is to get off the plane excited to start your adventure, only to get sick because of a germ-y plane bathroom.
- Bring A Snack
Yes, usually on long flights there will be a meal served. On my flight back from London we got a snack, dinner, and tea. But sometimes it’s still good to have a healthy snack in your bag. You never know when the dinner might be gross, or your flight could be delayed, etc.. The point is you never know! Something with protein is always a good option, like almonds, for example.
- Layers
Is the plane going to be boiling or freezing? This would make a terrible game show, but when you’re flying you want to be prepared for either. The worst is trying to nap but being too cold to sleep or being so warm that you feel sick. Layers, layers, layers! Wear shoes with socks that way you can take them off and get comfy. Plus, the more you wear on your body while you travel, the less you have to pack in your suitcase! My favorite item to wear when I travel is my plaid blanket scarf. Its super cute, and can act as a blanket or a pillow in a pinch.
- Noise Canceling Headphones are your Best Friends.
I know, they’re expensive, and you already spent literally all your cash on studying abroad. But if you can swing it, these babies could be the difference between a serene classical music-induced nap, and listening to a plane engine and a screeching infant for hours. Don’t forget to have enough music playable offline to get you through the flight.
If you forget something, don’t worry, most long flights will give you a little kit. This convenient little goody bag includes earplugs, a blanket and pillow, a toothbrush and toothpaste, a sleep mask, and headphones. (I’m not 100% sure if every airline does this, but I got one both times through Delta and Virgin Atlantic) Check with your airline! Also, the flight attendants are there to help! If you need something, just ask. The worst they could say is no.
Bon Voyage, Collegiettes! XOXO