As with most airlines, you’ll need to pre-book your vegan meal, but Qatar Airways makes the process straightforward and hassle-free. In economy class of Qatar Airways, the vegan main course usually includes a main dish, bread with vegan butter, a salad, fruit or dessert, and a bottle of water.

A variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks is also available to choose from.

Their food is consistently creative and tastes great, especially for airline cuisine.

Qatar Airways has introduced a range of delicious vegan dishes to its à la carte menu in business class on all flights. We are definitely looking forward to trying these business-class vegan meal options soon!

VEGAN MEAL IN ECONOMY CLASS

Before flying, make sure you select your special meal at least 24 hours before departure. The meal is listed as Vegetarian Meal – Vegan (VGML) and is completely free from animal products. It does not contain meat, fish, honey, eggs, or dairy. It has been an option for years and we always select this meal. 

On Qatar Airways, your food is served at the same time as that of other passengers. This is not the same on all airlines. Sometimes you get your food first and sometimes at the same time as other passengers.

On most flights with Qatar Airways, you will receive a main course followed by a light snack. It depends on the length of the flight. The cabin crew also offers trays of light bites, such as chips and pretzels. However, it can be difficult to tell which ones are vegan.

Once, we picked a snack that appeared vegan, but upon checking the ingredients, we found that it wasn’t. On another occasion, we chose a bag of chips, which turned out to be vegan. If potato chips are available, they’re usually a safe choice.

Vegan food on Qatar Airways can vary depending on the airport from which you depart. On our recent flights, the vegan meals were delicious, except when departing from Bangkok, where the food was not very enjoyable.

->Find the best flight deals! Click here to book your trip now!

OUR LATEST EXPERIENCE – VEGAN QATAR AIRWAYS

On one of our latest flights with Qatar Airways from Venice to Doha, the main course was stir-fried noodles with tofu, mushrooms, and vegetables. This dish was incredible—we loved it!

On our following flight to Bangkok, we were served stir-fried noodles with vegetables, pak choi, and tofu in sweet and sour sauce. This vegan meal was anything but boring. The flavours were excellent, and we thoroughly enjoyed our dinner.

For our later snack on that flight with Qatar Airways, we received a veggie wrap, which was also very tasty. Nothing compares to enjoying a good meal during a long day of travel.

On our return flight, the food was prepared by Thai Catering Service for our Qatar Airways flight, and unfortunately, we didn’t enjoy it.

First, we were served a sandwich with only a few pieces of cooked eggplant and paprika inside. This was not to our taste and definitely not our favourite. 

For the main course on our Qatar Airways flight, we received polenta with a side of cooked asparagus and a sauce made from paprika and eggplants. It looks good, but the combination of flavours didn’t appeal to us. We were quite dissatisfied with this vegan meal option. The only good thing is that we got two cups of fresh tropical fruit. 

However, keep in mind that Qatar Airways themselves did not prepare this food.

Our next flight departed from Doha, and the food was delicious once again. We were served a hearty Indian meal featuring saffron upma, medu vada, sambar, and tomato chutney.

The meal also included a dessert, along with vegan butter and a delightful cherry jam. You do not very often receive a vegan dessert with an airline meal. Usually, it is just fruits and a salad. 

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QATAR AIRWAYS STOPOVER

One of the highlights of flying with Qatar Airways is taking advantage of their stopover option. Although we had flown with them several times before, we never tried a stopover until now. It is a great option if you have an extra 2–3 days in your travel schedule.

When booking tickets you have to select a Stopover Program and then pick a 4 or 5-star hotel for your stay. 

We explored the beautiful city of Doha and discovered some amazing vegan restaurants. One of our favourite plant-based spots is Evergreen Organics, Qatar’s first vegan café, which opened in 2016. It has several locations across the city and even one at Doha International Airport.

If you’re flying with Qatar Airways, there’s a good chance you’ll have a short stopover at Doha International Airport.

During your stopover with Qatar Airways, do not forget to visit Evergreen Organics, the airport’s plant-based café. On their menu, you can find cold-pressed juices, smoothie bowls, toasts, sandwiches, salads, and a big selection of sweets, including brownies, muffins, and cookies. Isn’t it cool that you can find a plant-based restaurant at the airport?

QATAR AIRWAYS AMENITY KIT

The space in economy class of Qatar Airways is generous, and the entertainment options are excellent. There are always a few of the latest movies available to watch.

On our recent flights with Qatar Airways, the amenity kit was delivered in a paper bag, which we love for its ecological benefits, even though it may not look the most stylish. Inside, you’ll find a warm pair of socks, earplugs, a face mask, and a toothbrush with toothpaste—the usual, very useful travel essentials.

If you’d like to learn more about travel bag essentials, check out our guide: Carry-On Bag Essentials: What to Pack for a Comfortable Journey.

SEE ALSO:

Taste the Skies: Vegan Delights on Emirates Economy Class

Turkish Airlines – Vegan Meal Experience in Economy and Business Class

The post Vegan Meal Above the Clouds: A Qatar Airways Experience in Economy Class appeared first on Vegan Friendly Travel.

Bangkok Airways provides an option to select a vegan meal for all travellers. In this guide, we will explore the vegan meal choices Bangkok Airways offers, so you know what to look forward to on your next flight.

WHY ARE THEY ONE OF OUR FAVOURITE AIRLINES?

We have flown with Bangkok Airways on multiple occasions, primarily for domestic routes within Thailand. But recently we have also chosen them for international flights to Laos and Cambodia. Once we flew with them also from Kuala Lumpur.

Although their tickets can be a bit pricier than other airlines, we always prefer Bangkok Airways. They are a safe and reliable airline to use when travelling in Thailand. We have been fortunate enough to experience consistently punctual flights with them.

Bangkok Airways provides complimentary meals, drinks, and baggage allowances for all passengers. Even on short flights, they offer a full-service experience, including in-flight meals, which is rare for domestic flights in this region.

On our latest flights, we were pleased to discover that we could choose our seats for free. A feature that may not be available on all flights, but was a welcome bonus for us.

The airline connects both popular tourist spots and more off-the-beaten-track destinations, such as Koh Samui, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, as well as international locations like Siem Reap in Cambodia.

If you are flying with Bangkok Airways in and out of Koh Samui, you will be pleasantly surprised by the snacks and drinks provided at the airport before departure.

VEGAN FOOD ON BANGKOK AIRWAYS

Bangkok Airways offers vegan meals as part of their special meal options, available on all flights. To enjoy a vegan meal (VGML), you must request it at least 24 hours before your flight. VGML stands for “Western Vegan, No Dairy. You can make this request by contacting the airline or managing your booking online.

Vegan meals on Bangkok Airways contain no animal products. That means no meat, fish, dairy, eggs, or honey. Typical dishes include rice or noodles with vegetables, legumes, and vegan proteins, along with fruit-based vegan desserts or snacks.

In addition to vegan meals, Bangkok Airways offers other special meal options, such as gluten-free and diabetic-friendly meals, ensuring that even on shorter domestic flights, all dietary needs are covered with a complimentary meal service.

To secure your vegan meal or other special meal, remember to request it in advance. You can also confirm your choice when checking in online or at the airport.

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OUR LATEST EXPERIENCE WITH A VEGAN MEAL ON BANGKOK AIRWAYS

Bangkok Airways provides meals and snacks on all flights. On some flights, you will get a simple snack and a bottle of water; on other flights, you might get a full meal. It usually depends on the length of the flight.

We enjoyed a full vegan meal on our recent flight with Bangkok Airways from Bangkok to Siem Reap. Sweet and sour tofu with rice, a bottle of water, a rice pudding dessert, and an option for tea or coffee.

The food was delicious, and we were genuinely impressed. The plane was small but offered good legroom, making the journey comfortable.

Our return flight from Phnom Penh to Bangkok was shorter, so instead of a full meal, each passenger received a paper bag with snacks. Our vegan snack bag included a banana, a bottle of water, and a bread roll filled with curried vegetables. This small but flavourful dish made a satisfying meal for the short flight with Bangkok Airways.

These thoughtful touches make travel more enjoyable for vegan travellers. Bangkok Airways could have easily provided plain vegan bread, but instead, they added tasty vegetables and spices, showing care and creativity in their vegan meal service. This attention to detail means that even those with special dietary needs get to enjoy a thoughtfully prepared meal.

Overall, Bangkok Airways delivers a premium travel experience. Even on short domestic flights, they are a top choice for travellers seeking comfort and quality. With its thoughtful plant-based meal options, flying as a vegan is not just easy but enjoyable.

VEGAN DINING OPTIONS AT SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT

If you are flying with Bangkok Airways, there’s a good chance your journey will begin or end at Suvarnabhumi Airport. While plant-based options are limited, you can still find a few suitable bites.

One option is the Koh Hop Bar, which offers a vegetarian burger that can be made vegan with a few adjustments.

Another great choice is the mango sticky rice sold in many shops and restaurants throughout the airport. This traditional Thai dessert is usually vegan, as it’s made with rice cooked in coconut milk and served with fresh mango. It is one of our favourite desserts in Thailand. Whenever we fly with Bangkok Airways, we always make sure to grab mango sticky rice at the airport.

For a more traditional meal, head to Imm Rice & Noodle, which has a vegetarian menu featuring Thai dishes. To make these plant-based, simply ask the staff to prepare your dish without eggs. Options include Pad Thai, fried rice, or stir-fried mushrooms with rice.

Bangkok Airways proves that great service includes catering to all dietary preferences and restrictions. Because of that, you can relax and enjoy your journey with Bangkok Airways from take-off to landing. Travelling as a vegan doesn’t have to be a hassle if you are flying with an airline like Bangkok Airways, which truly cares!

If you want to learn how to have the best flight experience, we’ve created two helpful guides for you. First, explore our guide on mastering your next long-haul flight. Then, check out our tips on what to pack in your carry-on bag for a more comfortable journey.

SEE ALSO:

Taste the Skies: Vegan Delights on Emirates Economy Class

The post How Vegan-Friendly is Bangkok Airways? Here is What to Expect from Their Plant-Based Menu appeared first on Vegan Friendly Travel.

If you’ve ever been worried about finding decent plant-based meals while flying through the skies, this guide is here to help. We’ve rounded up the best airlines that not only understand vegan travellers but also offer delicious, satisfying meals that make flying a breeze.

Whether you’re heading off on a quick getaway or a long-haul adventure, these airlines have got your back. They will ensure you’ll have tasty, plant-based options on board. With these airlines, you will no longer need to pack your meals for the flights. 

So, please sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the best vegan-friendly airlines for your next trip!

EMIRATES – THE BEST VEGAN MEAL

Emirates has long been our favourite. If you are looking for comfort and class, they don’t disappoint when it comes to their food options. The vegan meal in Economy Class on Emirates usually includes a main course, salad, bread, vegan butter, and dessert.

On longer flights, there is also a light snack, which is a combination of a sandwich or wrap and a dessert.

As big foodies, we sometimes feel that vegan meals on different airlines are not that great. But on Emirates the situation is different, you can tell that they care about what they serve to their customers.

On Emirates, it truly feels like even dietary meals like vegan meals are in great hands. Mostly all the meals we had when flying with them were delicious. 

->If you want to read a more detailed guide to our latest experience. Click here.

TURKISH AIRLINES VEGAN MEAL

Turkish Airlines provides a vegan meal on all their flights. In Turkish Airlines economy and business class, breakfast usually includes two types of bread: one filled with spinach and the other with mushrooms. You get the same breakfast no matter what class you are flying in. For lunch and dinner, there is some variety.

For the main course on Turkish Airlines, there are usually some vegetables with rice, mushrooms, spinach, chickpeas, and peas. The main course is served with some fruit, salad, and a dessert.

The plant-based food in the economy class of Turkish Airlines is usually very good.

Vegan meals in business class on Turkish Airlines can be quite disappointing. If you are thinking about upgrading your flight with Turkish Airlines, do it for the extra comfort.

Do not expect anything extraordinary about the vegan meal you will receive on board. It will probably be the same as in economy just served on a nicer plate.

We were not impressed by the vegan food we received on Turkish Airlines business class. It looked fancier than in economy but the taste and the ingredients were not worth the upgrade.

->You can check our detailed review of the food in Turkish Airlines business and economy class here.

QATAR AIRWAYS MEAL

Qatar Airways is one of the top airlines known for offering excellent service on board. They provide a vegan meal option, which typically includes vegetables, grains, lentils, or fruits.

As with most airlines, you’ll need to pre-book your vegan meal. Qatar Airways makes the process easy and hassle-free. You just need to do that at least 24 hours before your flight. 

On Qatar Airways, your food is served at the same time as other passengers, which is not the case on all airlines. On most flights, you will receive a main course followed by a light snack, depending on the length of the flight. For airline cuisine food on Qatar Airways is consistently creative and tastes great.

->Check our latest experience with Qatar Airways here.

They have also introduced a variety of tasty vegan dishes in Business Class. They have added them to their menu on all flights. Qatar Airways food is always creative and tastes great, especially for airline food.

If you have a stopover at Doha International Airport there is a vegan restaurant called Evergreen Organics. On their menu, you will find so many delicious plant-based food options that will make your travel day as easy as possible, and you won’t get hungry if you have a longer stopover. 

->Ready to travel? Click here for the best flight deals!

BANGKOK AIRWAYS MEAL

Bangkok Airways may not be as globally recognized as other airlines, but they certainly deserve a mention! They offer vegan meals as part of their special meal options, available on all flights. This is one of our favourite airlines to fly within Asia. Known as Asia’s Boutique Airline, they provide complimentary meals, beverages, and baggage allowances for all passengers.

Even on short flights, they offer a full-service experience, including inflight meals.

You can expect dishes like rice or noodles with vegetables, legumes, and plant-based proteins, along with fruit-based desserts or snacks. Remember to request your plant-based meal in advance to ensure you get it on your flight. You can also confirm your meal preference when checking in online or at the airport.

Click here to read about our latest experience with plant-based food on Bangkok Airways.

OTHER AIRLINES’ VEGAN MEALS

While these airlines stand out, we love that most others are catching up too! Providing vegan meals on board has become a standard practice in the airline industry, which is a great step forward. Whether you’re flying with a budget airline or a luxurious long-haul carrier, they’ll likely have a plant-based option available.

We absolutely love that this is the case, and it makes travelling as a vegan so much easier. In the future, we hope that there will be vegan options available on all flights and at all airports in the world.

So, next time you book a flight, do not hesitate to check if the vegan meal is available. Airlines are getting it right, and we’re here for it! We wish you safe and delicious travels!

->Find the best flight deals! Click here to book your trip now!

SEE ALSO:

Turkish Airlines – Vegan Meal Experience in Economy and Business Class

The post Best Airlines for Vegan Travellers: Top Vegan-Friendly Airlines for Stress-Free Travel appeared first on Vegan Friendly Travel.

1. BRING YOUR NOISE-CANCELLING HEADPHONES

When packing your carry-on, noise-cancelling headphones are a must. Although airlines often provide headphones on long-haul flights, they are usually of poor quality or not very comfortable for long hours.

With your noise-cancelling pair, you can block out the airplane’s ambient noise and enjoy your music, movies, or podcasts without interruptions. These headphones are particularly useful for sleeping or simply relaxing in a noisy cabin.

2. NECK PILLOW IS AN ESSENTIAL THING TO HAVE IN YOUR CARRY-ON

A good neck pillow can make all the difference when trying to get some rest on the plane. Choose an inflatable or memory foam option that supports your neck and is easy to pack.

When packing your carry-on, a neck pillow is a must-have for a comfortable journey. Without one, I often strain my neck while sleeping, waking up frequently as my head falls forward.

With so many options available on the market, find the one that suits you best. 

3. HAVE A SOFT SLEEP MASK

Blocking out light is key to sleeping or resting comfortably during your flight, no matter the cabin lighting. When packing your carry-on, make sure to include a quality sleep mask. Although airlines often provide sleep masks on long-haul flights, they are usually not the best quality.

Bringing your own ensures a better chance of getting some good sleep, especially on day flights when the cabin is often quite bright. Invest in a soft, comfortable sleep mask—it really makes a difference.

4. PUT SOME SANITISER WIPES IN YOUR CARRY-ON BAG

Airplane surfaces are often less than spotless. Sanitiser wipes are essential for keeping your hands clean and freshening up during the flight. When packing your carry-on, make sure sanitiser wipes are at the top of your list.

The first thing I usually do when I take my seat on the airplane is grab a wipe to clean the screen, armrests, and table. It makes me feel much more comfortable.

5. PACK HYDRATING SKINCARE ESSENTIALS

The dry air in the airplane cabin can be tough on your skin. Pack a small moisturiser, lip balm, and facial mist to keep your skin feeling fresh and hydrated throughout the flight. Sometimes airplane toilets provide a basic hand cream, but this is not always the case.

Hydrating skincare essentials should always be part of your carry-on. If your skin gets oily like mine, makeup wipes are also a great option to soak up excess oil.

6. BRING YOUR TOOTHBRUSH

On long-haul flights, you’ll often receive a toothbrush, but it’s wise to bring your own just in case. Packing your toothbrush is especially important when thinking about how to organise your carry-on bag. While it’s not essential for shorter flights, brushing your teeth before boarding can make a big difference in how refreshed and relaxed you feel.

I always take a moment to use the airport bathroom to brush my teeth before getting on the plane. I recommend you use bottled water to brush your teeth, just to be safe. 

7. PACK SNACKS IN YOUR CARRY-ON BAG

Airplane food can be hit or miss, so having some healthy snacks on hand is a smart move. When packing your carry-on, snacks are essential. While some airlines provide enough food to keep you full for the entire flight, others may not.

Bringing your own snacks helps you get through the long hours and can also be a lifesaver if you start feeling nauseous during the flight—a quick snack can help settle your stomach.

8. BRING ENTERTAINMENT AND READING MATERIAL

Bring a book, e-reader, or download movies, podcasts, or audiobooks to your devices. When packing your carry-on, make sure you have plenty of entertainment options. In-flight entertainment systems don’t always have what you want, so having your own ensures you stay entertained.

This is also useful when you have to be at the airport at least two hours before departure—you’ll have something to do while waiting to board.

9. DO NOT FORGET YOUR CHARGER

Never pack your phone or tablet charger in checked luggage. Keep it in your carry-on so you can charge your devices during the flight or while waiting for departure. When packing your carry-on, make sure essential items like chargers are included.

You don’t want to arrive in a new country with a low phone battery, as it’s crucial for navigating to your hotel.

Lately, we’ve noticed that charging your phone during a flight isn’t as easy as it used to be. Older planes may still have USB charging ports, but you can always charge your phone at the airport before boarding.

10. HAVE AN EXTRA LAYER OF CLOTHING

Airplane cabins can get chilly, so be sure to pack a lightweight sweater or scarf in your carry-on. This can also double as a blanket if needed. When packing your carry-on, consider the climate at your destination.

If you’re heading to a warmer climate, it’s a good idea to pack a pair of shorts in your hand luggage. That way, you can change as soon as you land and avoid overheating in your travel clothes. 

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This is just a short list of our top tips for must-haves in your carry-on bag. Of course, it’s also important to consider your personal needs. For example, if you never use headphones, perhaps earplugs would be a better choice to pack in your carry-on.

What to pack in your carry-on bag is very important for a comfortable journey. We also created a list of 10 essential tips for a comfortable long-haul flight. In this guide, we will help you choose how to dress, and what to bring on a long flight.

SEE ALSO:

Master Your Next Long-Haul Flight: 10 Essential Tips for a Comfortable Journey

The post Carry-On Bag Essentials: What to Pack for a Comfortable Journey appeared first on Vegan Friendly Travel.

Emirates is among the best airlines in the world. We have flown with them several times and are always impressed by the comfort, service quality, and vegan food options provided.

When flying with Emirates, we always choose the Vegan Meal (VGML). This is a Western-style vegan meal containing vegetables, fruits, legumes, cereals, and other vegan-friendly ingredients. It does not contain any animal products.

VEGAN MEAL ON BOARD

You can find an interesting article on the Emirates website about a 40% rise in demand for vegan cuisine on board. The biggest increase in consumption of vegan meals is in Economy Class. They also offer plant-based meals for their staff.

The news is that they have 300 vegan recipes they will start using in 2024 in their lounges and onboard their flights.

The article highlights uplifting facts about how more and more customers are requesting plant-based meals on Emirates flights. It also discusses the quality of ingredients they use and their sources.

An interesting fact from the website is that Emirates has been serving vegan meals since the 1990s. The best part of the Emirates website is that you can download two of their delicious vegan recipes served on board: Emirates Vegan Pistachio & Raspberry Fool and Emirates Polenta Cake. You can find the full article and the recipes on the Emirates website.

VEGAN FOOD IN EMIRATES ECONOMY CLASS

Vegan food on Emirates is one of our favourites among all the airlines we have flown with. You can tell they care about what they serve to their customers. We haven’t yet had the chance to indulge in their Premium Economy, Business, or First Class menu, but we definitely will in the future.

The vegan meal in Economy Class on Emirates usually includes a main course, salad, dessert, bread, and plant-based butter. There is also a light snack, which is a combination of a sandwich or wrap and a dessert.

OUR LATEST EXPERIENCE – VEGAN EMIRATES

One of the best parts of ordering a special meal is that you receive your food before everyone else.

On our latest Emirates flight, we were served delicious pasta with mushroom sauce, pearl barley salad with olive oil dressing, fruit, bread, and plant-based butter. This was one of our favourite on-board meals ever. Their vegan dishes are even better than we expected.

For a lighter snack, we received a sandwich with veggies and a vegan blueberry muffin. The muffin was the highlight of this meal.

On our return flight, we were served a hearty vegetable curry with rice and chickpea salad. For dessert, there were dried fruits. But our favourite part was a little extra snack: veggie sticks with a hummus dip. We were so happy with this little surprise.

Despite being in Economy Class, we were pleasantly surprised by the generous seat space, which allowed us to stretch out comfortably throughout the flight. The entertainment options were equally impressive. They offer a rich selection of movies, shows, and games to keep us entertained for hours.

For the later snack, we received a delicious wrap with hummus and vegetables, along with some fresh fruit for dessert.

As big foodies, we sometimes feel that vegan meals on different airlines are not that great and focus more on just providing the option rather than ensuring customer satisfaction. However, on Emirates, it truly feels like even dietary meals like vegan meals are in great hands, ensuring they are delicious.

->Ready to travel? Click here for the best flight deals!

SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES

On the Emirates website, you can also find uplifting information about their recycling initiatives. They recycle more than 500,000 kilograms of plastic and glass from their flights arriving in Dubai each year.

Their amenity kits are made from washable kraft paper, and the blankets in Economy Class are made from recycled materials. In their amenity kit, you will find socks, face mask, earplugs, toothbrush, and toothpaste.

Additionally, their digital menu in Economy Class saves 44 tonnes of paper per month.

They strive to enhance and expand their sustainable practices, and due to their global operations, every small change can make a significant impact. 

The staff on their flights are among the friendliest we’ve encountered compared to other airlines. This is one of the reasons why Emirates is one of our favourite airlines.

One tiny tip when flying with Emirates: before take-off, you might spot a stewardess carrying an instant camera around the cabin. If you have the opportunity, ask for a photo. They will take your picture and give it to you as a keepsake to take home.

EMIRATES STOPOVER PROGRAM IN DUBAI

Emirates offers a Dubai stopover when you fly with them, giving you the chance to take a short break during your journey. To enjoy this option, your trip must include a connecting flight in Dubai. They provide a wide range of hotels and apartments to choose from, allowing you to stay either by the beach or in the heart of the city.

This is the perfect option if you want to explore the beautiful city of Dubai. It also gives you the chance to enjoy some of the best vegan restaurants the city has to offer. Dubai is truly worth a visit, and flying with Emirates makes it easy to get there.

Additionally, Emirates runs a Dubai Connect program. If you have a long layover between flights, you may qualify for complimentary hotel accommodation or meals. However, this is only available if you have booked the shortest possible connecting time for your route but still face a long wait.

If you want to learn how to have the best flight experience, we’ve created two helpful guides for you. First, explore our guide on mastering your next long-haul flight. Then, check out our tips on what to pack in your carry-on bag for a more comfortable journey.

SEE ALSO:
Vegan Meal Above the Clouds: A Qatar Airways Experience in Economy Class

The post Taste the Skies: Vegan Delights on Emirates Economy Class appeared first on Vegan Friendly Travel.

On long-haul flights, some airlines provide a pillow, blanket, headphones, and an amenity kit. The amenity kit usually includes a sleep mask, socks, earplugs, a toothbrush, and toothpaste.

These items can make your travel day easier, but for the best experience, here are our top 10 travel tips for a long-haul flight:

1. BRUSH YOUR TEETH BEFORE BOARDING

This is a small trick, but one of the most important for me. Freshly brushed teeth can make anyone feel better and more relaxed. Before boarding, I always go to the airport bathroom and brush my teeth. This is especially helpful if you have a night-time long-haul flight.

So, don’t forget to bring your toothbrush and toothpaste in your carry-on luggage. And to be safe, use bottled water to wash your teeth at the airport and on the airplane. You can also brush your teeth in the air after a meal, but the space in the airplane toilet is very limited. It is best to brush your teeth before boarding your long-haul flight.

The same goes after landing. I always brush my teeth so I feel fresher in a new destination.

2. WEAR COMFORTABLE CLOTHES

This is my second-best long-haul tip. Wearing comfortable clothes can make a huge difference. Even sweatpants that are too tight around the belly can make your flight uncomfortable, especially if you tend to get bloated from airplane food.

I am always shocked when I see people wearing tight jeans on a 10-hour flight.

Wear very comfortable clothes and bring a hoodie to help cover your head from the air conditioning. It is also important to layer your clothing so you can adjust to the temperature differences when flying.

3. BRING WARM SOCKS ON YOUR LONG-HAUL FLIGHT

Because circulation in your legs worsens when sitting for a long time, your feet can get cold. If you keep your shoes on during the flight, you might not have this problem. However, I always use the provided slippers.

If you wear slippers and your feet get cold, you will be glad to have warm and fuzzy socks with you. But never walk around only in your socks because the airplane floors are not clean. Avoid going to the toilet without your shoes, because the floor there is extremely dirty, especially on a long-haul flight.

4. BRING A NECK PILLOW ON YOUR LONG-HAUL FLIGHT

This is an obvious tip, but it really makes a difference. Without a neck pillow, my whole body hurts because I strain my neck while sleeping, and I keep waking up as my head falls.

Many pillows are available on the market, so find the one that suits you best. If you forget to bring one, don’t worry, most airports sell neck pillows in their shops. 

5. BRING A SOFT SLEEP MASK

Most airlines provide a sleep mask on long-haul flights, but they are usually not of the best quality. If you want a good sleep, bring your own sleep mask. Buy a mask that is soft and does not feel too tight or too loose on your head. 

This is especially helpful on day flights because the cabin is often very bright, which makes it harder to sleep. Get yourself a comfortable sleep mask—it makes a huge difference.

6. BRING SNACKS ON YOUR LONG-HAUL FLIGHT

Some airlines provide enough food to keep you full for the entire flight, but many do not. Also, not every airline meal is the best. Sometimes the food can be really bad, or you accidentally sleep through the mealtime. Bring some snacks to help you endure the long hours.

This is also helpful if you get nauseous during a long-haul flight; having a quick snack can help settle your stomach.

7. SHOWER AND WASH YOUR HAIR BEFORE COMING TO THE AIRPORT

This tip is similar to brushing your teeth, but it really does make a difference. Even though your hair will get dirty on a long-haul flight, washing it beforehand will help you feel much better.

Take a shower at home or the hotel and wash your hair before your flight. You’ll feel better in your own skin, making your flight more comfortable. You will also look good with freshly washed hair. Maybe you will meet the love of your life on your next long-haul flight. 

8. BRING YOUR HEADPHONES

Most airlines provide headphones on long-haul flights, but they are not always of the best quality. If you have comfortable headphones, especially ones with noise cancellation, bring them along.

You’ll enjoy your long-haul flight much more with a good set of headphones. Just do not forget to take them with you when leaving the airplane.

9. ORDER A SPECIAL MEAL FOR YOUR LONG-HAUL FLIGHT

If you have food allergies or dietary preferences, most airlines now provide a variety of special meal options. You can request vegan, gluten-free, vegetarian meals, and more, depending on the airline.

It would be best if you chose your meal a few days before your long-haul flight, as it won’t be possible to do this on the same day. You can do this through the “manage your booking” section.

10. PACK ESSENTIAL MEDICATIONS

On a long-haul flight, I always bring some paracetamol, throat lozenges, and a saline spray. The strong air conditioning can give you a headache, a blocked nose, or a dry throat.

This can happen within the first hour of your long-haul flight, so imagine having a sore throat for the next 10 hours with nothing to ease it. Bring these essentials to make your flight more comfortable.

I hope that these tips will help you have the best travel experience on your next long-haul flight.

->Find the best flight deals! Click here to book your trip now!

We also created a list of the most essential carry-on bag items. You can check our guide on what to pack for a comfortable journey here.

SEE ALSO:

Turkish Airlines – Vegan Meal Experience in Economy and Business Class

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We always choose a strict vegan meal (VGML) that does not contain any animal products. We had the opportunity to experience vegan food in Turkish Airlines economy and business class.

VEGAN FOOD ON TURKISH AIRLINES – ECONOMY CLASS

The vegan breakfast is usually very good; however, on all our flights so far, it has remained the same. It includes two types of bread, one filled with spinach and the other with mushrooms.

You also get some fruit and a delicious vegan dessert made with nuts!

With your meal on Turkish Airlines, you have the option of coffee, tea, or other beverages. I am not sure if they offer vegan milk for coffee or tea, but it’s likely not available.

For vegan lunch and dinner, there is some variety. The food is okay, nothing special but we appreciate that it is an option.

Usually, there are some vegetables with rice, mushrooms, peas, chickpeas, spinach etc. The vegan main course on Turkish Airlines is usually served with some fruits and a salad.

If you are flying economy with Turkish Airlines, you will not be hungry, and the vegan meal is a great choice. The planes are clean and comfortable, providing a good amount of space.

VEGAN FOOD ON TURKISH AIRLINES – BUSINESS CLASS

It was our dream to fly business class with Turkish Airlines and we finally found an excellent deal for one of our recent trips.

It wasn’t their latest and upgraded business class; instead, it featured one of their more dated airplane seat designs. Nevertheless, we were impressed with the spacious and comfortable seats. It was a great option for our long flight with Turkish Airlines.

There is a chef on board, taking orders from passengers. Having pre-ordered a vegan meal a month before our flight, we didn’t need to peruse the menu, as it does not include vegan options.

When the chef approached us, he did not know what was on the vegan menu, so he simply informed us that there was a special appetiser, a special main course, and a special dessert. It was amusing to have a chef on board who does not know what he is “preparing” for you.

We enjoyed a satisfying appetizer with soup and salad. The main course featured couscous with chickpeas, and while it was okay, it didn’t quite wow us. It looked like a meal we usually get in economy class of Turkish Airlines, but served on a nicer plate. There was also a dessert and some fruit.

BREAKFAST IN BUSINESS CLASS

Breakfast, however, was less enjoyable. We got served some fruits as an appetiser but the main course was a mystery. It had no taste, and it was very sticky. This was one of the worst vegan meals we had on Turkish Airlines, especially considering the price tag of flying business class.

On our connecting business class flight with Turkish Airlines, they served us the same breakfast as we always get in economy class, just on a nicer plate. I must admit that this was a big disappointment.

If you are considering upgrading your flight with Turkish Airlines, do so for the added comfort, but do not expect anything extraordinary regarding the vegan meal on board. It will probably be the same as in economy just served on a nicer plate.

VEGAN FOOD AT THE TURKISH AIRLINES LOUNGE IN ISTANBUL

When we arrived at the Turkish Airlines business lounge at the Istanbul Airport it was packed. It was probably a rush hour, as only two seats were available in the entire lounge.

Although I wasn’t very hungry, I attempted to find something to snack on while waiting for our next flight. Unfortunately, there were no allergen tags near the food, making it unclear if items were vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, etc. I only took some olives because I was not sure if any other food there was vegan.

I think Turkish Airlines is an excellent airline, but there is room for improvement in their attention to vegan meal options in business class.

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TRAVEL KIT IN ECONOMY AND BUSINESS CLASS

Travel sets are offered on flights that are longer than 5 hours. The Economy Class travel kit includes a sleeping mask, socks, slippers, lip balm, earplugs, and a toothbrush with toothpaste. In Business Class, they offer body lotion and a face spray besides the already mentioned items.

Economy Class bags are becoming increasingly simpler in design, and toothbrushes are no longer made from plastic. Maybe in the future, they will also switch to paper bags to be more ecological.

TURKISH AIRLINES STOPOVER PROGRAM

When flying with Turkish Airlines and stopping over at Istanbul Airport, you have the chance to experience the city of Istanbul. To qualify for a free stay, your connection must be at least 20 hours.

If you’re flying in economy class, you’ll enjoy a complimentary night in a 4-star hotel. Business class passengers, on the other hand, can stay for two nights in a luxurious 5-star hotel.

Istanbul is packed with incredible sights to explore. You can visit iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the authentic Turkish coffee, available on almost every corner.

The best part about visiting Istanbul is that there are many amazing and delicious vegan restaurants to try. You can try traditional Turkish dishes and even enjoy fine dining. If you decide to explore Istanbul, make sure to check out our detailed guide to the best vegan restaurants in the city.

For those with a long layover but no plans to stay overnight, there’s another great option: Touristanbul. Turkish Airlines offers a complimentary guided tour of Istanbul, allowing you to explore the city and make the most of your time.

SEE ALSO:

Taste the Skies: Vegan Delights on Emirates Economy Class

The post Turkish Airlines – Vegan Meal Experience in Economy and Business Class appeared first on Vegan Friendly Travel.