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How to have a Comfortable Flight

    International educators often take long flights. Typically at the beginning and end of contracts, but also during long holidays. Arriving at your destination well rested is a benefit that no one would argue John Graham wrote a great little article explaining his strategy for long haul flights. His strategy breaks down to sleeping uninterrupted. He describes down to the smallest detail what to do to insure your get a good nights sleep.

Mr. Graham breaks down the strategy int four parts, Quiet, Darkness, Comfort, and Warmth. For Quiet, he recommends buying ear plugs or noise cancelling headphones. I'd stick with ear plugs unless you have a strong constitution as noise cancelling headphones are known to promote air sickness. Avoiding the light is a well known strategy for getting a good night's sleep no matter what circumstance you're in. Try investing a little extra money on a good blindfold as Graham explains that the free cheap versions on the plane are not very effective. We've all used neck pillows, but he recommends using it backwards so it can catch your head if it flops forward. Warmth is also an issue. If you are like my wife you will not be able to sleep in a freezing cabin. I actually prefer the cold, but many do not. Use a blanket if your cold. As a side note, warmth also promotes air sickness. Stay away from the sunlight. Finding the right seat is critical if you are tall. Do your homework ahead of time and get a good seat. If you forget the request a good seat when you check in. Most clerks will be accommodating.

Graham states that he is a long term long haul frequent flyer. My experience aligns well with his and if you are planning on taking a long trip following his advice can go a long way to maybe not enjoying, but at least having a restful flight.