Smooth Sailing: Effortless Hacks for a Stress-Free Flight Day

9. Move Around to Avoid Stiffness

Sitting in one position for hours can leave you feeling stiff, sluggish, and uncomfortable—especially on long-haul flights. Staying in one spot for too long can also increase the risk of swelling in your feet and legs, or even deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition where blood clots form due to prolonged immobility. To keep your circulation flowing, make a habit of getting up every couple of hours to walk up and down the aisle, stretch your arms and legs, and gently roll your shoulders. If you’re in a cramped seat or have limited mobility, even simple in-seat stretches can help. Try flexing and pointing your toes, rolling your ankles, or gently twisting your torso to keep your muscles engaged. Compression socks are also a great investment for long flights, as they improve blood flow and prevent swelling in your lower legs. Bonus tip: If you’re in a window seat and don’t want to disturb your row often, do seated exercises like calf raises, knee lifts, or foot circles. Even small movements make a big difference in preventing stiffness and discomfort.