Surviving a Marathon in the Sky: My Journey from Cape Town to Australia

The Moment I Knew I Had to Go

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Every journey starts with a decision. 

Mine wasn’t for a vacation or an exciting adventure—it was a trip I knew I had to take, when I found out I’d be flying to Australia to see my mom, who is battling terminal pancreatic cancer. Reality hit hard. (I’ll share more about that in another post, but for now, let’s talk about the sheer mission of getting to her.)

The Dreaded Paperwork: Passports & Visas

Before I even set foot in an airport, I had to tackle the painfully slow process of securing my documents. And when I say painfully slow, I might actually be understating it.

The first hurdle was renewing my passport. Since international travel wasn’t on my radar, I hadn’t realized my passport was down to its final two months—making it invalid for travel.

As anyone who’s dealt with South African Home Affairs knows, the experience is an exercise in patience. I was box-breathing my way through it, reminding myself that this was just something I had to do. The process required two separate visits—one for the application and one for collection.

For the application, I arrived at Home Affairs at 7 AM, only to find an already impossibly long queue before the 8 AM opening. It was a test of endurance—I don’t think I left until around 3:30 PM. Talk about a day, right?

And just when I thought it was over, Murphy’s Law kicked in. A printing issue delayed my passport, adding another 10 days of waiting. As if I needed more stress during an already difficult time.

When my passport finally arrived, collection was thankfully smooth. Was the entire process long and frustrating? Absolutely. But at least it was done.

The Next Hurdle: The Visa Application

With my passport in hand, the next step was my Australian visa. Luckily, I had already been in touch with a visa agent in Cape Town, so I felt somewhat prepared. (Side note: If you’re applying for an Australian visa, I highly recommend using an agent to avoid the dreaded rejection letter!)

Compared to my passport renewal, I knew the visa process would be less of a nightmare, but the waiting period? Brutal.

First, you submit an online application. Then, you wait for an "invitation" from the local embassy to provide biometrics—and this is where the real waiting begins.

Some applicants get their visa back in 24 hours. Others? 21 days.

Why. Why. WHY.

I hate waiting—especially when there's no clear-cut timeline. Does a longer wait mean something’s wrong? Was there a problem? Each passing day sent me into a minor spiral.

Fortunately, after nine very long days, my visa was approved. To my relief, they granted me a 12-month multiple-entry visa, meaning if I needed to return, I could. Small victories.

Booking the Flight: Why Qantas?

Finding a flight that was both direct and affordable was surprisingly, an easy feat. Qantas, Australia's flagship airline, won in the end by a clear country mile, offering both the best value for money as well as the most direct route.
However, no matter what airline you choose, long-haul travel is no joke.

Leg 1: The Journey Begins (Cape Town → Johannesburg)

Domestic flights always feel deceptively easy—until you realize they’re just the warm-up for the real journey ahead.

It was an early start for Dylan (my fiancé) and I. My flight to Johannesburg was at 10:00 AM, and I wasn’t taking any chances—no hiccups, no mistakes, nothing that could jeopardize my later flight to Sydney. So, we left home at 7 AM. It was the last time I’d ever be in our Cape Town apartment (more on that in another blog post).

Looking back, I’m glad we gave ourselves extra time. It meant we could have a slower, more intentional morning at the airport—grabbing a coffee, sharing a muffin, and shedding many, many tears before saying goodbye for the next two months.

The domestic flight, serviced by Lift, was smooth and uneventful. I don’t have much to say about it—except that it really did feel like a warm-up before the big marathon ahead.

Leg 2: The Big One (Johannesburg → Sydney, 12 Hours in the Air)

Some people love it, others dread it—either way, there’s no escaping it.

Airport Experience: The Pre-Flight Chaos

OR Tambo International is a hub of activity—security checks, last-minute snacks, and the bittersweet moment of boarding.

I had a 4.5-hour layover in Johannesburg, which initially felt like the longest wait before the longest flight. But time slipped away, and before I knew it, I only had 50 minutes left before heading to my boarding gate.

After clearing security and passport control, I found myself on a mission: figuring out whether I qualified for entry into any of the airport lounges (stay tuned, I’m still not entirely sure). Most of my research took place in the general smoking lounge, where I sat puffing my vape and obsessively Googling whether I had access to the Shongololo Lounge—which I swear is new because I’d never seen it before.

By the time I realized I only had 50 minutes left, I decided food was the next priority. It was 4 PM, and all I’d had up to that point was half a blueberry muffin. I grabbed an extra water and a bagel, only to be hit with an absolutely criminal price tag—R250+ for airport food? Isn’t this supposed to be duty-free?!

Turns out, that was the least of my worries.

When I arrived at the boarding gate, I was met with an additional bag security check. Right in front of me stood a sign listing all prohibited items, including—you guessed it—the water and bagel I had just bought.

So, like a true airport survivalist, I inhaled the bagel in record time, handed the water over to airport staff, and braced myself for my third security check of the day. As I walked through, my mind fixated on one thing: how much water would they actually give me on this 12-hour flight? Was I about to experience peak dehydration at 40,000 feet?

Alas, we boarded. A small win: the seat next to me was empty, making the journey slightly more bearable. My flight neighbor—whose name I didn’t quite catch—was pleasant enough to sit next to for the next 12 hours.

In-Flight Entertainment: The Saving Grace

I was pleasantly surprised to see that Qantas has kept up with airlines like Emirates, offering a solid in-flight entertainment selection with endless options.

It reminded me of flying in my younger years, back when shorter flights (around 4 hours) had zero entertainment, and longer flights had only a handful of channels. You had to watch whatever was on, whenever they decided to play it. Thank God for technological advancements.

That being said, I was truly disappointed that there was no in-flight WiFi—especially so soon after saying goodbye to Dylan. All I wanted to do was talk to him. But it made sense. We were flying 12 hours over the ocean, without touching land once until Australia. The only way to have internet out there would be through Starlink… and honestly, I’m kind of relieved Qantas doesn’t have an affiliation with them.

Before leaving Cape Town, I had been watching Apple Cider Vinegar, the documentary about the fraud that is Belle Gibson. I made sure to download the remaining episodes onto my phone before boarding.

Once I finished those, I moved on to watching Aussie Shore on the in-flight entertainment. (Yes, they still make these. I was also shocked.) It was wildly entertaining—Australians truly have their own type of crazy (in the best way possible).

Halfway through the season, I realized I was clearly subconsciously preparing myself for Australia. From Apple Cider Vinegar to Aussie Shore—I was fully immersing myself before I even landed.

Food & Comfort: The Good, The Bad, & The Dehydration Panic

Airplane meals are always a gamble—and this flight was no exception.

The first service was a bottle of water (a mere 300ml) and some pretzels. I wanted to cry at the thought of surviving on that for 12 hours. I begged the air hostess for another bottle, which she kindly gave me, but let’s be real—600ml over 12 hours is not exactly peak hydration.

Next came dinner. I opted for the chicken dish, though there was also a chicken curry option. I can’t for the life of me remember what the beef dish was, but mine came with veggies and mash. Surprisingly decent, and it actually filled me up.

Dessert, oddly enough, was served separately from dinner—a first for me. The flight attendants rolled around a cooler full of Magnums (which is great, unless you’re me, because I almost never eat ice cream). So, I passed.

Throughout the night, while most passengers were asleep, the crew offered Tim Tams, tea, cheese, and crackers—a very Aussie selection. And then, at 2:30 AM South African time (or 12:30 PM Australian time), they decided it was time for breakfast. Neither of these times seemed remotely appropriate for eggs, but that’s what we got. One bite in, and I was done. No way was I eating more before landing in two hours.

Sleep Struggles: The Insomniac Chronicles

12 hours of tossing and turning.

It started with me realizing I had lost my sleeping pills. To this day, I’m not entirely sure if I even packed them, or if they simply disappeared into the void of my luggage. Either way, they were gone.

Even if I had them, sleep was going to be a challenge. I’m naturally an insomniac, and the stress of flying halfway across the globe wasn’t exactly helping. I tried multiple times to switch off, but ultimately, I managed a grand total of two hours of restless, broken sleep—constantly interrupted by my own discomfort and the general movement of the plane.

If anyone has tips for sleeping on long-haul flights… don’t be shy, please share them.

Leg 3: Welcome to Australia! (Sydney → Brisbane)

Touching down in Sydney might feel like the finish line, but if you’re heading further into Australia, the journey isn’t over just yet.

Strict Border Control: Australia Doesn’t Play

Australia is known for its intense security measures, and, of course, I was singled out for a bag check. They wanted to ensure I wasn’t bringing anything in that needed to be declared—or worse, wasn’t allowed at all.

I won’t lie, I was a bit disappointed that the infamous TV show Border Security wasn’t filming that day. But I was also very pleased with myself for packing only clothes—nothing remotely questionable—so I was through pretty quickly.

Sydney Airport: A Mini Adventure

Sydney’s airport is… interesting. After clearing customs, I had to collect my baggage and hop on a bus to the domestic terminal—which was at least 5km away. At one point, I genuinely questioned whether I was heading in the right direction. Thankfully, I wasn’t feeling shy that day, so I asked every uniformed worker I saw to confirm I was in fact going the right way.

Once I finally made it to the domestic terminal, I checked my bag in and bee-lined to the nearest coffee shop for an iced coffee. It was probably around 5 AM in South Africa, but already 2 PM in Sydney—my body had no idea what time it was supposed to be.

Final Domestic Hop: Sydney → Brisbane

After a 14-hour flight, a 1.5-hour domestic hop might seem like a breeze, but at this point, exhaustion was hitting differently.

One small win? We were given a somewhat healthy snack—a feta cheese dip with carrots and crackers. I demolished the carrots and dip, but the cracker was a bit too adventurous for me… multigrain with all sorts of seeds. Maybe next time.

The flight itself was stunning. I had my head glued to the window, soaking in all the beautiful scenery below.

Finally, Brisbane!

Landing in Brisbane felt like the weight of the world lifting off my shoulders. Unlike Sydney, you collect your bag before going through security, which meant no extra waiting—just straight to arrivals.

And there they were—Mom and Steve, waiting patiently with a Welcome to Brisbane sign and a Koala balloon. (Side note: The Koala balloon is still floating around the house, fully helium-filled, eight days later).

The Last Stretch: Driving to Caloundra

Even after reaching Brisbane, I wasn’t home yet.
A final drive to Caloundra (around an hour from Brisbane) meant another stretch of travel, but finally, around 20h00, the journey was over and I had arrived at my moms place, safe and sound. 

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What I Learned About Long-Haul Travel

After spending a whole day in transit, here’s what I can say for sure:

Pack Smart: Packing smart for a long-haul flight can make the journey much more comfortable and stress-free. Here are some essential tips:

Carry-On Essentials

1. Important Documents – Keep your passport, visa, travel insurance, and boarding passes easily accessible. A travel wallet can help keep things organized.
   
   

2. Medication & Health Items – Bring any prescription meds in their original packaging, plus pain relievers, anti-nausea pills, and basic first aid (band-aids, motion sickness tablets, etc.).
   
   

3. Sleep Kit – An eye mask, neck pillow, noise-canceling headphones, and earplugs can significantly improve rest on long flights.
   
   

4. Entertainment – Download movies, shows, music, podcasts, and e-books before your flight. Airline entertainment can be unpredictable!
   
   

5. Chargers & Power Bank – Make sure all your devices are charged, and pack a power bank (most airlines allow them in carry-on but check specific restrictions).
   
   

6. Snacks & Water – Airport food is expensive, and inflight meals might not be great. Pack protein bars, nuts, or dried fruit for quick energy. (Also, empty your water bottle before security and refill it before boarding to stay hydrated - sadly, this did not help me on my particular flight, as we were not even allowed to take our own water onto the Qantas flight. I don’t think this was a Qantas rule, but rather an Australian one).
   
   

7. Hygiene Kit – Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, facial wipes, moisturizer, lip balm (airplane air is dry), and hand sanitizer. - don’t worry if you forget your toothbrush and toothpaste, though. On overnight flights they usually give you a little vanity kit.
   
   

Packing for Comfort

8. Dress in Layers – Planes can be freezing or too warm. A light sweater, scarf, or jacket helps regulate temperature.
   
   

9. Compression Socks – These help with circulation and prevent swollen feet, especially on long flights.
   
   

10. Comfortable Shoes – Opt for slip-on shoes or sneakers that are easy to remove at security and comfortable for walking.
    
    

Checked Luggage Tips

11. Roll, Don’t Fold – Rolling your clothes saves space and prevents wrinkles.
    
    

12. Use Packing Cubes – They keep things organized and make unpacking easier.
    
    

13. Keep Essentials in Your Carry-On – Never pack valuables, important documents, or anything you’ll need immediately in your checked luggage (just in case it gets delayed or lost).
    
    

14. Bring a Change of Clothes – A fresh set of clothes (or at least underwear and socks) in your carry-on can be a lifesaver after a long flight.
    

Hydrate & Move: 

Staying hydrated and moving during a long flight is essential for both comfort and health. Here’s why:

Benefits of Staying Hydrated

1. Prevents Dehydration – Airplane cabins have extremely low humidity levels (around 10-20%, compared to 40-60% in most homes), which can dry out your skin, throat, and eyes.

2. Reduces Fatigue & Jet Lag – Dehydration can worsen jet lag, leaving you feeling extra sluggish and disoriented when you land.

3. Supports Circulation – Drinking enough water helps maintain blood flow and reduces the risk of blood clots, particularly on long-haul flights.

4. Improves Digestion – Flying can slow digestion and lead to bloating or constipation; water helps keep things moving.

5. Boosts Immune Function – A well-hydrated body is better at fighting off germs, which is crucial when stuck in close quarters with hundreds of people.

🔹 Tip: Drink at least 250ml (one cup) of water per hour and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol, which can dehydrate you.

Benefits of Moving During a Flight

1. Prevents Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) – Sitting for long periods can slow circulation and increase the risk of blood clots, especially in the legs. Regular movement helps prevent this.

2. Reduces Swelling – Long periods of sitting can cause fluid retention, leading to swollen ankles and feet. Stretching and walking help counteract this.

3. Eases Stiffness & Aches – Moving reduces tension in the muscles and joints, making it easier to stay comfortable during and after the flight.

4. Boosts Energy Levels – Light movement can help reduce fatigue and keep your body feeling more awake.

Tip: Try to stand up and walk around every 2-3 hours, even if it’s just to stretch near the restroom or do simple in-seat exercises like ankle circles, foot flexes, and shoulder rolls.

Entertainment is Key:

Having the right personal entertainment can make a long-haul flight fly by (pun intended 😉). Here are some great options to keep you occupied:

Audio Entertainment

• Podcasts & Audiobooks – Perfect for when your eyes need a break. Download a mix of light and deep content.

• Music Playlists – Create different playlists (relaxing, energizing, nostalgic) to match your mood.

• Meditation & Sleep Sounds – If you struggle to sleep, apps like Calm or Headspace can help.

Visual Entertainment

• Movies & TV Shows – Download favorites on Netflix, Disney+, or Prime in case the in-flight options aren’t great.

• Documentaries – A great way to learn something new while traveling.

• YouTube Videos – Save some travel vlogs, TED Talks, or comedy clips offline.

Reading Material

• E-books – Kindle or an e-reader is a space-saver. Have a mix of fiction and non-fiction.

• Magazines & Articles – Download articles from Medium, Pocket, or your favorite blogs.

• Physical Book – If you prefer turning pages, a lightweight paperback is a great choice.

Games & Interactive Fun

• Mobile Games – Puzzle games, adventure stories, or even offline card games work well.

• Nintendo Switch or Tablet Games – If you enjoy gaming, a small device can be a lifesaver.

• Sudoku, Crosswords & Journaling – A great way to pass the time and keep your mind engaged.

Creative Activities

• Journaling – Document your trip, thoughts, or goals.

• Sketching or Coloring – If you enjoy art, bring a sketchpad or an adult coloring book.

• Writing – Work on a blog post, short story, or any creative writing project.

Pro Tip: Bring noise-canceling headphones, a power bank, and an eye mask to make the experience even better!

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Australia’s Border Control is No Joke: (Tips for first-time travelers to Australia.)

Australia has some of the strictest border control and security measures in the world, so it’s important to be prepared to avoid any unnecessary delays or fines. Here are some first-time travel tips for navigating Australian border control smoothly:

Before You Fly: Know the Rules

✅ Apply for Your Visa in Advance – Most travelers need an eVisitor visa (subclass 651/600) or an ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) before entering Australia. Make sure yours is approved before your trip.

✅ Declare Everything – Australia has zero tolerance for undeclared biosecurity risks. If you’re unsure about something, declare it on your Incoming Passenger Card to avoid fines.

✅ Check Banned & Restricted Items –
❌ No fresh food, fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, or homemade meals.
❌ No soil-contaminated items (e.g., dirty hiking boots, camping gear).
❌ Certain medications require a prescription or approval.

✅ Be Ready for Additional Security – Australia takes border security seriously, so expect more thorough bag checks than in many other countries.

Arrival: What to Expect at Australian Border Control

🔹 Incoming Passenger Card – Before landing, you'll receive this form. Be honest when filling it out.

🔹 Baggage Scanning & Sniffer Dogs – Your bags will likely be screened, and trained dogs check for food, drugs, and prohibited items.

🔹 Random Bag Checks – Even if you have nothing to declare, you may be selected for additional screening. Stay calm and cooperative.

🔹 Declare Over $10,000 AUD – If you're carrying large amounts of cash, you must declare it upon arrival.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Entry

✔ Know Your Address in Australia – You might be asked where you're staying (hotel, Airbnb, relative’s house).
✔ Have Your Return Ticket Ready – Border officers may ask for proof that you plan to leave.
✔ Be Polite & Honest – Australian border officers are strict but professional. Stay respectful and follow instructions.

🚨 Remember: If in doubt, declare it! It’s much better to have an item inspected than to risk a fine or getting into trouble with customs.

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Final Thoughts

Long-haul travel is not for the faint of heart, but when the reason is important enough, you power through.
This journey was exhausting, emotional, and at times frustrating—but it was worth every second.

If you’re planning a long-distance trip soon, I hope this helps you prepare. And if you’ve done a similar trip before, I’d love to hear—what are your best survival tips for long-haul flights?