Everyone hates long flights, unless you’re in business class. Well, even then. Unfortunately as a traveler you’re going to experience a lot of them! Here a few things that are absolutely necessary to bring with you if you’re going to be spending 8+ hours on a plane.
Courtesy of my bedroom for being such an excellent studio…
A Neck Pillow.
If you have ever been on a long-haul flight, you know that you can expect to receive a piece of cotton wrapped in fabric, which airlines ironically call a pillow. Uh huh. That’s why I deem a neck pillow to be my NUMBER ONE absolute necessity on any flight. It is more comfortable, provides neck and back support, and keeps you from drooling on your neighbor’s shoulder!
An Eye Mask.
On the topic of sleep, an eye mask is a perfect way to try and catch some Z’s on a flight. This is useful when you are trying to acclimate to a time zone or the lights are kept on. Bonus: some airlines have started handing out free masks, so you might not even have to buy one!
A Good Book.
You know that book you always say you are going to read, and it ends up on your nightstand watching Netflix with you? Now would be the time to crack it open. Sometimes, you’ve seen all of the movies on the entertainment system. There is only so many times you can watch Sixteen Candles. I’ve been on flights where you had to completely power off electronics, even if it is just to listen to music. It gets really boring, really fast. A book can be a great “last resort”, but I encourage you to do it as a first one!
A Dental Kit.
Getting off a long flight can leave you feeling nasty. If you are meeting people, or just generally care about hygiene, this is a must-have. A teeny toothbrush and toothpaste can easily fit in the side pocket of a purse or even in some wallets. Using one of these bad boys before landing can help you feel refreshed, ready to go, and make travelling a more enjoyable experience. As the friend who has picked you up from the airport, please just do it.
Travel-sized Products.
I have never been one to do a facemask or anything on a flight. I will, however, use a little puffy-reducing eye cream, lotion, and maybe perfume. The air in those cramped little planes is super dry, and again in line with hygiene, we probably could use a shower afterwards. That is why I like to keep a little bottle of perfume and lotion with me. Additionally, eye cream can be nice when you haven’t had a lot of sleep, and are feeling pretty gross. Maybe not a necessity, but it definitely helps!
A Big Ole Sweater.
If you are like me, you’ll get cold on a summer day in Texas. Increase the altitude a bit, and you’re freezing. That is why I always like to pack a massive sweater whenever I am travelling, even if it is to a warm climate. It can be used as a blanket, and is definitely preferable to one because you can wear it on the plane without adding to your suitcase weight limit. Win-win!!!
Compression Socks.
On freezing in a plane, see above. I cannot stress the importance of compression socks enough! When you are sitting in a position for hours on end, your circulation is going to be horrible. Enter: compression socks. They keep your blood pumping and make sure that you don’t get that tingly feeling in your feet. And honestly? That is reason enough to wear them.
Electronics.
In this day and age, we all have them. Taking your electronics on the actual flight has many benefits. First, they can be quite heavy and most airlines (except budget, ofc) can be very relaxed on carry-on weight, as opposed to luggage weight. Additionally, many sites nowadays allow you to download shows or movies when offline. If you don’t like the movie selection, or maybe you have picky kids, this can be a good way to provide entertainment. Finally, more and more flights are providing free wifi nowadays, allowing you to catch up on some things you need to do. I can’t tell you how many essays and homeworks have been done on the flight, allowing me to enjoy my vacation!
Chargers and Converters.
If you are going anywhere outside of your own country, make sure you bring a converter. Different countries = different outlets. It is useful in the carry-on because many seats now come with outlets that allow you to charge up your electronics. Or, if you have a long layover, you can plug it in at the airport. Having easy access to a charger is never a bad thing, especially since they can be overpriced at airports!
Headphones.
Even better if they are noise cancelling. Planes are noisy places, with the roar of the engine, the guy snoring loudly beside you, and the baby two rows back. It is kind of hard to find your zen. Also, the cheap plastic earphones provided by the airlines are REALLY uncomfortable after a few hours. Best bet is to bring your own!
Important Documents.
Super important. Take any ID’s, tickets, or other documents you might need with you during your trip in your carry on. I also recommend keeping everything in one folder, to make sure that they stay together, and damage-free. I also recommend having some type of holder for your passport, preferably a sturdy material like leather, that keeps your passport safe. After years of travelling, they can easily banged up in your bag, or bent and broken before their time. A simple solution to this is just keeping it in a little pouch!
Valuables.
VERY IMPORTANT. Keep any money, jewelry, personal items, or any expensive things you may own on your person at all times. I have heard too many stories from friends about how they have had items stolen from their luggage. And the best part? Some airlines hide in the terms and conditions that they are not responsible for any damaged or stolen items in your suitcase. It is not a myth, so don’t let it happen to you!
A Bit of Makeup.
Maybe not a necessity. More like a recommendation. I never wear makeup on flights since I always come out looking like I am auditioning for KISS. But I do keep a little bit in my purse to put on before I get off the flight. This is a skill I have trained since my mother likes to take pictures as soon as I walk out of baggage claim. A little hydrating creme, a little mascara, a concealer and ya girl feels fabulous. So maybe take this one with a grain of salt!
Is there anything that is a must-have when you travel? Let me know in the comments below!
A Travel Date With Laura Kate 