SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The San Francisco 49ers got instructions for how to prepare for the longest road trip in NFL history as they get set to depart the Bay Area for Melbourne, Australia, late Wednesday night for the season opener against the Los Angeles Rams next week.

To start their march to the Big Game at their home stadium in Inglewood early next year, they will take on division rivals the 49ers on the other side of the world in Australia next Thursday. While it won't be easy, the matchup looks very winnable for the Rams because the availability of San Francisco stars George Kittle and Nick Bosa is unclear.

The San Francisco 49ers are flying to Australia on an impressive airplane that should make the lengthy flight easier.

George Kittle is trying to return from a torn Achilles by NFL Week 1. He is traveling with the 49ers to Australia, giving him a chance to play.

George Kittle and Nick Bosa made the flight to Australia with the San Francisco 49ers, fueling hopes both stars will suit up against the Rams on Sept. 10.

There was a quartet of San Francisco 49ers stars who were back on the practice field before the team's flight to Melbourne, Australia.

Though the Rams have had marketing rights in Australia since 2021, the 49ers are the most popular team Down Under.

San Francisco 49ers defensive end Keion White is hoping that getting plenty of sleep will help him combat jet lag when the Niners travel to Australia for their season-opening game against the Los Angeles Rams.