When it comes to long flights everyone has their own definition. To some a 4 hour flight is long. This article is geared to a much longer travel day. I’m talking in excess for 12 hours of travel time. As I write this I am in the middle of a 31 hour trip from the East Coast of the United States to Asia. Each direction consists of two 3 hour flights plus a 16-hour flight with all the associated ground time.
I know even some seasoned travelers dread these journeys, but here are 4 steps to ease the pain. (Dare I say even make the journey fun?) While I usually will seek out economical ways to get things done, these definitely fall into the good value column.
Better seating
Improve your seat. Aim for a window or aisle seat according to your preference. If stuck with a middle seat attempt to change at the airport. Even better, change your class of travel. While business and first class may be out of the reach for those without points to get there, premium economy is a good option. Premium economy often offers more legroom and comfort. Sometimes other amenities are included. Check reviews of various airlines premium economy offerings. Some of the Asian and European carriers are way ahead in this department. Also, the cost is often very reasonable. On this trip, I chose premium economy for the long flights. The extra cost works out to $10/hour. ($300 round trip) It is certainly worth it.
Taking the stress out of the airport layover
Consider paying for lounge access on the longer ground times. Sites including loungebuddy.com and sleepinginairports.net offer insight about what’s available. Some airlines also offer day passes to their lounges. Research the ratings and amenities for the lounge. A hot shower, decent food, and a quiet comfortable chair can make a big difference mid-trip. The cost of the lounge pass can be a great value compared to purchasing food, drink, and showers in the terminal.
From the airport to the hotel
Take the hassle out of arrival with a pre-arranged car for transportation. It is sometimes worth it to take the challenge out of transit from the airport to your hotel. Late night or early morning arrival often limit transportations options. On a particular trip to Bangkok, I took this a step further with a greeter right at the jet bridge. It was almost midnight by the time I had arrived from my long day. The service took me through VIP customs saving quite a bit of time. Luggage assistance was provided and I was in a town car and on my way to my nice hotel bed in no time. It is a splurge I would repeat.
Time for a break?
Finally, consider breaking the trip up a bit. There’s nothing fun about coming off a long travel day and going right to work. It is possible at times to break up a trip with a short (10-12 hour) layover in a city on the way. Sometimes this can be accomplished at little to no cost airfare wise. If this is your strategy remember this may not be the time for a super luxe hotel. You will probably only be there long enough to get some sleep and a shower. If this short break is during daytime hours research your airport hotel options. Some of these hotels now have “day rates”. More airport hotels offer flexible check-in times allowing you to begin your 24-hour stay at any time of day.
After having tried these I can say it’s been money well spent.
Are you a long distance traveler? Share your favorite tips and tricks to make the travel day easier.