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09th Mar 2018

Flight Crews Reveal How They Stay So ‘Fresh And Preppy’ On Long-Haul Flights

Shirleydonlon

Travelling has to be one of our favourite things to do, and with cheap flights and so many places to visit, our options are almost endless.

However, the one thing that really puts a dampener on a trip away is how bloody exhausted we are once we step foot off the plane. Anyone else? 

Thankfully for us, Business Insider UK spoke to flight crew to find out how they remain so preppy and awake throughout long-haul flights and different time zones. 

Water, water & more water

Rachel Warren Wilson, a Dubai-based flight attendant recommends investing in a reusable bottle.

She carries one whether she is working a shift or just simply travelling as a passenger, and drinks about 3 litres on a six hour flight.

She said: “I refill it with plain water all the time and make sure it’s within easy reach all the time.”

Embrace your new time zone

Madeleine Schneider-Weiffenbach, a licensed pilot and travel blogger, and Kara Mulder, a private-jet flight attendant, both say that forcing themselves to stay awake during the day time of their new time zone helps with combatting jet lag.

Madeline said: “Sometimes it’s hard if you arrive in New York City very early and need to stay awake all day,” but she said she feels better if she syncs up to the local time.

Avoid germs & pack vitamins

Patrick Biedenkapp, a Berlin-based pilot, said he brings vitamin D pills with him in the winter to help compensate for lack of sunshine.

To minimise contact with germs he said he uses hand sanitizer and avoids turning on air conditioners in hotel rooms, which he said spreads germs.

Eat healthy snacks frequently

Mulder said the key to keeping energised is packing healthy snacks, and avoiding sugary sweets.

“I take protein shakes with me and put them together before the passengers get there, then I take swigs of that.”

Get your caffeine fix

Wilson said that although drinking too much can cause an energy crash or the jitters, she said it is essential to drink some sometimes, especially on a long, or overnight, flight. 

Stay positive & be grateful

Mulder said that when trying to get through a working day on little sleep it mostly comes down to your “mental attitude”. 

“I acknowledge I’m super lucky to have the job I have. There’s an element of gratitude: You’re here, so show up.”

She also stays positive by keeping in mind that it won’t be long until she is back in her cosy bed again.

READ MORE: Aer Lingus Launch Blue Monday With Flash Sale On Flights To USA

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