You booked your trip hopefully using our Skyscanner tips and you’re so excited to start your next adventure however the only thing standing between you and paradise is that long haul flight. Thus, have no fear because we are here to make that long flight fly by like a snowcone melting in hell, with our long flight essentials list.
For some, like Christina, the thought of a long fight means no sleep so they rely solely on movies, shows, or a book to keep them entertained. Although, for others, they can sleep anywhere, like Reggie, so they look forward to sleep, relaxation, and meditation. No matter which of those people you are you will definitely benefit from this list of best travel accessories for long flights. You may also get some ideas from our post on how to prepare for a long flight and what apps to download before traveling.
The following are in no particular order and are items we personally use when traveling. We also think that this guide will also serve well as a Holiday gift guide for that traveler in your life or any time of year gift guide for that matter. So, without further ado here is our list of best long flight essentials. Oh! And if you are interested in upcoming travel trends check this out.
Compression Socks
Compression socks – Compression socks are very important especially on those longer flights. DVT’s (Deep vein thrombosis) is a real threat on long flights. Please make sure you get up to walk around and keep the blood flowing.
Regular Socks
Regular socks – It seems as if every plane we get on is freezing cold. So we always pack an extra pair of socks to keep our feet warm. This is one of the real deal long flight essentials.
Eye Mask
Eye mask – Well duh! To sleep and keep the light off our eyes. We particularly like this type because they don’t feel like they put pressure on our eyes and nose. For me, Christina, I personally hate when eye masks smush my eyelashes.
Neck Pillow
Neck pillow – We can’t sleep comfortably without a neck pillow so this is a must-have for us. Neck pillows are largely hit or miss. We have found these to be the most comfortable and ergonomic. Another one of our must-have long flight essentials.
Airplane Footrest
Airplane Footrest – Want to know how to survive long flights in economy class? This is literally one of the best airplane travel accessories out there. And it hardly takes up any packing space. It simulates a recliner and who doesn’t love that. I used to always take my backpack out of the overhead bin and place it on the floor in front of my seat so I can rest my feet and legs on it.
Noise-Canceling Headphones
Noise-canceling headphones – Make sure you have a wired pair because you have to plug them into a jack on the airplane. This is one of those long flight essentials we don’t leave home without. We also bring wireless headphones to use during the trip. We never spend a lot of money on the wired headsets because no matter what they always get lost or damaged. I personally love this Skullcandy brand and it also doubles as a fashionable necklace.
Pashmina or Large Scarg
Pashmina or large scarf – Sometimes one blanket isn’t going to cut it so we advise bringing something else that can double as a wardrobe accessory.
Water
Water or water bottle – It is very important to stay hydrated on the flight so drink as much water as possible. Bring your own bottle and fill it at a fountain in the airport because sometimes you can find yourself parched in between inflight services. Also, not only is this “green” but you can also reuse the bottle after you arrive at your destination for an added cost-saving measure.
Extra Snacks
Extra snacks (granola bar, candy, or chips) – we always like to snack on the plane so we pack extras. Pro Tip: bring goodies for the crew too and you will get extra special treatment.
Hand and Face Lotion
Hand and Face lotion – We love these individual lotion packets. You don’t have to worry about it oozing in your bag and they are TSA friendly. Sunscreen is also important so apply apply apply.
In Nose Moisturizer
In nose moisturizer – The inside of my nose always gets dry on the airplane and this product works really well to moisturize. It also can prevent nose bleeds from the dry air. This is not something you would typically think of so make sure you are prepared.
Lip Balm
Lip Balm – I mean this is literally an everyday necessity and not just part of our long flight essentials list. I absolutely love this Simple Truth lip balm. I get it from our local Kroger store however they also have it on Amazon. I like it because I feel like I do not have to apply it as much or as often as any other lip balms. Reggie swears by ChapStick but I feel like I have to re-apply more often when I use his.
Face and Refresher Wipes
Face wipes and refresher wipes – Before settling in for the long haul flight we both like to wash our faces with a refreshing towelette. Both these options are biodegradable and safe for the environment. The Survivewear wipes are made specifically for head to toe use and start to decompose after 28 days.
Change of Clothes
Change of clothes – Sometimes luggage gets lost or things get spilled, enough said.
Fitkicks
Fitkicks to wear on the plane – We always travel with these. They are very thin and compact and they also have a rubber sole so you can wear them for many purposes. I use them to slip on when I go to the bathroom or walking around the hotel rooms.
Electronics Chargers
Electronics chargers – We always say better to have and not need than need and not have. You never know if the outlets on the plane will be working. We have been in the situation when they haven’t, so just saying, the last thing you want is to get to your destination and have to spend extra time at the airport to get a charge. We use Mophies and that’s why this is the brand on our long flight essentials list.
Sweater or Cardigan
Sweater or cardigan – Because layering is in and sometimes the cabin is warm, sometimes cold. In the words of Forrest Gump, “you never know whatcha going to get”.
Travel Medical Kit
Travel Medical Kit (aspirin, ibuprofen, anti-diarrheal, laxative, band-aids, Benedryl, etc). Pack anything you think you might need in a pinch. Pharmacies are available internationally but sometimes you find yourself in a pinch. Plus, sometimes translations on the packages can be rough. Please make sure if scissors are included in your pack to check the kit or simply remove the scissors. Either way, you can customize the kit to whatever you need like we do or buy a pre-made pack.
Book
Book – We can’t tell you what your favorite book is however we can recommend two puzzle books. These are great to pass the time or rest your eyes from the blue light of an electronic screen.
Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer – One-word GERMS. They are everywhere and preventative measures are a must. We love everything from Dr. Bronners so it is natural that we also love their hand sanitizer. No harsh chemicals and it doesn’t feel like it dries out your hands or leaves them slimy.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Toothbrush and toothpaste – The water in the lavatories on the airplane is not safe to drink (not potable). These handy dandy toothbrushes do not require water or any rinsing with water perfect for when you travel, or any time you’re out and about. You can also safely upcycle through Terracycle recycling program. Brushing your teeth on or after a long flight will help you feel refreshed and fresh. Plus, the people around you will thank you ; ).
sSleep Aid
Sleep Aid – Avoid jetlag and help yourself fall asleep and stay asleep. Seek medical advice before taking any new medicines.
Lumbar Support
Lumbar support – Ya’ll my back hurts, all the time. The lumbar support in airplane seats is non-existent so be prepared and set yourself up for success! Help combat back pain by bringing your own lumbar support. You can use it in the car, plane or train. I promise you will thank me later.
Facial Moisturizing Mask
Facial moisturizing mask – I don’t know about you guys but a dry face sucks! An airplane’s average humidity rate is 8% so help your skin out with a moisture mask. You may look ridiculous, at the time, however, you will be the only one with dewy skin when you arrive. An added benefit of a night flight is that no one will see the ridiculousness. I personally do not use a face mask however, I do swear by Obagi and it is highly recommended by my aesthetician and the best moisturizing cream I have ever used. Although, if a mask is your thing we linked a moisture bomb for you to check out.
Laptop or Tablet
Laptop or Tablet – We have never experienced it ourselves however we have seen others experience an inoperative tv on a long haul flight. I always think what if that happens to us – so make sure you are prepared. I personally use and travel with my DELL 7590 however the Samsung tablets are great too. We are more partial to Samsung branded products over Apple.
Hanging Make-up or Toiletry Bag
Hanging travel make-up or toiletry bag – Give it to me!!!! I love these things because one of my biggest pet peeves in a hotel or Airbnb is not having enough counter space in the bathroom. This nifty bag has a hook so you can hang it in the bathroom to free up valuable real estate. It is also great to use in the lavatories on the plane because who wants their stuff touching those germ-ridden bathroom surfaces. Hang this on the coat hook and do your thing. Ps. I use it when I don’t travel as well.
Beanie Cap
Beanie cap – Reggie doesn’t leave home without one. You lose the most heat through your head, feet, and hands so if you are cold-natured these will definitely help keep you warm.
Writing Pen
Pen – A lot of times airlines don’t provide pens to fill out those customs and immigration forms so be prepared with your own. And remember you need a pen for those puzzle books. Gel pens can leak so make sure it is ink and it must be blue or black ink.
Bag Tag
Bag Tags – Get a loud and proud distinctive bag tag. After a long flight people sometimes are tired and not paying attention and might accidentally take your bag instead of theirs. We have had this happen and it is unnerving. Make sure your bag has a distinctive feature that separates it from all the rest in the overhead bins. Another idea could be to add Location-enabled ID tags for your luggage. Protect your lost luggage by receiving a GPS location of your lost luggage (with Google map address) after it is scanned by a good samaritan property finder using any smartphone!
Selfie Stick
Selfie Stick – Yes I know everyone hates to be caught using one but what a great way to include everyone in the photo. We love our selfie stick that converts into a tripod, has a remote and is extra long.
Travel Document Holder
Travel document holder – We use this to hold all of our travel documents in one place. It is also important these days to protect your personal information so find one that blocks RFID scans.
Patience
Patience – Make sure to pack your patience. Start your trip off on the right foot. Be early, be prepared and be kind. Set yourself up for success and you do great!
Mindfulness is very important when packing your long flight essentials bag. Ask yourself what will I need to be comfortable and what will I do “just in case”? Everyone is different and this is just a guide of what we bring on our trips to make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible. As stated earlier better to have and not need than need and not have. We hope you have found our guide on the 30 best travel accessories for long flights useful. Let us know, in the comments, what some of your necessities are when preparing for a long haul flight.
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