How to Survive a Long-Haul Flight from Delhi (13+ Hours)

Whether you are flying from Delhi to Europe, North America, Australia or Japan, a long-haul flight can mean ten hours or more in the air, sometimes with a layover on top. It does not have to be an ordeal. A bit of planning before you leave, and a few good habits on board, can help you arrive feeling far more human.

Choose your seat wisely

Your seat shapes the whole flight, so pick it with your priorities in mind.

• Window seat: good for sleeping, as you can lean against the wall and nobody will climb over you.
• Aisle seat: better if you like to stretch your legs, drink plenty of water or need frequent washroom breaks.
• Exit rows and bulkhead seats: often have more legroom but may cost extra, have fixed armrests, and come with conditions. Exit rows are not available to children or anyone who cannot assist in an emergency.
• Away from the galley and washrooms: usually quieter, with less foot traffic and light.

Many airlines charge for advance seat selection on some fares. Check what your ticket includes and use web check-in as early as allowed for the best chance of a good free seat.

Plan your sleep and tackle jet lag

Jet lag happens when your body clock is out of step with local time. Direction matters.

Flying west (Europe, UK, North America)

You gain hours, so your day gets longer. Many people find this easier. Try to stay awake until a sensible local bedtime on arrival.

Flying east (Japan, Australia, East Asia)

You lose hours, which many travellers find harder. Going to bed a little earlier for a few nights before you fly can help.

On board

• Set your watch to destination time as soon as you board and try to sleep when it is night there.
• Use an eye mask, earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones, and a neck pillow.
• Go easy on caffeine and alcohol, which can disturb sleep.
• Get daylight on arrival. It is one of the simplest ways to help your body adjust.

Stay hydrated

Cabin air is dry, and it is easy to drink less than you need. Carry an empty refillable bottle through security and ask the crew to fill it. Sip water regularly rather than gulping a lot at once. A lip balm, moisturiser and eye drops can also make you more comfortable.

Keep moving

Sitting still for hours is uncomfortable and, for some people, raises the risk of blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis, or DVT). This is general information, not medical advice.

• Get up and walk the aisle every couple of hours when it is safe to do so.
• Do simple seated exercises: ankle circles, flexing your feet and tightening your calf muscles.
• Avoid crossing your legs for long periods.
• If you are pregnant, have had recent surgery, have a history of clots or any health condition, speak to your doctor before flying. They may suggest compression stockings or other precautions.

Dress for comfort

Wear loose, breathable layers. Cabins can feel warm during boarding and cold at night, so a light jumper or shawl is useful. Comfortable shoes you can slip off are ideal, as feet often swell a little on long flights. Pack a pair of socks. If you are landing somewhere much colder, such as Europe in winter, keep a jacket in your hand luggage rather than in your checked bag.

Pack a smart carry-on kit

• Passport, visa, tickets, hotel details and travel insurance, plus copies
• Prescription medicines in their original packaging, with a copy of your prescription
• Phone, charger, power bank (cabin baggage only on most airlines) and headphones
• Toothbrush, small toothpaste, face wipes and moisturiser, within liquid limits
• A change of clothes, in case your checked bag is delayed
• Snacks you know you like, but check the food import rules of your destination
• A pen for any arrival forms

Cabin baggage and liquid rules differ between airlines and airports, so check them before you pack.

Sort out your meals

Most full-service airlines let you request a special meal in advance, such as vegetarian, Jain, Hindu, diabetic or child meals. Request it when booking or at least a day or two before departure, as each airline has its own deadline. Confirm it again at check-in. Carrying a few dry snacks is wise in case your meal does not turn up or the timings do not suit you.

Handle layovers well

A layover can be a welcome break or a stressful rush. A few things to know:

• Transit visas: some countries require Indian passport holders to hold a transit visa even if you do not leave the airport, while others do not. Rules differ by country and can change, so check the official requirements for your route before booking. Our visa services can help.
• Connection time: very short connections are risky, especially if you need to change terminals or go through security again.
• Separate tickets: if your flights are on separate bookings, a missed connection may not be the airline's responsibility, and you may need to collect and re-check your bags.
• Long layovers: look for airport lounges, rest areas or showers to freshen up.

Flying with children and elderly parents

Children

Bring familiar snacks, a tablet with downloaded shows, a favourite toy and spare clothes. For babies, ask the airline about bassinets in advance, as they are limited. Feeding during take-off and landing can help ease ear pressure.

Elders

Request wheelchair or assistance services when booking or well before departure. Choose an aisle seat near the washroom, keep medicines in the hand bag, and encourage gentle movement and plenty of water during the flight.

Plan your arrival day

Keep the first day light. Arrange your airport transfer in advance, have some local currency or a working card, and make sure your phone will work. If you land in the morning, try to stay up until evening and get outside in daylight. Save big sightseeing plans for day two.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best seat on a long-haul flight?

It depends on you. Choose a window seat if you want to sleep and an aisle seat if you like to move around. Seats away from the galley and washrooms tend to be quieter.

How can I reduce jet lag after flying from Delhi?

Switch to destination time on board, sleep when it is night there, stay hydrated, limit caffeine and alcohol, and get daylight after you land.

Can I get Jain or vegetarian meals on international flights?

Many full-service airlines offer them if you request in advance. Deadlines vary by airline, so ask early and reconfirm at check-in.

Do I need a transit visa for my layover?

It depends on the country and your passport. Some countries require one even airside. Always check the official rules for your route before you book.

What should I do to avoid DVT on a long flight?

Walk around when safe, do seated leg exercises and drink water. If you have any risk factors, ask your doctor for advice before flying.

Planning a long trip? Explore our Europe tour packages or Japan tour packages, search international flights on the JourneyDeal homepage, or contact us for help planning your journey.