Long flight essentials: How to prepare for your study abroad journey
Use our helpful guide to make your long haul flight simple and comfortable - whether you’re a first time flyer or seasoned traveller!
If you’ve never experienced a long haul flight before - or whether you’re a seasoned traveller - preparation is key to ensure that your transit process and arrival in your destination goes smoothly.
As you get ready to embark on your study abroad journey, you’ll want to make sure that you have everything you need to not only travel comfortably, but also to rest assured in the knowledge that you’ll have everything you need to quickly settle in at your destination.
What is a long haul flight?
I’m travelling on a long flight for the first time. What should I know?
The most important things you’ll want to check you have with you are:
A valid ID and passport
Copies of your flight itinerary
Your boarding pass (you can either sign in at an airport, or online)
Valid visa(s) for your intended destination(s) if necessary
Proof of your accommodation at your destination
How the check-in process works
TIP: Remember to check both travel advisories and COVID-19 health regulations in your intended travel destination to ensure you can comply with any laws or applicable guidelines.
Tips for long flights
Buy your ticket as early as possible
If you haven’t yet purchased your travel tickets, the best advice possible is to do so early.
Seat prices become more expensive towards the airline’s intended departure date, and purchasing a ticket early can enable you to not only save money but further select a comfortable seat.
Generally, the first and last passenger row in Economy provides the greatest legroom. If you’re willing to accept the responsibilities that come with sitting in an emergency exit row, you may be able to find more legroom there as well. However, not all airlines allow this row to be pre-booked.
Bring comfortable clothing, pillows, and earplugs
Unfortunately, few people find international flights truly comfortable. Ensuring that you are wearing loose, flexible, and warm clothing can ensure your flight will be as relaxing as possible.
Additionally, you may wish to invest in a travel pillow or neck support, as well as ear muffs, ear plugs, or noise-cancelling headphones to reduce sound in the cabin space while you travel.
Bring your own snacks, if possible
While some airlines pride themselves on the cuisine served during flight, airline food does not have a reputation for being appetising. Additionally, in-flight meals can be pricey; meaning you’ll want to keep a close eye on your travel budget.
If your airline allows it, you may prefer to bring your own food and water aboard for snacking while you travel. Be sure to accommodate breakfast, lunch, and dinner while you travel.
It is not recommended to drink tap water from the tap in an aircraft’s bathroom, and for that reason you may want to bring water aboard or ask the cabin crew for bottled water.
Hydrate and bring moisturiser
As aircraft cabins are pressurised and recycle air, you may find yourself feeling dehydrated or unwell during a long-haul flight.
To prevent this, be sure to drink plenty of water - and if you find your skin becomes irritated, you may additionally wish to bring moisture to ease your discomfort while travelling.
Do light exercise while in the air
Sitting for prolonged periods during an international flight can cause you to feel still and uncomfortable, and it’s generally recommended that you try to do light exercise while you are in flight.
Exercises to perform include simply walking up and down the passenger aisle when permitted, rotating your ankles, extending your calf, and trying to stand for periods when possible.
Taking your next step as an international student?
Explore our resources and find guides on visa and travel updates, and read our easy-to-follow guide on how to secure international student accommodation!
