How to Survive Flying To Australia

So you've decided to holiday in Australia? The land "down-under" is awaiting your arrival, but it's an awfully long journey away, and getting there can be a nightmare within itself.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tickets
• Passport
• Visa
• Money

1. Decide on where your arrival airport will be. From the USA, there are only three possible arrival locations, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. With flying times that vary between twelve and eighteen hours, your need to be prepared for what awaits beyond the arrival lounge.

2. Most flights from the USA depart from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in the evening. The arrivals into Australia are timed for the morning peak hours, necessitating a very long overnight flight. If connecting from another flight, plan to arrive at LAX in the afternoon. Take a shower within the airport and change into the appropriate arrival clothes. Be aware that even during the middle of summer Melbourne can require three layers of clothes.

3. Prior to departure, avoid sleeping in the airport at all costs. The journey west and across the date line will affect your sleep patterns. It is far better to arrive slightly fatigued and ensure a good night rest the first day than to battle jet lag.

4. Get an aisle seat. You'll be traveling at night, and all three airports may be using approaches from over the sea. For the two minutes of window watching prior to arrival, you'll appreciate the in aisle seat, and being able to walk about the cabin when needed.

5. Upon arrival, you will have to pass through Customs and Quarantine. Both take a dim view of any foreign foods entering the country. Place your foodstuffs in the provided receptacles before disembarking.

Tips & Warnings

• Deep Vein Thrombosis has been known to cause death in rare cases. Period of inactivity may cause a clotting of the veins. While in flight, regularly exercise your toes and ankles to keep blood circulation.

[hannahbee]

on 10/19/2009 Great tips! I do LAX to Sydney all the time, and I know how important it is to avoid jet lag at all costs!

[aussie119]

on 4/23/2008 Best way to avoid that long haul DOWN UNDER is to break your trip in Hawaii or Japan. Use your airline miles to make HNL a free trip? Japan Airlines or ANA often throw in a free hotel night, if you flight does not connect with a southbound Oz flight. The Japanese 'shore leave' pass is one of the smartest ideas of world travel; it allows you 24 hours to take in the local sights without any immigration hassles.
When booking the Japanese airline be sure to ask for a flight that offers a free hotel room.
Using these travel tips, your Australia trip will be easy! Ahh Yankees, get orf ya backsides and see Aussie Down Under....another world away!