Talk to me like I'm an idiot about flying...

[buzzing]

So, I'm flying long haul for the first time in a looong time in a couple of weeks and I feel like I have no idea how to do it anymore. What tips do people have?

Do I need to bring my own headphones? Presumably they'd need to be ones with a lead rather than wireless?

With the limit on liquids, can I decant stuff in to tiny bottles or does it need to be in original packaging?

Do airlines still do free drinks in economy?

I'm both excited and nervous and like to be organised so I can enjoy every moment 😃

I flew long haul pre-covid, not sure what's changed since but,

• I took wired jacked headphones with me
• yes you can decant liquids into little bottles, just make sure they are all in a clear, sealable plastic bag
• yes there were free drinks in economy, hot and soft drinks

Enjoy your flight and your holiday!

Thank you!

It's been over 10 years since I did any long haul flight so I feel very out of touch.

I thought of another question, can I take an empty water bottle through security?

Is free booze still a thing in economy? Or does that depend on the airline? I intend to make the most of the money spent 😃

Yes, you can take an empty water bottle through security, most airports now have a water fountain once you're airside.
If you decant liquids into smaller bottles make sure they have the volume on them to prove they're under 100ml. Even if it's obviously under they can be funny if it doesn't specify on the container.
free booze will depend on the airline, there should be details on their website.

Get noise cancelling headphones they cut out most of the background noise, cosmetics and sun creams, toothpaste do need to be in small containers, others will be confiscated.

I use decent noise cancelling headphones, they provide drinks and food, unsure about alcohol as I don’t like drinking when I’m flying. They had the tv and games screen in the back of each seat as opposed to a few screens dotted round which is what they had years ago. I never bother with any liquids etc in hand luggage apart from a tiny sanitising hand gel.

Am flying with Singapore Air - can't find anything about drinks on their website but other sites are saying that there is a cocktail menu for economy. I think a Singapore Sling will be the perfect start to my holiday 😁

Singapore were one of the top airlines before Covid, but do be aware that some airlines have cut down on service since, they will feed you but maybe no frills.

Singapore air are actually really good, especially compared to most other airlines!

They gave us lots of nice food and snacks and drinks.

Definitely take in your carry on headphones, a water bottle, comfy socks and a jumper (they give you a fleecy blanket onboard), lip balm, toothbrush, an eye mask, and a change of underwear as you'll probably feel gross.

They give you headphones for the tv, and they usually have a good film and tv collection.

I flew with Qatar long haul last week, all drinks were free including alcohol, meals were pretty substantial - a starter, a main, a bread, a dessert, fruit pot. Headphones, eye mask, toothbrush, toothpaste and earplugs provided

I take my own noise cancelling headphones (needed a 2 prong jack for Emirates) so I can completely switch off. Alcohol still free and food was decent. Comfy clothes (soft bra and socks) plus a decent pillow are my must haves! If the flight is not too long and you have a decent seat it can be quite enjoyable. I recently did 17 hours (1 hour refuel stop) which was a little too long for my liking!