Hi folks

Ron, having made the flight from Australia to the USA 3 times, I've got a few suggestions about surviving long flights.

The best suggestion I can make is go for a 'bulkhead' seat. That is, one of the seats next to an emergency exit. While the idea of being near a door might seem unnerving, the ability to simply stand up when you want to go to the bathroom / walk around / etc is definitely worth it. This will require some discussion with the airline (probably at check-in... depends on the airline's policies), however if you have any sort of medical condition that might require you to have an easier method of getting out of your seat, you might be able to swing it. Failing that, get an aisle seat - at least you won't feel guilty when you need to go to the bathroom.

If you can afford it, investigate Air New Zealand's "premium economy" seating. These are a limited number of seats that are roomier than economy, but cheaper than business class. I don't know if ANZ flies to Hawai'i, but it's worth checking out. Even if you can't get their premium economy, ANZ have excellent service.

Next, I strongly suggest that you purchase some earbuds that conform to the shape of your ear canal. The better the earbud's ability to block sound (decibels) the better your flight will be. If you're seated behind the wings, you're going to be getting the brunt of the sound coming from those massive engines under the wings. Blocking that sound will give you a better chance of sleep.

Stay hydrated. Drink water, and perhaps contemplate buying a nasal spray to stop your nose membranes from drying out. Eye drops are also worth contemplating. While we're discussing 'equipment', a small bottle of antiseptic hand wash would be a worthwhile investment.

Finally, do remember to stretch your legs from time to time. Deep vein thrombosis isn't fun.

that's about it from me - anyone else got some suggestions?


cheers

Hachiman