Flying long haul can be exhausting. These long flights, especially overnight flights, can leave you feeling drained before you even get to your destination. The good news is having the right travel essentials can make your long haul flight much more comfortable.
In 2023, most airlines only allow 1 personal item as a carry-on, so you need to be strategic with what flight essentials you pack. The best long flight essentials are items that maximize comfort and convenience. Follow these travel tips to make sure you always bring the most useful things when you fly long haul.
1. Long Haul Flight Essentials: Must-Have Items for Long-Haul Flights
When flying long haul, especially on an overnight flight, there are certain long flight essentials that can improve your in-air experience. Flight attendants recommend keeping your carry-on simple with just the best travel essentials. Here are some ideas of what you should always bring on a long flight:
- Travel Pillow – Having your own pillow means you can sleep comfortably without relying on the tiny airline pillows. A good travel pillow wraps around your neck and provides ample head and neck support.
- Water Bottle – Staying hydrated is key on long flights. Bring an empty reusable water bottle so you can fill it up after passing through airport security. This allows you to have water handy without relying on the flight attendants.
- Noise-canceling Headphones – The constant engine noise on an airplane can make it hard to sleep or watch movies. Noise-canceling headphones block out the ambient noise so you can sleep or listen to entertainment in peace.
- Compression Socks – Sitting for hours can lead to swollen feet and ankles. Compression socks improve circulation and reduce swelling.
2. Packing Tips for Long Flights: How to Pack for a Long Haul Flight
When you’re taking an international flight or going on a long holiday, it’s important to know what to pack on a long flight. Since it’s a long flight, you’ll need items to keep you comfortable and entertained during the flight in case your flight is delayed. Here are some tips for packing your carry-on essentials and other items you’ll need during the flight:
- Pack layers – It can get chilly on the plane, so make sure to pack a cardigan or light jacket you can layer on top of your clothes. Having layers means you can adjust to the airplane’s temperature.
- Bring an empty water bottle – This allows you to fill it up after passing security so you always have water on hand during your long flight. Staying hydrated is key to surviving a long haul flight.
- Pack entertainment – Download movies, books, magazines, and podcasts before your flight. Don’t risk running out of entertainment options on your 10+ hour flight.
- Include your own travel pillow – Airline pillows are very flat and small. A pillow like the Trtl Travel Pillow provides ample support and comfort on a long flight.
3. Travel Essentials to Pack for Long Flights: Items You Need On Long Haul Flights
When you’re traveling for multiple days or taking one long trip, it’s important to be strategic with what essentials you pack. For long travel days, there are certain items you should always bring whether you’re flying or backpacking long haul.
Here are some of the top long haul flight tips for essentials you need to pack:
- Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on – Having a fresh set of clothes to change into makes you feel refreshed during those long trips. You don’t want to wear the same thing the whole flight.
- Pack light – Since most airlines only allow a small travel backpack or purse, you need to bring flight essentials to pack. Only bring what you absolutely need to bring.
- Bring earplugs and eye masks – These make it easier to sleep during the flight, which is essential on those long haul flights. An eye mask and earplugs are some of the best long haul flight essentials.
- Travel pillow – A small travel pillow that provides neck support will make it easier to rest during your flight. Having your own pillow is better than relying on the airline ones.
4. In-Flight Entertainment: How to Keep Entertained on Long Flights
Having entertainment options is essential for every long flight. You need activities to keep you busy, especially if your flight is delayed for 12+ hours. Here are some tips for in-flight entertainment:
- Download movies, shows, and books – Stock up your tablet with enough entertainment to last another long flight. You don’t want to run out mid-flight.
- Pack a neck pillow – This travel accessory makes it easier to watch movies comfortably on long flights. The Trtl travel pillow is one of the best for chin support.
- Bring noise-cancelling headphones – This is one of my long haul flight essentials for blocking out noise to immerse yourself in movies or sleep.
- Try in-flight WiFi – Many long haul flights now offer WiFi so you can stream movies or shows from your laptop.
5. Beauty Essentials for Long Flights: What to Wear and Pack
Looking refreshed after a long flight isn’t easy, but bringing beauty essentials in your carry-on can help you survive a long-haul flight looking and feeling better. Here are tips on what to wear and pack:
- Face wipes to freshen up
- Dry shampoo and hairbrush
- Lip balm – this is number one for avoiding chapped lips
- Hand cream – frequent hand washing dries out skin
- Headphones and sleep mask – sleep on a long flight
6. Packing Your Carry-On: Carry-On Essentials for Long Flights
Since most airlines restrict carry-on bags, you need to be selective with carry-on essentials for long flights. Here are some of the most useful items:
- Water bottle – this is one long flight essential I never board without
- Trtl travel pillow – one of the best travel accessories for long flights
- Noise-cancelling headphones – essential for tuning out and sleeping
- Compression socks – reduce swelling and improve circulation
- Snacks – in case they don’t serve food or meals are delayed
7. Flight Essentials Packing Checklist: Must-Have Items for Your Next Flight
Use this checklist to ensure you don’t forget any flight essentials to pack for your next long-haul flight:
- Travel pillow
- Water bottle
- Entertainment (tablet, books, headphones)
- Trtl travel pillow
- Change of clothes
- Toiletries (face wipes, lip balm, hand cream)
- Compression socks
- Eye mask
- Earplugs
- Snacks
Frequently Asked Questions About Long Haul Flights
What are the most essential carry-on items I need for a long haul flight?
The top essentials are a travel pillow, water bottle, noise-canceling headphones, compression socks, lip balm, and entertainment like books or tablets. Having the right carry-on essentials can make or break your flight.
What should I wear on a long haul flight?
Opt for comfortable, loose-fitting clothing you can layer. Bring layers like a cardigan in case the plane is chilly. Compression socks are great for reducing swelling and blood clots.
What if my long haul flight is delayed for 12+ hours?
Having backup entertainment and snacks is crucial in case of delays. Make sure to pack enough books, downloaded movies, tablets, and snacks to last the full flight, even with a significant delay.
What documents do I need when flying long-haul?
Bring your passport, boarding pass, travel insurance documents, and any visas or other travel authorization paperwork needed for your destination. It’s essential to keep these accessible.
How can I survive a long flight without getting bored?
Pack sufficient in-flight entertainment and consider splurging on WiFi access if available. Downloading movies, books, games, and podcasts ahead of time is the number one way to stay busy.
Concluding
Preparing properly for a long flight can make all the difference in how enjoyable your travel experience is. Flying long distances can be exhausting and uncomfortable without the right amenities and supplies. By packing smartly and bringing only the most essential items in your carry-on bag, you can maximize your comfort and convenience in the air.
Some of the most critical flight essentials for long haul trips include noise-canceling headphones, an adjustable travel pillow, lip balm, snacks, documents, entertainment, and comfortable clothing. Don’t rely on just what the airline provides – bring your own supplies to ensure you have what you need. Additionally, be strategic with your packing to adhere to carry-on size and liquid restrictions.
With the right preparation using this checklist of top-flight essentials, your next long-haul trip can be as smooth and stress-free as possible. Proper planning makes all the difference when you will be spending 10+ hours in transit. Just remember to pack light, stay hydrated, dress comfortably, and bring entertainment. By following these tips, you can survive and even enjoy your next long-haul flight.