Let’s face it: while traveling the world is exciting, the plane ride isn’t always the most glamorous part. Between tight seats, long layovers, and jet lag, flying can be draining — unless you know a few tricks.
Here are 15 tried-and-tested plane travel hacks to make your next flight smoother, more comfortable, and even a little enjoyable. And stick around to the end — there’s one tool, Tengah, that can save you time and money the moment you step off the plane.
1. Choose Your Seat Strategically
Use sites like SeatGuru to check seat maps before selecting your spot. Want more legroom? Aim for exit rows. Hate turbulence? Sit over the wings. Need to sleep? Avoid rows near the bathrooms or galley.
2. Bring a Compact Carry-On
Avoid checked bags when possible. A soft-shell carry-on gives you flexibility to squeeze into overhead bins. Bonus: no waiting at baggage claim or risking lost luggage.
3. Bring an Empty Water Bottle
Fill it after security. Staying hydrated is key to beating jet lag and feeling human after a long flight. Opt for a collapsible bottle to save space.
4. Download Your Entertainment in Advance
Don’t rely on the in-flight entertainment system — it might not work or may not have great options. Load up your tablet or phone with:
5. Master the Sleep Setup
- Netflix downloads
- Podcasts
- Audiobooks
- Language learning apps
Long flight? Pack a neck pillow, eye mask, noise-canceling headphones, and even a light blanket. Don’t forget compression socks to help circulation.
6. Pack Your Own Snacks
Skip overpriced airport food and avoid processed in-flight meals. Bring healthy snacks like:
- Nuts
- Dried fruit
- Protein bars
- Instant oatmeal (just add hot water)
7. Dress in Layers
Airplane cabins can go from warm to freezing in minutes. Layer up with breathable fabrics and bring a lightweight scarf or hoodie.
8. Enable Offline Mode
Before you fly:
- Download offline maps (e.g., Google Maps or Maps.me)
- Save boarding passes to your wallet app
- Screenshot hotel addresses or gate numbers
So you’re not scrambling for Wi-Fi mid-journey.
9. Speed Through Customs
Use Mobile Passport Control (for US citizens) or eGates when available. Also, research your arrival airport ahead of time — knowing the terminal layout can save stress when you’re jet-lagged and disoriented.
10. When You Land: Don’t Get Ripped Off — Use Tengah
After a long flight, you’ll often need a ride, SIM card, tour, or meal — and that’s when jet lag meets unfamiliar pricing.
Tengah is a smart travel App that helps you know what a fair price is for local services. It crowdsources real prices travelers paid for things like:
- Airport taxis
- SIM cards
- Souvenirs
- Local tours
- Shopping
Instead of blindly accepting the first offer, Tengah lets you see what other travelers actually paid in your destination, so you can bargain with confidence or avoid overpaying.
Pro tip: Use it when you land to check the typical taxi fare into the city — one of the easiest ways to get scammed as a tourist.
11. Carry a Universal Travel Adapter
Don’t assume the airport or hotel will have the right plug. A compact universal adapter with USB ports ensures your phone and devices stay charged anywhere.
12. Pack a Mini Health Kit
Include:
- Painkillers
- Melatonin
- Motion sickness tablets
- Eye drops
- Hand sanitizer
- Wipes
You’ll thank yourself at 35,000 feet or when arriving somewhere remote.
13. Use Airline Apps
Download your airline’s app for real-time updates on gate changes, boarding times, and baggage tracking. Most also offer free entertainment on your device if you bring headphones.
14. Organize Your Docs in One Place
Use a travel wallet or pouch to keep your passport, boarding pass, COVID docs (if required), and hotel info in one spot. Digitize everything as a backup.
15. Learn a Few Local Phrases Mid-Flight
Use the time in the air to learn basic greetings or questions in the local language using apps like Duolingo. You’ll feel more confident the second you land — and locals will appreciate the effort.
Plane travel doesn’t have to be a hassle. With just a bit of prep and the right tools, you can arrive refreshed, organized, and ready to explore.
And once you land, don’t forget: Tengah is your secret weapon for getting fair prices and supporting local economies responsibly. It’s especially helpful in destinations where haggling is the norm — so you can shop, ride, or book activities without second-guessing.