When the flight is long lasting, the hours inside the plane may seem endless if there is no preparation before boarding. Being able to count on privileges like choosing the seat and relaxing in a VIP lounge makes the trip much more comfortable. The airlines that are part of oneworld – Latin America’s largest airline alliance offer these benefits, as well as a plethora of entertainments such as fun playlists and movies that will make time pass faster.

Here are some tips for planning a long flight and taking advantage of the privileges your loyalty card can offer:

1. Choose your seat. For those who prefer window, to look at the clouds, or hallway, to feel freer to lift, this detail makes a big difference. Seat selection is one of the benefits of oneworld, in the Emerald, Sapphire and Ruby category card status. In addition to early check-in, access to VIP lounges and preferential boarding.
2. Prepare your body. The day before the flight, schedule yourself to spend some time at the gym, walk or do some exercise. This will help not to succumb over the long sitting or lying down period. Make sure you also get on board with your day’s sleep so you do not get on the exhausted plane and then get sore.
3. Relax in the VIP Lounge. Whether it’s making a snack, sipping a drink or working before you leave, it’s vital to have a comfortable place to wait for the boarding call. The oneworld loyalty card in the Emerald and Saphire status gives you access to over 650 VIP lounges and premium rooms, some of which are among the best in the world. Emerald customers also take advantage of the free additional baggage allowance and quick pass-through on safety inspections at various airports.
4. Check your chargers. Charge all your electronic devices and be sure to bring the battery backup for the long haul. Having an external charging device is an interesting back-up.
5. Carry personalized entertainment. Feed your laptop, tablet or mobile phone with music, movies and e-books. While the 14 oneworld member companies have a rich schedule on board, it’s always fun to have that book or movie you’ve been wanting to check out for months, but you did not have time. Paper books are also a good request to rest your eyes from the screen.
6. Take care of your food. One study pointed out that carbohydrate-rich foods such as pasta and whole-grain bread make the body more adaptable to aircraft pressure. According to the study, higher insulin levels soothe and make sleep easier. If you want to be served first, or have some food restriction, as a frequent flyer associated with oneworld member airlines you can book a special meal. Just request 72 hours before boarding. There are several types of meals that you can request depending on the airline you are flying in, so check before your flight.
7. Stay hydrated. There is no exact number of gallons of water to drink on a long flight, but health experts recommend drinking more than normal as it is a good situation for dehydration. Especially if you like to drink a good wine – remembering that the oneworld member company wine cards are awarded – always ask the stewardess for a glass of water to accompany.

Photo: Reproduction