Does anyone have any tips to improve the experience of long distance air travel?

What passengers can do: plan well and bring lots of diversions (books, crossword puzzles, music, etc), limit alcohol or avoid it all together (it dehydrates you), and get up and stretch and walk thru the cabin regularly.

- Organise yourself in advance.
- Dress appropriately.
- Pack lightly.
- Take snacks, books, music etc.
- Be patient.
- Be observant.
- Use good manners.
- Consider taking an antihistamine to combat travel sickness.
- Move about frequently in the cabin and perform in flight exercises.
- Take spare change for small purchases on stop overs along the way.
- Purchase water when air side to combat dehydration.