Guest Post: How to Survive the Long Flight to America from New Zealand A flight to America can vary from 12 to 18 hours, depending on the departing and arriving cities. If the thought of spending this much time on a plane makes you uneasy, do not worry -- this is natural! That is a long time to spend in a confined space. However, you can learn how to survive the long flight to America. Fortunately, many airlines have become aware of how fatiguing this flight can be. Some airlines have started upgrading their cabins to be more conducive to over-seas flights . Some airlines feature complete sleeper units, while others have added TVs with a selection of games and movies. Minimize Discomfort by Planning Ahead Before you even arrive at the airport, begin to adjust your eating and sleeping schedules for your destination time. According to Victoria Ross, writer for USA Today and travel enthusiast, many airlines help with this process by closing shades and dimming lights while in the departure city. By beginning to adjust your sleep schedule ahead of time, you will greatly minimize jetlag and adjust to the new destination's schedule with ease. Sleeping on the plane during the flight is ideal; however sleep may evade you. Prepare a contingency plan for the long flight, such as a book or game. Also bring a light meal to eat around the same time that people at your destination will be eating their meals. Ross suggests that you