Flights to USA tend to be lengthy. My longest one was 16 hours and had 2 layovers. All I can say is that I am surprised my knees are still with me. I flew to USA plenty of times and I want to share some of the things that made my flights easier.
Tip 1: Opt for Direct Flight to USA
I know that sometimes it’s not possible or affordable to book a direct flight to USA, but it does make a huge difference. If the price is an issue, I advise tracking fare changes and setting a tracking reminder via Google Flights, which will notify you in case of drastic price changes. Another (although controversial) option is using Skiplagged.
Skiplagged is a travel website and app known for finding “hidden city” flight deals, where travelers intentionally book flights with layovers IN their desired destination, rather than the final stop, to save money. It helps users uncover cost-effective flight routes that may not be apparent through traditional booking platforms. You might get in trouble for (ab)using it though, so be mindful about it.
If you need to have a layover, try not to have it within the States, as you will most likely be asked to retrieve and recheck your checked-in luggage for the next flight, which is a pain in the… 😃
Tip 2: Check-In at the Counter
I advise you to check in at the airport when flying to USA, as usually they will offer to check-in your carry-on, which is great, especially in case of layovers. I don’t think United Airlines does it often (never happened to me, and that’s why I had to carry my carry-on around when visiting NYC during my 8-hour layover sightseeing trip!). However, American Airlines and British Airways are always happy to offer that. Another great thing about it is that they might offer a better seat. It happened to me that my seats were changed from the middle to the aisle!
Tip 3: Bring a Pillow or Big Jacket
I had serious problems sleeping in airplanes until I came up with this trick. I “steal” a big jacket from my boyfriend, fold it into a tall pillow, and place it on the tray table in front of me. Then, I lay my head on top of it. I found it works much better than trying to sleep while reclining. I suppose a pillow might work similarly, but I think a jacket might be better due to its size.
These are definitely #BusinessEconomyStruggles and it’s not the most elegant solution, but hey, maybe one day I will be able to afford a First Class ticket. You can buy me a coffee if you want to help me achieve this goal. Wow, that was nearly seamless, lol.
Tip 4: Invest in Ear Muffs
Sleeping on a boyfriend’s jacket can be upgraded by purchasing ear muffs. I’m not speaking of the cute, fury, pink ones, but the heavy black ones used in shooting ranges. They are great at noise-cancelling and surprisingly not that bad to sleep in (as for the plane conditions).
Tip 5: Preorder Your Meal
Always, always, always order a meal in advance. You can do it via the airline website. If you don’t do it, you will be left with two standard options, meat – usually chicken and vegetarian – usually pasta. I am a pescatarian and don’t like pasta, so I always order the Asian Vegetarian meal. Usually, it’s heavenly and I get some jealous stares. 😄
Tip 6: Pack Herbal Teas for flight to USA
This tip might not appeal to everyone, but dear hot beverage-lowers, beware! Usually, only tea and coffee are available on board, but if you drink too many of them, even tips 3 and 4 won’t help when it comes to sleep. Decaf coffee is often available as well, but it makes me feel a bit weird, and they make it very strong. I have recently seen chamomile being present on a flight, but I think it was an exception. Therefore, I suggest you bring a couple of your favorite herbal teas on board the flight to USA and just ask for hot water.
Yes, I know, the airplane water is gross. Sorry, it’s cold there and I’m Polish, I need my tea.
Tip 7: Get Some Work Done
Believe it or not but I usually get plenty of work done while flying across the ocean. I low-key like flying because it’s just me doing my regular bioinformatics stuff, with the upgrade of being served some food, which normally I’d have to prepare! I know it’s a rather unusual take on this but give it a try. Try to get some work done and you’ll be surprised how much you can accomplish in the air.
Tip 8: Be Considerate When Reclining
This isn’t a tip, but rather a request. Please, when you want to recline your seat, check with the person behind you. They might have a laptop or (hot) beverage there, and a sudden move might make a mess. Once, an inconsiderate gentleman sitting in front of me nearly spilled the whole coffee on my laptop. I somehow managed to catch the cup, but it was pure luck.
A long flight to USA can be challenging, but with these practical tips, you can make your journey more enjoyable and hassle-free. Share your flight survival tricks in the comments, and if you’re a first-time traveler to the USA, don’t forget to check out my FREE 10-step guide for visiting the US. Safe travels!
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Until next time,
A.
