Flying long distances can take a toll on your body, but with a few simple tips, you can minimize discomfort and stay healthy during your flight. Here's how to take care of yourself while in the air:

Hydration is Key

Keeping hydrated is one of the most important things you can do while flying. Airplane cabins have low humidity, which can cause dehydration, so it's essential to drink plenty of water throughout the flight.

While it's tempting to enjoy coffee or alcohol, it’s best to keep these to a minimum as they can dehydrate you further. Additionally, fizzy drinks can cause bloating due to the gas expansion in your stomach as the altitude increases, leading to discomfort.

Mind Your Food Choices

Eating light, easily digestible meals is crucial for maintaining comfort during your flight. Fatty foods and heavy carbohydrates can make digestion difficult and may leave you feeling sluggish. Listen to your body—eat only when you're hungry, and choose options that won't weigh you down. This helps prevent feeling overly full or bloated during the flight.

Dress Comfortably

Comfortable clothing can make all the difference on a long flight. Avoid tight clothing and shoes, as they can restrict circulation and cause discomfort. Opt for loose-fitting, breathable garments and comfortable shoes to ensure you feel at ease. Layer your clothing so that you can adjust to temperature changes both in the cabin and upon arrival at your destination.

Prioritize Sleep

Sleep is vital, especially during long flights. Try to rest during the journey, especially on longer legs of the flight. Short naps are also beneficial for reducing fatigue and combating jet lag. To improve your chances of sleep, lower the window blinds, wear an eye mask, and ask for a pillow. While sleeping aids might seem tempting, it's advisable to avoid sedatives as they can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Stay Active

Deep vein thrombosis is a concern on long-haul flights, but you can reduce your risk by staying active. Take regular walks around the plane and airport terminals. Even while seated, you can help promote circulation by rotating your ankles and flexing your leg muscles. Some airlines provide suggested exercises in the in-flight magazine to further assist with this.

Combat Dry Skin

Cabin air can be incredibly dry, leading to skin and eye discomfort. To prevent this, keep moisturising your face, lips, and eyes regularly during the flight. You might want to consider using spectacles instead of contact lenses, as the dry air can cause lenses to dry out. If you do wear contacts, make sure to bring a lens case and saline solution.

Managing Ear and Sinus Pressure

Flying with a cold or flu can make ear and sinus pressure especially painful. To alleviate discomfort, use a nasal decongestant spray before take-off and landing to help clear your airways. Chewing gum or sucking on mentholated sweets during ascent and descent can also help equalize pressure in your ears, making the experience more comfortable.

Handling Jet Lag

Jet lag typically occurs when you fly across three or more time zones, causing your internal body clock to fall out of sync with your destination’s time zone. Symptoms can include fatigue, poor sleep quality, irritability, and digestive discomfort. Jet lag is generally worse when flying eastward, but there are several strategies to reduce its effects:

• Pre-adjust your schedule: If you're flying eastward, start going to bed earlier before your trip, or stay up later if you're heading westward. This will help your body begin adjusting to the new time zone.

• Set your watch to your destination time as soon as you board the plane and stick to that schedule for sleeping and waking.

• Avoid caffeine and alcohol during the flight, as they can disrupt sleep patterns.

• Schedule a stopover if possible, to give your body a chance to gradually adjust.

• Take a walk in daylight upon arrival to help reset your body clock.

• Give yourself time to rest during the first 24 hours after arrival to avoid making any important commitments while your body adjusts.

• Consider mild sleeping tablets for the first one or two nights to help you sleep while you acclimate to the new time zone.

By following these tips, you'll be better equipped to handle the physical challenges of flying and ensure that you arrive at your destination feeling as refreshed and comfortable as possible.

Qatar Airways has announced that it will operate a reduced number of flights between 18 March and 28 March 2026, as part of a temporary adjustment to its schedule. The airline confirmed that select destinations are now available for booking through its official website, mobile application, and authorized travel agents.

To support passengers during this period, the airline has introduced simplified options for managing travel plans. Customers can modify their bookings independently through the “Manage Booking” feature on the Qatar Airways website. In addition, travellers can access personalised assistance via the airline’s live chat service to rebook onto available flights.

For those whose travel plans have changed, Qatar Airways has also made the refund process more accessible. Passengers may request a refund for the unused portion of their ticket by submitting an online application form.

The airline has advised customers to check the latest updates and seek booking-related assistance through its official travel updates page: http://qatarairways.com/travelupdates.

Passengers traveling from Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha have been urged to follow updated arrival recommendations aimed at improving operational efficiency and reducing congestion at the terminal. Authorities have advised that travelers should not arrive at the airport more than four hours prior to their scheduled departure time.

Officials stressed that only passengers with confirmed flight bookings should make their way to the airport, underscoring the importance of avoiding unnecessary crowding in departure areas. The advisory comes as part of broader efforts to ensure a smoother and more organized travel experience for all passengers.

Travelers are also being encouraged to check the status of their flights before leaving for the airport. This can be done through the Qatar Airways official website or its mobile application, allowing passengers to stay informed about any schedule changes or updates.

The airport’s guidance highlights a continued focus on maintaining efficient passenger flow while ensuring that facilities are used effectively, particularly during peak travel periods.

Winter is one of the most popular seasons for travel, offering comfortable weather and a festive atmosphere. With schools closed and holidays in full swing, many families and groups plan trips during this time. However, a successful journey depends not only on the destination but also on proper preparation.

Here is a comprehensive guide to winter travel preparation:

Selecting Your Destination

Before traveling, decide where to go based on your budget, trip duration, travel companions, and preferences—whether you enjoy mountains, beaches, forests, or rivers. Also consider the facilities available at your destination.

Choosing Transportation

Selecting the right mode of travel is crucial. Options include bus, train, plane, or private vehicle. During peak seasons, trains or flights may be more convenient to avoid heavy traffic. Safety should always be the top priority.

Booking Accommodation

Accommodation plays a key role in your travel experience. Choose a place based on your budget, group size, comfort level, and security. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during holidays when demand is high.

Do Proper Research

Research your destination thoroughly. Make a list of places to visit, understand the weather, and gather information about emergency services such as hospitals, police stations, and tourist helplines. If possible, connect with locals for better insights.

Packing Essentials

Pack according to your destination and trip length. Avoid overpacking and focus on essential items. Prepare a checklist to ensure you don’t forget important belongings.

Winter Clothing Guide

Wear warm, insulated clothing suitable for cold weather. Items such as scarves, gloves, socks, and caps are useful. Choose comfortable and lightweight outfits, and consider the environment and culture when selecting clothes.

Carry Important Devices

Take essential gadgets like your mobile phone, charger, power bank, and camera. Additional items such as a flashlight, extra batteries, and adapters can be helpful, especially in remote areas.

Health and Medication

Winter travel can lead to common illnesses like colds, fever, or digestive issues. Carry basic medicines, first aid supplies, and personal prescriptions. Also use sunscreen and skincare products to protect against dryness and sun exposure.

Budget Planning

Plan your travel budget in advance and keep extra funds for emergencies. Use secure payment methods such as debit or credit cards and mobile banking. Carry small denominations for convenience.

Food and Hygiene

Choose hygienic food options and try local cuisine for an authentic experience. Avoid overly oily or unhealthy foods, and carry dry snacks and safe drinking water.

Keep Important Items Handy

Always carry essential items such as identification documents, copies of important papers, extra cash, and a water bottle.

Safety Measures

Stay alert during travel. Keep valuables secure, avoid unknown areas at night, and be cautious with strangers. Inform family members about your travel plans and location.

Additional Practical Tips

• Plan your daily itinerary to save time
• Travel in groups for better safety and cost-sharing
• Check your vehicle before long trips
• Avoid peak travel periods to reduce expenses
• Keep emergency contact numbers accessible
• Label your luggage with your name and contact details

With careful planning and the right precautions, winter travel can be both enjoyable and stress-free. A well-prepared journey ensures comfort, safety, and unforgettable memories.

Qatar Tourism has confirmed that visitors impacted by recent travel disruptions will continue to receive complimentary hotel accommodations until March 14, 2026, providing additional time for travelers to arrange their return journeys.

The extension is part of a temporary support initiative introduced to assist tourists whose travel plans were affected by exceptional circumstances. The program ensures that eligible visitors have a safe and comfortable place to stay while they work on securing alternative flights.

Under the measure, travelers whose flights were canceled or disrupted from February 28 onward have been granted extended stays in licensed hotels across Qatar. The support package includes accommodation in the same room category as their original booking, along with three daily meals.

The initiative is being implemented through coordination between Qatar Tourism and local hospitality partners to ensure affected visitors receive necessary assistance during the disruption period.

Visitors are expected to complete their travel arrangements by March 14. Those needing further support are advised to contact their hotel concierge or reach out to the Qatar Tourism hotline at 106