Long-haul flights can either be a luxurious, stress-free dream or a full-on endurance test that makes you question all your life choices. What’s the difference? Knowing the right tricks.

Forget the basic “stay hydrated” and “wear comfy clothes” advice (though yes these are crucial so please do them), we’re going deep with the underrated, next-level hacks to get you off that plane feeling refreshed, fabulous, and somewhat sane.

1. Skip the boarding rush

   • Unless you’re in business class or snagging overhead space is a blood sport, boarding early just means more time sitting in a tiny seat. Instead, hang back, stretch, and board last. By the way, if you’re concerned about overhead space a lot of airlines will actually encourage you to gate check your bag – this will save you $$ and stress.

      

     Pro Tip: Use apps like ExpertFlyer Seat Alerts to get notified if a better seat opens up before departure.

    

2. The “Burrito Wrap” Blanket Tick

   • Airplane blankets are thin and useless. Instead of layering it on top of you, wrap it around your torso like a burrito under your seatbelt. This locks in warmth, lets you stay buckled while sleeping (so flight attendants don’t wake you up), and looks effortlessly chic.

      

     Extra Pro Tip: Bring a pashmina or oversized scarf—it doubles as a blanket, pillow, head cover, or fashion moment when you land

3. The Art of the In-Flight Skincare Glow Up

   • Long haul flights wreak havoc on your skin and dry you out. Add in lack of sleep and we’re not looking so glowy the next morning. Try doing your skincare prior to getting on the flight – this puts you in the mindset of getting ready for bed. Use a thick moisturizer like Summer Friday’s Jet Lag Mask.

   • Do a face mask – try not to do a full sheet mask though so you don’t scare everyone (it’s me, I’m that person)

   • In the “morning” – clean your face and use a glowy serum, some caffeine eye cream, and again moisturizer

      

4. Hydration without the bloat

   • Water is great, but if you’re bloating up like a human balloon mid-flight, switch it up –

     • Ask for hot water with lemon – keeps digestion in check & hydrates

     • Bring your own electrolyte packets – Game-changer for long-haul flights and gives you an extra boost of hydration when you need it most. Your skin will also thank you.

     • Bring your own tea bag and ask for hot water

5. So No to Jet Lag

   • The real MVPs don’t just survive jet lag, they beat it before it starts:

     Set your watch (and mind) to destination time as soon as you board. Start acting like it’s the local time –

     • Strategic caffeine & meal timing – Eat when your destination eats, sleep when they sleep.

     • Pop on blue-light-blocking glasses if you need to sleep mid-flight (your brain will thank you).

     • Wake up early the day of your flight so you’re tired when you get on. The next morning get as much sunlight in your eyes as possible to help your body adapt to the time change.

Fly Smart, Arrive Fresh, Repeat.

Flying long-haul doesn’t have to be a test of endurance or make you completely miserable, it can actually be a chill, borderline luxurious experience if you play your cards right. Master these underrated tips, and you’ll be that person who steps off the plane looking effortlessly refreshed while everyone else stumbles out like a zombie apocalypse survivor.