surviving a 12-hour flight in basic economy
Last time I flew to Tokyo, I spent 12 hours squeezed into a basic economy seat, and let me tell you, it felt like I was stuck in a sardine can. I always thought I could handle long flights, but after hour six, my legs started cramping, and I couldn’t find a comfortable way to rest my head—even with the window seat. I tried rolling up my jacket as a pillow, but it kept slipping, and the tiny blanket they gave me barely covered my knees.
What really got me was the food situation. I brought snacks, but after the third granola bar, I was desperate for something fresh. The in-flight meals were tiny, and I kept wishing I’d packed a sandwich or some fruit. And don’t get me started on the bathroom lines—every time I finally got up the nerve to stretch my legs, there was a line halfway down the aisle.
I’m curious—has anyone found a way to actually get some real sleep on these long flights? Or figured out how to keep your legs from feeling like concrete? And what’s the secret to staying sane when you’re surrounded by strangers for half a day? I’d love to hear what’s worked (or totally failed) for you. I can’t be the only one who feels like these flights are a test of endurance!
#longhaulflight #travelstruggles #basicconomy #Travel
