We’re all prone to forget things when it comes to packing, and if it’s something essential, then the situation becomes nasty. That’s why I personally like to prepare a packing list and check things off as I pack. We all have our own sets of priorities; however, there are some basic necessities! I previously covered 10 Must-Have Carry-On Essentials, but long-haul flights are different; there are long-haul flight essentials you’ll need to pack in your carry-on luggage. The extra time you spend at the airport or on board is definitely a gamechanger!
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8 Long-Haul Flight Essentials
Besides the previously mentioned carry-on essentials that you still need to pack, the following list is a definite must if you’re flying for a long distance. But first, check out my favorite carry-on picks below!
Inflatable travel pillow
This one’s the most essential of all for me. Whether you’d like to sleep or watch a movie comfortably, a travel pillow is always the answer. And the best thing about those inflatable ones is that you get to save space as a plus! I got mine from Cellini in South Africa; they’re super durable and of high quality. But the picks below are just as good!
Toothpaste and toothbrush
A long-haul flight can take up to almost one day, or maybe two, that’s why your oral hygiene is crucial. Have a small toothpaste tube and a toothbrush on you; trust me, you’ll need them!
Peppermint
Sometimes, brushing your teeth won’t be enough and you’ll need to feel fresher. That’s when peppermint comes in handy, especially if it’s gum; you’ll need that for high-altitude pressure anyway.
Deodorant/ Body butter
Flying for so long and having multiple connection flights mean that you might be experiencing different weathers. Thus, carrying a deodorant is just inevitable. But since liquids aren’t allowed on board, you’ll be left with the deodorant stick option.
However, if your body rejects these kinds of products and you happen to be allergic like myself, there’s a trick that works for me and might work for you as well. After washing up at the airport’s bathroom, I apply The Body Shop’s body butter on my underarms instead. It helps with eliminating body odor a bit and since it’s all-natural, it’s not harsh on my skin.
Extra t-shirt
Since you’ll be freshening up, packing an extra t-shirt or tank top goes without saying. You don’t want to be wearing a sweaty t-shirt after you clean up.
A pair of socks
Just like the extra t-shirt, an extra pair of socks will do no harm. In fact, it’ll be a life savior! Having your feet smothered inside your shoes; even if they’re comfy ones, is a nightmare. So, changing your socks will definitely make a difference and you’ll feel fresher.
Sleep mask
With all that time you spend up there, the flight’s entertainment system, your kindle, or iPad may not be enough. Sleep is going to be a must at some point. Since your sleeping pattern will be messed up, a sleep mask could be useful, especially if you can’t easily fall asleep when you’re not tucked in your own bed.
Noise canceling headphones
Those will come in handy not once but twice! Whether you want to enjoy your music or movie without having to endure your nearby passengers’ baby crying or if you simply want to sleep in peace, this will do the trick. You can also use earplugs, but to be completely honest, they don’t do much in my case.
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Nadine is an Egyptian curly-head who decided to quit the norm because it just doesn’t suit her. She ditched her 9-5 as a magazine editor to pursue her dream of becoming a full-time digital nomad and to inspire aspiring travelers to embark on their own solo adventures.
