Has the flight time to Australia or New Zealand kept you from booking that dream vacation? We’ve heard many travelers hesitate because the flight is too long. Swain’s own Katie Manly recently made the journey to New Zealand and she’s here to tell you why the flight is juuust right.
I was able to get some work done, have a fabulous dinner, get eight hours of sleep, and wake up to a full breakfast. I don’t even get that at home!
The Flight to Australia
The nonstop flight to Sydney, Australia (SYD) from Los Angeles (LAX) is approximately 15 hours. Your flight will most likely take off late in the evening and, having crossed the International Date Line, arrive in Australia two calendar days later early in the morning.
The Flight to New Zealand
The nonstop flight to Auckland, New Zealand (AKL) from Los Angeles (LAX) is approximately 13 hours and nonstop from New York (JFK) is approximately 19 hours. Like, the flight to Australia, you will most likely take off late in the evening and arrive in New Zealand two days later in the morning.
5 Reasons Why the Flight is Just Right
- On a flight ranging from 13 to 18 hours, you’ll have plenty of time to work, read, watch movies, dine, and sleep. Alternatively, shorter international flights (~8 hours) don’t have enough time to eat and sleep, meaning something is sacrificed along the way.
- Most flights from the U.S. arrive in Australia or New Zealand in the morning. You’ll arrive ready to hit the ground running after a long rest and filling breakfast.
- The dining options on flights to Australia and New Zealand are excellent. Shout out to Air New Zealand and Qantas on their local and seasonal menus!
- Wine, beer, and cocktails are included! So is water, so be sure to consume wisely.
- Kits, including toothbrush and toothpaste, an eye mask, ear plugs, and other amenities, as well as pillows and blankets (and PJs in Business class!), are often provided to aid in your comfort.
Below is an ideal timeline for your travels. Be sure to drink plenty of water along the way! The Australian wine will be tempting (and you should definitely indulge a little if you’re so inclined!), but hydration will save the day in the long run.
- Hour 1: Get settled; select your meal.
- Hours 2-3: Enjoy your dinner; watch a movie, read, or get those last work to-dos done before vacation.
- Hours 4-12: Take a walk up and down the aisles, then get some rest.
- Hours 13-15+: Enjoy breakfast; take another walk; get a few more z’s; freshen up in the bathroom.
- Upon arrival: When you book with Swain Destinations, you will be greeted by a representative to help you navigate the airport and find your ground transportation.
- Day 1: Stay awake until at least 9pm to stave off jet lag.
Australia/New Zealand Flight Partners
Our travel partner, Qantas, offers a variety of seat selections, including First Class, Business, Premium Economy, and Economy. They also offer a “Neighbour Free” option that may allow you to purchase your neighboring seat for a small fee. Qantas is part of the oneworld program, which allows you to earn rewards with partnering airlines. Plus, you have the option to book Round the World travel with partnering airlines to create the ultimate itinerary.
Our travel partner, Air New Zealand, offers a variety of long-haul seat selections, including Business Premier, Premium Economy, Economy Stretch, and Economy. They also have a unique offering called Economy Skycouch, which transforms the row into a couch. This is a fun and economical way to add a little luxury to Economy!
Have we convinced you that the flight to Australia or New Zealand is just right? Start perusing all that Australia and New Zealand have to offer, and talk with your travel consultant about creating your custom travel itinerary. And stay tuned for Katie’s blog on why the flight to New Zealand is so worth it!
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