Long-Haul Travel Hacks: How I Survived My Flight to the US Without Falling Apart

Recently, I did a long-haul flight from Europe to the US, and let’s just say: my budget was not business-class level. It was pure economy, middle-of-the-plane, “hope my neck survives this” energy.

Here are the long travel hacks that actually helped me feel almost human on arrival — and that I’ll definitely repeat next time.

1. My Long-Haul Carry-On Essentials

Instead of throwing random things into my bag, I now keep a small “long flight kit” that always comes with me.

In my personal item (backpack/tote), I pack:

• Hand sanitizer & wipes – I always clean my seat and anything I touch

• Big scarf or light sweater – for when the plane turns into a fridge

• Compression socks – not cute, but your legs will thank you

• Refillable water bottle – fill it after security

• Lip balm + hand cream – the air is so dry

• Face mist or small moisturizer – especially after sleeping

• USB cable + powerbank – not all planes have working chargers

• Earplugs and/or noise-cancelling headphones

• Eye mask – effective if they won't dim the lights

I keep these in a small pouch so I’m not digging around in the dark.

2. Outfit Formula: “Almost Pajamas, Not Quite”

The key is soft layers:

• Comfortable leggings or loose joggers

• Soft t-shirt or long-sleeve top

• Hoodie or cardigan

• Sneakers or slip-on shoes

• Warm socks in your bag to change into

Ask yourself: Could I sleep in this?
If the answer is no, it’s probably not a great long-flight outfit.

3. Skincare for Long Flights (Simple Only)

No 10-step skincare in the airplane bathroom. I keep it basic:

Before the flight (at home or airport):

1. Cleanse face

2. Apply hydrating serum or simple moisturizer

3. Apply SPF if it’s daytime

4. Lip balm

During the flight:

• Reapply lip balm if you feel that you need it

• If your skin feels dry, use a bit of moisturizer or a hydrating mist on top (nothing strong or irritating)

Before landing:

• Wipe face with a gentle micellar wipe

• Moisturizer again

• SPF if it's day

• If you want an extra touch-up: A tiny bit of concealer, brow gel, mascara

The goal is comfortable and not irritated, not full-glam. Also: drink water. Annoying but necessary. It's good to get up and walk often, so bathroom breaks can help.

4. Food & Snacks: Don’t Rely Only on Plane Meals

Plane food is… unpredictable. If I feel unsure about the airline I am flying with, I try to bring:

• A sandwich or wrap from home or the airport

• Nuts or trail mix

• A chocolate bar or small treat

• Maybe some crackers or rice cakes

I avoid super salty snacks (swelling) and anything too smelly.

Would be great to get a charcuterie board though!

If you’re prone to feeling bad after heavy foods, eat lighter and smaller portions. Long flights + heavy food + no movement = not a vibe.

5. Movement & Stretching (Even If You’re Shy)

I know it feels awkward, but your body will be less angry if you:

• Get up every few hours to walk to the bathroom (A great reason to stay hydrated)

• Do small ankle circles and calf raises while standing

• Stretch your neck and shoulders in your seat

Even a tiny bit of movement helps with stiffness and swelling. You don’t have to do a whole yoga flow in the aisle (please don’t), just a few simple things.

6. Entertainment Plan: Assume Wi-Fi Will Be Trash

I always pretend there will be no Wi-Fi and no good movies, even if there are.

Before flying, I:

• Download a few episodes of a series on my phone

• Download a playlist or podcast

• Bring a Kindle or one physical book

• Download offline games or language apps if I feel productive (I usually don't)

That way, if the screens don’t work or you don’t like the options, you’re not stuck staring at the seat in front of you.

7. Sleep Hacks

No magic, but these made a difference:

• Choose a window seat if you want to sleep (wall to lean on)

• Use an eye mask and earplugs to block as much of the chaos as possible

• Put your neck pillow in front of your neck, not behind — sometimes it feels better that way

• Don’t overdo the caffeine and sugar right before you want to sleep

I never get perfect sleep on planes, but with these, I get some sleep, which is already a win.

Final Thought

Long-haul travel in economy will never feel fully luxurious, but with a few smart moves, it can feel Almost Fancy: not glamorous, but prepared, comfortable enough, and a tiny bit more put together than chaos.

Enjoy your trip!