20 Travel Must Haves For Long Flights
Traveling is an adventure, and flying is often the fastest way to get to your destination, especially for international trips. But let’s face it, spending hours inside a plane can be uncomfortable. The key to making your long journey more enjoyable is preparing and bringing the right items. So today, I’m sharing a roundup of travel must haves for long flights that will make your experience more pleasant.
Travel Must Haves For Long Flights
I’ve found that these 20 travel must haves for long flights are essential for making any journey more comfortable and enjoyable. Each item has a specific purpose, from helping you sleep on a plane with a cozy neck pillow to keeping you entertained with noise canceling headphones. By packing these essentials, you’ll be prepared for whatever your long haul flight may bring.
How To Pack For A Long Haul Flight
When I’m packing for a long haul flight, I always start with a packing list to make I have everything I need. I’m a BIG list girl.
I dress in layers for comfort and pack my in-flight essentials in an easy-to-access carry-on bag. Following these tips makes my long journeys more manageable and helps me feel more prepared and relaxed.
Start with a Packing List
Creating a packing list is a good idea to ensure you don’t forget anything important. List all your travel essentials, including clothes, gadgets, toiletries, and, of course, your travel must haves for long flights.
Stay Hydrated
Airplane cabins can be quite dry, so staying hydrated is crucial. Bring a reusable water bottle that you can fill up after passing through security. Drinking plenty of water helps keep jet lag at bay and keeps your skin from drying out.
Dress in Layers
Airplane temperatures can fluctuate, so dressing in layers is a smart move. Wear comfortable clothing that you can easily add or remove as needed.
Keep Essentials Accessible
Pack your in-flight essentials in a carry-on bag that is easy to access. Items like your passport, boarding pass, lip balm, and portable charger should be within reach.
I also personally love natural remedies for motion sickness because they’re effective without the side effects of medication, making travel more comfortable. They’re also easy to bring on flights, offering quick relief – especially when turbulence hits!
20 Travel Must Haves For Long Flights
Noise Canceling Headphones
Noise canceling headphones are a game changer for long flights. They help block out the noise of the plane and other passengers, allowing you to relax and maybe even sleep on a plane. As someone who gets major in flight anxiety, this is at the top of my list because it blocks out all the airplane sounds to the point where I’m able to sleep! Brands like Bose and Sony offer top-notch options
Neck Pillow
A comfortable neck pillow is a must for sleeping on a plane. It supports your neck and helps prevent stiffness. Look for one that’s easy to carry and inflatable for convenience.
Eye Mask
An eye mask is essential for blocking out light, helping you get some rest even if the cabin lights are on. It’s a small but mighty addition to your travel essentials.
This is the mask I use, it’s so comfortable and 100% light blocking!
Travel Blanket
Airplanes can get chilly, so having a travel blanket can make a big difference. Opt for a lightweight, compact blanket that fits easily in your carry-on.
This one comes with a small bag so it fits right in your carry on and is so comfy! You can even use the bag as a pillow.
Compression Socks
Compression socks are important for long flights to help improve circulation and reduce the risk of swelling and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Portable Charger
A portable charger ensures your devices stay powered throughout your flight. This is especially useful for long haul flights where in-flight charging might not be available.
Travel Pillow
In addition to a neck pillow, a versatile travel pillow can provide extra comfort. Look for one that can be used in different positions and is easy to pack.
Lip Balm
Cabin air can be very drying, so having a good lip balm is essential to keep your lips hydrated and prevent chapping.
My favorite non-tox lip balm on Amazon is Kind Lips!
Moisturizing Lotion
A small bottle of moisturizing lotion can help keep your skin from drying out during the flight. Opt for a travel-sized option that’s easy to carry.
This one is travel size, fragrance and tox free!
Snacks
Airplane food can be hit or miss, so packing your favorite snacks is a great idea. Healthy options like nuts, fruit, and granola bars can keep you satisfied.
Reusable Water Bottle
As mentioned earlier, staying hydrated is crucial, so bring a reusable water bottle to refill throughout the flight.
Entertainment
Bring a book, tablet, or e-reader to help pass the time. Download movies, music, or podcasts beforehand so you have plenty of options.
Travel-Sized Toiletries
Pack travel-sized toiletries like toothpaste, a toothbrush, and deodorant to freshen up during the flight.
Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is a must for keeping your hands clean, especially in the confined space of an airplane.
Face Mask
With current health considerations, consider having a comfortable face mask is important for your safety and the safety of others. I still wear masks, only on a plane (5 of my friends came home from our trip to the Sphere with Covid, ugh!)
Wet Wipes
Wet wipes are handy for quick clean-ups and for freshening up during the flight.
A Change of Clothes
Having a change of clothes in your carry-on can be a lifesaver if your luggage gets delayed or you want to freshen up before landing.
Pen
Always carry a pen to fill out customs forms and other necessary paperwork during your flight.
Travel Documents Organizer
Keep your passport, boarding pass, and other important documents organized and easily accessible with a travel document organizer.
Like this awesome one!
Medications
If you take any medications, be sure to bring enough for the duration of your trip, plus a little extra in case of delays.
These travel must haves for long flights can make your next international flight more comfortable and enjoyable. Don’t forget to check out our toddler travel essentials and solo travel essentials for more great travel tips.
Happy travels!
