Flying overseas can be a big hassle. The flights are long, space is tight, and there just isn't much to do on the plane. Here are a few things to keep in mind for a long trip.
- Make sure you pack 1 or 2 full changes of clothes in your carry-on items. Airlines do lose luggage, and you don't want to be without clean clothes for an extended period of time.
- Get up and stretch at least every couple of hours. You really need to do this, otherwise there is the possibility of getting leg cramps or DVT (deep-vein thrombosis).
- Keep hydrated. The plane cabin is kept very dry, so you need to drink more water than you would normally. Yes, this means you will have to use the restroom more often, but not doing so increases your chances for the aforementioned leg cramps and DVT.
- Bring headphones. Most (if not all) overseas flights show an in-flight movie. Gone are the days when you had to use the special air based headphones, you can now use your own. It will give you some entertainment and will save you $3-5 dollars
- Bring a book. This is a great way to pass the time. Even if you normally can't finish a book because you fall asleep, sleeping isn't necessarily a bad way to pass time on a plane either.
- Know the exchange rate for currency and bring a little of both. If you decide to buy drinks or a pair of headphones on the plane, they sometimes price them at the same number in either currency ($5 and 5 euros). What this means is you can save some money if you use the right currency when you purchase from them.
Some airlines are better than others. In the cases where we have an exception experience (good or bad), we will post it here.