Long Flight Essentials: What to Pack and Tips for a Comfortable Flight

Whether you’re traveling internationally or across the country, being well-prepared can make a world of difference in how you feel during your flight.

I used to dread long flights since I would always feel antsy and uncomfortable. 

However, I’ve discovered that with the right mindset, preparation, and must-have essentials, long flights can be somewhat enjoyable—or at least far less intimidating.

I mean, when else do you get a chance to completely unplug and have no responsibilities for 10+ hours?

Without further ado, let’s dive into my comprehensive guide of long flight essentials and tips to help you stay comfortable on your next flight.

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Must-Have Long Flight Essentials

In this guide, we will go over my go-to long flight essentials to help make your journey more bearable.

I’ve organized everything into categories: comfort, hygiene, food, entertainment, health and wellness, technology, and organization.

This way, you can easily find exactly what you need to make your flight more enjoyable.

Comfort

Being comfortable on a flight can make a huge difference in your mood and how you feel when you reach your destination!

There’s nothing worse than being uncomfortable on a flight watching the time drag by at a snail’s pace.

I swear, the more comfortable you are, the faster the time seems to pass since you aren’t dreading it so much which I have learned from experience.

I personally struggle to fall asleep on flights, but I have found that if I prioritize comfort—both in what I’m wearing and what I pack—makes falling asleep a little more possible.

And honestly, just being comfortable while watching movies or reading a book is a big win. 

Let’s be real, flying in Economy for 10+ hours is not going to be comfortable no matter what you do.

But with these long flight essentials, you can at least make the journey a little more manageable so you can start your trip on the right foot.

• Neck Pillow: A good neck pillow can make all the difference in helping you fall asleep and to avoid waking up with neck pain during a long flight. There are many options available, but I would avoid overly bulky ones—they’re harder to pack and often less comfortable. Many airlines provide basic pillows depending on the length of the flight, but if you’re looking for something better, the Turtl neck pillow comes highly recommended.
• Eye Mask: Eye masks are great to block out the light to make it easier for you to fall asleep. These are also great to use at your hotel if needed.
• Travel Blanket: A compact travel blanket is great to have on hand if it gets cold on the airplane. It will also make you more cozy to help you fall asleep.
• Compression Socks: Compression socks are a must on long flights. They help improve circulation and prevent swelling while you’re sitting for long periods of time. Make sure to get up and stretch your legs every so often to keep the blood flowing.
• Comfortable Clothing: Comfortable clothing is a must. No restrictive or tight clothing!
  • Loose-Fitting Pants: Loose fitting sweatpants or joggers are my go to since you can easily wear compression socks under them.
  • Layers: Airplanes seem to either be super cold or uncomfortably warm. I would wear a lightweight layer under a hoodie or zip-up jacket so you can shed layers as needed. A hoodie is particularly great because you can pull the hood over your head when trying to sleep.
• Slip-on Shoes: I recommend wearing some type of slides or slip-on shoes that can easily be taken on/off. Make sure they are odor-free though!
• Lower Back Support: You can use your travel pillow or a rolled-up hoodie to cushion your lower back.
• Portable Fan: Airplanes can get stuffy so a portable fan is great to help keep you cool and comfortable.
• Noise-Canceling Earplugs: If you’re sensitive to noise or want to block out distractions while trying to sleep, noise-canceling earplugs are a must.

Hygiene

Towards the end of a long flight, I begin to feel a bit grimy, but having the right hygiene essentials with me has changed the game.

With these items, I can freshen up mid-flight and before landing so I can arrive at my destination feeling my best. 

• Travel Toothbrush: Perfect to use after your in-flight meal! These toothbrushes come with toothpaste already in the bristles, making them super convenient.
• Floss Picks: Floss picks are nice to have on-hand if needed after brushing your teeth.
• Facial Wipes: Facial wipes are great to clean off your face and leave you feeling refreshed.
• Hand Sanitizer or Wipes: A must-have for cleaning your hands before meals and snacks.
• Deodorant: A travel-sized deodorant is great to have when needed. 
• Facial Moisturizer and Lip Balm: The air on planes can be quite drying to my skin, so having facial moisturizer and lip balm is a must to keep my skin hydrated.
• Body Wipes: Body wipes are perfect to use in the airplane bathroom for a quick refresh during long flights.
• Avoid Perfumes: Make sure to avoid using any perfumes or body sprays. These strong scents can be quite annoying to the people seated near you.

Food

It is always smart to have some food on-hand that you enjoy and know settle well in your stomach, just in case you don’t like the meals or snacks provided on the plane.

And honestly, I always need more food than what the airline provides!

• Reusable Water Bottle: Fill it at water bottle refill station after security or buy a large water bottle at a convenience store. Make sure to keep hydrated while flying!
• Nutritious Snacks: Trail mix, protein bars, nuts, or dried fruit are great options that will leave you feeling energized and full.
• Gum or Mints: Gum is not only helpful for ear pressure during takeoff and landing but also helps to keep your breath fresh.
• Electrolytes: I recommend adding electrolytes to your water to keep you hydrated. LMNT is my favorite—the watermelon or raspberry flavor.

Entertainment

The easiest way to make the time fly on a long flight is to keep yourself busy and entertained!

Most flights will have in-flight entertainment with a screen in front of you, offering a wide selection of movies, TV shows, and games. 

But depending on the airline and the flight length, that may not always be the case.

That is why I always recommend downloading movies, tv shows, music, and podcasts on your phone or Ipad before your flight—just in case.

And don’t forget a portable charger, especially if you’ll be using your devices a lot, in case your seat doesn’t have an outlet or it isn’t working.

• Kindle or E-Reader: A kindle is the perfect way to read while on a long flight. You can download as many books as you want on it, and it all fits into one compact device. It makes packing way easier since you don’t have to make room for physical books.
• Download Movies, TV Shows, Music and Podcasts: Make sure to download some of your favorite movies and TV shows in advance as well as anything you have been wanting to watch but haven’t had the time! Long flights are the perfect time to catch up on your TV shows and podcasts.
• Earbuds/Headphones: Usually the flight attendants will pass out headphones that plug into the screen in front of you, but I would always bring an extra pair that can be used with your own devices.
• Travel Journal: If you’re feeling creative, you can spend the time crafting a travel journal to either plan for your upcoming trip or reminisce on past trips.
• Offline Games or Apps: Download fun games on your phone or bring physical games like Sudoku, mini board games, and card games.
• Create a Playlist: Using Spotify or Apple Music create a playlist of all of your favorite songs and don’t forget to download it so you can use it offline.
• Learn Something New: If you’re feeling up for it, consider using the long flight to learn something new whether that be a language-learning app, podcasts, or crocheting. 
• Drawing: Coloring books are always a fun way to pass the time and keep your brain occupied.

P.S. Check out my blog post where we discuss 23 things to do on long flights you might not have thought of before!

Technology

Tech items are essential for keeping your devices charged during long flights, especially if you plan on using them throughout the flight.

• Portable Charger: I swear by portable chargers—they’re compact, easy to use, and a lifesaver when there are no working outlets nearby. They ensure your devices stay fully charged and ready to go when you reach your destination.
• Universal Adapter: Universal adapters come in handy if you are needing to charge devices during layovers in other countries as well at your hotel at the destination.
• Chargers: Always pack an extra phone charger just in case.
• Tablet or Laptop: For work or watching movies/TV shows
• Luggage Trackers: AirTags are always great to keep in your checked bags and even carry ons to make sure you can track your luggage if it gets lost.

Health & Wellness

To feel your best during and after a long flight, here are some health and wellness tips to help you prepare your body and mind.

It is normal for long flights to leave you feeling drained, and jet lag is almost inevitable once you arrive at your destination. 

However, there are steps you can take to minimize these effects and arrive feeling more refreshed.

• Sleeping Aids: Consider melatonin or Advil PM to help you sleep during the flight, but test them beforehand to ensure they don’t leave you feeling groggy.
• Travel-Sized Medicine Kit: Pack essentials like pain relievers, antacids, motion sickness remedies, and Sudafed if you’re prone to congestion.
• Eye Drops: If you’re prone to dry eyes, the plane air could make them even worse, especially if you’re staring at a screen for the majority of the flight. Consider packing eye drops to use.
• Exercise Before Your Flight: If possible, fit in a workout or long walk before your flight to get your endorphins flowing.
• Move Regularly: Get up every so often to stretch and keep blood flowing.
• Keep Hydrated: The worst thing you can do is to avoid drinking water on a long flight so you don’t have to use the bathroom. I know airplane bathrooms are not fun, but you will feel so much better if you stay hydrated and drink plenty of water. Also add electrolytes into your water for extra hydration!
• Anti-Bloating Tips: Avoid salty snacks and heavy meals that could make you feel bloated during the flight. Stick to foods you know settle well with your stomach.
• Blue-Light Glasses: If you’re using electronic devices, blue light glasses are great to use to reduce eye strain and improve your sleep.

Organization

Keeping your important documents and frequently used items organized and easily accessible is essential for a smooth and stress-free flight.

I like to use my Lululemon belt bag to store my must-haves, like hand sanitizer, earbuds, and small snacks, so they’re always within reach. 

For larger items, I designate an easy-to-access pocket in my travel backpack (which doubles as my personal item and fits under the seat) to hold things like bigger snacks, entertainment devices like my Kindle and iPad, and portable chargers.

Having everything in its designated spot means I always know exactly where to find what I need without having to dig through my luggage.

• Passport Holder: Keep travel documents, credit cards, and cash in one convenient place with this passport holder.
• Packing Cubes: Packing cubes are helpful to organize your essentials for easy access during the flight.
• Plastic or Ziplock Bags: Handy for liquids and snack

Trying to pack only in a carry-on suitcase? Check out my blog post where we go over 40 essential carry-on packing tips!

Tips for a Smooth Long Flight

Before the Flight

• Check-In Online: Make sure to check in online for your flight, especially for international travel, where you’ll often need to enter your passport information. Online check-in typically opens 24 hours before departure and allows you to choose your seat if you haven’t already. While you can check in at the airport, doing it online saves time and lets the airline know you will be there for the flight.
• Select Your Seat Wisely: A window seat is ideal for sleeping while an aisle seat allows you easier access to get up as you please. I prefer the aisle seat so I can get up more often and stretch my legs without having to bother the people next to me.
• Stay Hydrated: Be sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated the day before your flight to keep yourself feeling your best.
• Add Electrolytes: Add LMNT packets or electrolyte tablets to your water for extra hydration.
• Avoid Heavy Meals: I don’t recommend drinking caffeine or eating a heavy meal before your flight. No one wants an upset stomach before a long flight. If you’re planning on trying to sleep during your flight, then really make sure to avoid caffeine since that will make it harder for you to fall asleep.
• Stretch Beforehand: Get a good stretch in before your long flight to loosen up your muscles before you’re sitting for a long period of time.
• Check Airline Policies: Make sure you’re aware of the carry-on size limits and what’s allowed in your bag, especially when flying internationally.
• Pack a Backup Outfit: Include a set of clothes in your personal item in case of delays with checked luggage or if your carry-on has to be checked at the gate due to limited overhead space.

During the Flight

• Change Your Mindset: I know it is easy to think negatively about the long flight ahead of you, but try to shift your perspective. Think of it as an opportunity to relax and enjoy uninterrupted time to watch your favorite movie, catch up on TV shows, or read books. If you go in with a positive attitude, you will have a better flight. 
• Align Sleep with Destination Time: Try to adjust your sleep schedule to line up with your destination’s time zone to help minimize jet lag.
• Dress in Layers: Stay comfortable by adding or removing layers as needed.
• Request Extra Water: Don’t hesitate to ask the flight attendants for additional water to stay hydrated if you run out of your own. 
• Sanitize Your Space: Use disinfecting wipes to clean your tray table and armrests. These come in handy if your tray table is especially dirty.
• Skip Carbonated Drinks: If you’re nervous about having an upset stomach, I recommend avoiding soda as they can cause bloating. Go for water instead.
• Avoid Excessive Alcohol: While it might help you relax, alcohol can dehydrate you and make jet lag worse.

After the Flight

• Get Fresh Air: Spend time outdoors to help adjust to the new time zone.
• Take It Easy: Avoid overloading your schedule on arrival day to give yourself time to relax.
• Combat Jet Lag: Stick to your destination’s time zone as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Long flights don’t have to be something you dread anymore!

With the right preparation, mindset, and must-have long-flight essentials, you can turn those hours in the air into a more enjoyable experience and arrive at your destination feeling refreshed.