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Book your tickets early -

The earlier you book, the better your chances of scoring your favorite seat. So don't hesitate—book your tickets as early as possible.

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Sit in the back -

As most people will scramble to be at the front, you've got a far better chance of ending up with an empty seat or two beside you at the back. Before your flight, keep an eye out to see if there are any empty rows you can claim last minute.

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Sleep -

It's not always easy when you're in a crowded plane, but get some sleep, even if it’s a short nap. For extra comfort, get a blanket and pillow.

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Use air miles to upgrade -

If you have air miles, make sure to use them on an upgrade. You will get much more comfort and arrive at your destination rested after many hours of traveling.

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Splurge on premium economy -

Sadly, we don't always have the miles, but one step up is premium economy. It might be slightly more expensive, but the benefits of priority check-in, extra legroom, and comfortable seats makes it worth it.

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Try for a free upgrade -

This might be worth a go if you arrive early at the check-in. However, the odds of scoring a last-minute upgrade are better if you have elite status with the airline.

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Prepare for jet lag -

There are a couple of things you can do to mitigate jet lag. One tip is to spend the days before your flight adjusting your sleep patterns to match your destination. Another piece of advice is to book your flight so that it arrives during the day.

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Check in early -

The last thing you need before a long-haul flight is to panic your way through a busy airport, or, in the worst case, miss your flight. It's better to just wait a bit longer at the airport before boarding.

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Dress right -

Keep your outfit as comfortable as possible. Remember to bring layers for when it gets cold during the flight. A cardigan or sweatshirt is always good to have on hand.

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Bring your own pillow -

A small pillow is a must-have carry-on item for long-distance travelers. You can find them at almost every airport, and it's a small price to pay for not destroying your neck.

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De-stress before you arrive -

Before you embark on your journey, do some things to relax yourself. This could be having a nice breakfast, going to the gym, or reading a book.

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Block out sounds with noise-canceling headphones -

If you can't afford noise-canceling headphones, go for high-quality earplugs instead. It's a great way to block out the airplane noise and loud passengers.

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Don't overdo the carry-ons -

You need to bring more for a long-haul flight than you would for a short one, but it's not a good idea to overpack your carry-ons. Bring the essentials so they're always within arm's reach.

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Buckle your seat belt over your blanket -

In case of turbulence, the seat belt light will turn on, and flight attendants may come to check that everyone is buckled up. If you're buckled beneath your blanket where they can't see it, they will wake you up to check.

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Adjust your watch -

It's important to prepare yourself for the time zone of where you're heading. When you get on the plane, change your watch to the local time of your destination, then alter your routine accordingly.

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Bring an eye mask -

An eye mask is extremely useful if you're flying during the day, or if you want to get some sleep before the cabin lights are dimmed.

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Try to relax -

Whether it's meditation, listening to some calming music, or doing some breathing exercises, these are all techniques that will help you sleep more easily and put your mind at ease.

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Befriend the crew -

Make an active effort to be nice. Not only will you up your chances of preferential treatment, but you'll also be doing something kind for the people taking care of you up there.

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Travel blankets are a must -

Remember that it has to fit in your carry-on, so don't bring anything too thick. Make sure it's enough to keep you warm when the plane's air-conditioning is on.

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Stay healthy -

Sitting down for too long isn't good for your health. Fight off deep-vein thrombosis by regularly stretching and walking around the cabin.

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Charge your devices -

The last thing you need is your device running out of battery one hour into an 11-hour flight. Especially if your in-flight entertainment system isn't working!

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Download some backup movies and podcasts onto your device -

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Pack extra snacks -

Airline food isn't always filling, even on long-haul flights, and it's important to stay well nourished. You won't be sorry to find fruit or granola bars in your carry-on.

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Stay hygienic -

Bring toiletries in your carry-on and make sure to brush your teeth, throw on some deodorant, or even change your clothes in the bathroom. Not only for you, but for everyone else's sake as well!

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Get creative -

It's not always that you get to sit down for such a long time, more or less distraction-free. Make the most of it by brining a notebook, a sketchpad, or whatever else you need to get creative.

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Get productive -

If you have your laptop with you, take the opportunity to catch up on some work that needs doing. And if you get bored, you can easily watch something.

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Get a drink -

Some people enjoy a glass of wine or beer, often free on international flights, to accompany their in-flight meals and entertainment. Don't be afraid to enjoy a glass!

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Don't forget to hydrate -

However, be sensible when it comes to booze onboard, as it can mess up your sleep pattern. But one thing that's really important is to drink plenty of water. It will fight off dehydration and help combat jet lag.

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Bring your best conversation -

Most people dread sitting next to someone chatty, but maybe it's a genuinely interesting and friendly fellow traveler. Long flights can get boring, so don't be afraid to strike up a conversation. But, of course, don't bother anyone if it's not appropriate.

Sources: (Travel + Leisure) (USA Today)

See also: Don't make these airport mistakes 

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