Packing for long-haul flights is never easy ! You want to take enough things so you’re sure won’t miss anyhting, but you also don’t want to overpack. Trust me, I’ve been in this endless loop of thought many times before. Over the years, though, I think I’ve narrowed down my long haul flight essentials I bring on every trip. Let me share my list with you.
1. Hoodie & Comfortable Clothes
This one might not come as a surprise, but comfortable clothes are a must for long flights. You will spend hours locked into your seat with barely any chance to move, so it’s important to stay cozy. Just like you would never sleep in your skinny jeans, I would’nt to wear those on a fligtht. Therefore, baggy pants and flowy tops are perfect. On top, you can wear a hoodie as it sometimes gets cold in the plane. It’s extra comfy and the pockets are great for keeping small things within reach ! So wear large, loose clothes and you’ll stay comfortable the entire flight.
2. Headphones or Earbuds
I used to think airplane white noise helped me sleep better, but I didn’t realize how often I was woken up by other passengers sounds. Recently, when I started sleeping with headphones on and I had a much better rest. I didn’t wake up as much during the night so it was truly game changer for my overall sleep. Mine have a noise cancelling-feature which added even more comfort. If you don’t own a pair, don’t worry earplugs can work just as well !
3. Water
Plane air is very dry, so if you don’t want to dehydrate and arrive exhausted, it is important to drink regularly. Flight attendants usually serve drinks during meals but later you will need to request it. Of course, you can ask water at anytime or walk to the back of the plane to get some. Still, you might need to climb over two people to reach the aisle, and in the middle of the night that’s inconvenient. So, I usually bring an empty bottle to fill after security or if I forgot I buy one at the airport.
4. Tissues & Hand Sanitizer
This one is straightforward for long haul flight essentials, but always handy ! As I mentioned previously, airplane air can get chilly. So you can easily get a runny nose, and it is quite convenient to have tissues. Also, you will be touching a lot of surfaces at the airport and on the plane. So in case there is no soap around, hand sanitizer is a life saver.
5. Mini Toileteries
Another long haul flight essentials : mini toileteries ! I used to skip them because I am too shy to do a full skincare routine on the plane like people on Instagram. But recently I bought a foldable toothbrush and mini toothpaste and it was a game changer. Brushing your teeth in the plane’s tiny bathroom is quick and refrehsing, especially after sleeping. A small deodorant is also helpful since showers aren’t an option mid-flight.
6. Snacks
I have always been a picky eater, so airplanes meals aren’t my favorite. Some airlines are better than others, but I still remember one awful flight where almost non of us could eat the food, it was bad. when talking about food. Now, to avoid starving, I always bring snacks. Pre cut fruit, sweets or any small treat you like is a good idea. Having something you enjoy makes the flight more pleasant and saves you from relying only on the airline meal.
7. Medicine & Melatonin
Whether you take daily medication or not, it’s smart to keep some basic medicine with you. I tend to get headaches easily, so I always pack paracetamol. Recently to sleep better, I also tried Melatonin. It is a supplement that helps with sleep and jet lag. If you have never taken melatonin before, ask your pharmacist for advice and check a trusted source for recommendations before trying it.
8. Chargers & Battery
Nothing is more stressful than a dead phone when you land in a country you don’t know ! Since you’ll use your phone during the flight but still need it when you arrive, a portable battery is essential ! Most planes let you plug your phone into the seat screen, but many still have old USB-A ports that charge slowly. Having your own bank will save the day.
9. Activities
Long-haul flights are, by definition, long. You’ll need something to keep you entertained for hours. Most planes offer screens loaded with movies and shows, but if you want your favorite series, download it beforehand. I also recommend packing a book or another non-screen activity. Several hours in front of a screen can get tiring, so it’s nice to have a backup. You’ll probably sleep for part of the flight anyway, so one good book is enough.
Now you have all my long haul flight essentials ! Select the ones that fit the best to your needs ! And check out my other articles here :
