Flight attendant explains why you shouldn't always eat food on long haul trips

03 March 2023 , 12:00

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Having the food could stop you getting precious sleep (stock photo) (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

A flight attendant has opened up about why it is not always the best idea to eat your meal on a long haul trip - it could stop you getting some much-needed rest.

Kris Major is a seasoned flyer who has worked on planes for over two decades, so is well aware of some of the best tips and tricks of the trade.

But he has explained that even though it's tempting to take the food offered to you on a long haul flight, it is sometimes best not to. Turning it down could actually help you get to sleep.

Just because they offer food does not mean you have to have it (stock photo) (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Speaking to CNN Travel, Kris explained: "The seasoned travellers, after take off you go down the cabin and you can see that they're gone – they've covered themselves up and they're asleep.

"Most airlines don't particularly plan their [food] service around the passenger and acclimatisation and time zones crossing."

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So the next time you find yourself on a long haul flight overnight it might best to avoid the meal they pass round and instead focus on squeezing in as much rest as possible.

If your flight is on the shorter end of the long haul scale then try eating before you board so that by the time you get to your seat, you are ready for some well-earned rest, Kris suggested.

In addition, if your flight spans several hours you might find they offer more than one meal, so getting as much rest as you can early on to maximise the time could be the solution. By the time 'breakfast' comes round you will be fresher and ready to tuck into some food which will give you fuel when you reach your destination.

Kris also says that your choice of seat can be also be crucial in maximising rest on a long flight. According to the flight attendant, opting for a window or aisle seat could be your ticket to a better amount of sleep.

The added room or place to rest your head can just add to your comfort.

Kris has also revealed some savvy tips to staying fresh on a long haul flight as travel can make you feel tired and grubby. He said that most people like to clean their teeth when they need to in order to stay fresh.

Washing in any way you can will help you feel. better, or even putting some make up on if that makes you feel better.

Freddie Bennett