HOW TO COPE WITHOUT SMOKING ON LONG HAUL FLIGHTS

Long-haul flights can be horrifying for heavy smokers and can often bring about withdrawal symptoms, similar to how quitting smoking would make you feel. If you’re wondering whether you can smoke on long haul flights, you can bring cigarettes with you, as long as you don’t light up. In the UK, indoor smoking is not permitted; however, some airports have smoking rooms inside the terminal or designated smoking areas outside the departure level. Just because you can’t light up on a flight doesn’t mean you have to suffer in silence. With a little help from the experts at Boots, follow these practical flying tips for smokers on how to make your travels bearable, before and during long-haul flights.

START A PROGRAM

If there are long haul destinations you’ve always dreamed of visiting, don’t let your smoking habit compromise your holiday options. Get expert support as far in advance of your holiday as possible, and hopefully, by the time you fly the urge to smoke will be greatly reduced.

There are various Stop Smoking Programs available, including the NHS Stop Smoking Service and the Boots UK Smoke Less Plan. These use a combination of advice, support and smoking control products, and provide a structured approach on how to stop smoking.

You can also pick up a free NHS Quit Kit from participating Boots pharmacies. Booking your dream holiday can be a great incentive to start a program and kick the habit for good!

SMOKING CONTROL PRODUCTS

There are lots of smoking control products available that can help to curb those nicotine cravings. The Nicotine patch is available in various strengths and can be worn under clothes so that they’re not at all noticeable, whereas nicotine gum, lozenges and spray are taken orally and will give the user something else to do with their mouth other than drawing on a cigarette. Nicotine inhalers have the added benefit of being handheld and inhaled, like a cigarette, which is an action many smokers miss when trying to quit smoking.

All of the above smoking control products are available in the Boots NicAssist range, and when you sign up to the Boots UK Smoke Less Plan you’re able to switch between types of nicotine replacement therapy to find the one that suits you best, using the unique nicotine exchange service.

PRACTICAL TIPS

In addition to starting a Stop Smoking Program, there are lots of smoking control products available that can help to curb those nicotine cravings. The Nicotine patch is available in various strengths and can be worn under clothes so that they’re not at all noticeable, whereas nicotine gum, lozenges and spray are taken orally and will give the user something else to do with their mouth other than drawing on a cigarette. Nicotine inhalers are one of the best nicotine replacement for a long flight. They have the added benefit of being handheld and inhaled, like a cigarette, which is an action many smokers miss when trying to quit smoking. All of the above smoking control products are available in the Boots NicAssist range, and when you sign up to the Boots UK Smoke Less Plan, you’re able to switch between types of nicotine replacement therapy to find the one that suits you best, using the unique nicotine exchange service.

Avoid Alcohol

It’s common for travellers to indulge in a tipple or two at the airport or on-board their flight to mark the start of their sunny holiday, but if you’re a smoker this could lead to reaching for the cigarettes again. Alcohol and smoking can often go hand-in-hand and cravings for a cigarette can become worse once you’ve had a drink – it’s best to stick to the soft stuff if you want to keep the cravings to a minimum.

Swap Smoking for Snacks

Keeping your hands and mouth occupied is often the key to cutting down unwanted cravings. Hard-boiled sweets, mints or toffees are good choices as they take a while to suck on or chew – regular or nicotine gum is also a good option.

Keep Yourself Busy

Find something you enjoy doing that you can pick up and put down at a moment’s notice - sort of like a portable hobby – and keep it in your hand luggage during the flight. Whether it’s a good novel, puzzle book or video game, keeping yourself entertained during a long flight means your mind is engaged and your hands are busy!

Have A Nap

Feeling anxious can make the urge to smoke stronger, so it’s important to find other ways to relax while up in the air – and what better way is there to relax than taking a nap? Whether you take a pillow, don an eye mask or listen to calming music, snoozing through your long haul flights is sure to send any cravings on their way – so put on your comfies (preferably not pyjamas) and take a trip to the land of nod.

PLAN A REWARD

Before you land at your holiday destination, it can be helpful to think about the fantastic things you would like to experience. Whether it’s swimming with the dolphins or you want to take a helicopter ride, an amazing holiday is the ultimate treat for smokers.

Most of all, the best reward is patience and trust in yourself for overcoming those nicotine cravings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can someone avoid smoking when on holiday?

They can plan ahead by researching their destination, avoiding smoking areas, and booking non-smoking accommodation. Staying busy with activities and using healthy coping strategies can help manage cravings.

Why is it important for travellers to research their destination before travelling?

Many countries now have smoking bans in public places. Knowing local rules, finding non-smoking restaurants and bars, and requesting a non-smoking hotel room can help travellers stay on track with their smoke-free goals.

What can a person do if they get cravings on the plane?

Since smoking is banned on flights, planning in advance is essential. Bringing healthy snacks, keeping their hands occupied with puzzles or stress toys, and practising deep breathing or relaxation techniques can help manage cravings during the flight.

How does alcohol affect a person’s willpower to stay smoke-free?

Alcohol lowers self-control, making it easier to give in to cravings. Choosing mocktails or soft drinks instead, and staying mindful if drinking, can help maintain willpower and moderation.

What are effective ways to distract oneself from smoking?

Engaging in enjoyable activities such as swimming, hiking, or exploring local sights keeps the mind and body occupied. Staying active reduces idle moments when cravings are more likely to occur.

How can someone deal with friends or travel companions who smoke?

Travelling with non-smokers can make things easier. If companions smoke, asking them to be considerate by smoking away can help. Bringing something engaging — such as a good book, music, or taking a walk — can keep one occupied during cigarette breaks.

What should a person do if they feel tempted while relaxing on holiday?

Relaxation can sometimes trigger cravings. Using mindfulness or meditation helps acknowledge the craving without acting on it. Reminding themselves that the urge will pass with patience and focus supports staying smoke-free.

Why do holidays make it harder to quit smoking?

Holidays can bring both relaxation and stress — from travel delays to social temptations. Being aware of these triggers and having a plan to handle them helps prevent setbacks and maintain progress.

What can someone do to manage stress while on holiday?

Simple stress-relief methods such as deep breathing, light exercise, or yoga help calm the mind. Managing stress effectively makes it easier to resist the temptation to smoke when feeling anxious or bored.

How can a person stay motivated to remain smoke-free after a holiday?

They can celebrate their success in staying smoke-free while travelling and remind themselves of the health and lifestyle benefits achieved. Using the positive experience as motivation encourages continued success back home.