Airplane Essentials: What You Need to Survive a Long Flight
Long flights can be exciting (yay, new adventure!) but also exhausting, uncomfortable, and downright boring if you’re not prepared. Whether you’re flying across the country or halfway around the world, having the right essentials can make all the difference between arriving refreshed or feeling like a jet-lagged zombie.
Here’s the ultimate list of airplane must-haves to keep you comfortable, entertained, and well-prepared for your next long-haul journey.
1. The Right Carry-On Bag
Before we talk about what to pack, let’s talk about where to pack it.
Choose a lightweight, spacious backpack or tote that fits under the seat in front of you.
Multiple compartments = easy organization (No more digging around for your earphones!)
Zippered sections keep valuables safe and prevent items from spilling out mid-flight.
Pro Tip: Keep your most-needed items (passport, phone, charger, headphones) in a small pouch inside your bag so you don’t have to rummage around mid-flight.
2. Travel Pillow & Blanket
Sleeping on a plane is notoriously difficult, but a good travel pillow makes all the difference.
Neck pillow: Memory foam is best for support!
Travel blanket or large scarf: Planes get cold—stay cozy!
Eye mask: Blocks out light for better sleep.
Earplugs: Drown out crying babies, chatty seatmates, and engine noise.
Pro Tip: Compression socks help prevent swollen feet and deep vein thrombosis (DVT)—especially on flights over 6 hours.
3. Noise-Canceling Headphones
Plane engines? Crying kids? Snoring seatmates? No, thank you! A good pair of noise-canceling headphones lets you tune out the chaos and enjoy your entertainment in peace.
Wireless or wired: Some planes still have aux jacks!
Lightweight & comfortable for long wear
High battery life (or bring a backup charger)
Pro Tip: Download movies, podcasts, and playlists before boarding to avoid inflight WiFi struggles.
4. Entertainment & Gadgets
Long flights = long hours to kill. Keep yourself occupied with a mix of offline and online entertainment options.
E-books & audiobooks (Kindle or a reading app like Libby)
Netflix downloads (because inflight movies aren’t always great)
Podcasts or meditation apps for relaxation
Portable gaming console (Nintendo Switch, anyone?)
Notebook & pen (for journaling, doodling, or trip planning)
Pro Tip: Bring a tablet stand if you plan to watch movies on your phone or iPad—it saves your arms from getting sore!
5. Chargers & Power Bank
A dead phone in an airport is a nightmare. Keep your devices fully charged throughout your trip!
Power bank: At least 10,000mAh for multiple charges
USB cable & wall adapter (Don’t rely on plane outlets—some don’t work!)
Universal travel adapter if flying internationally
Pro Tip: Use low-power mode on your phone to conserve battery on long flights.
6. Snacks & Hydration
Airplane food is hit or miss, and airport prices are ridiculous. Stay fueled with your own snacks and drinks.
Healthy snacks: Nuts, granola bars, dried fruit, protein bars
Reusable water bottle: Fill it after security to stay hydrated
Electrolyte tablets (great for dehydration and jet lag)
Chewing gum or mints: Helps with ear popping and freshens breath
Pro Tip: Avoid salty or greasy snacks, as they can make dehydration worse.
7. Travel-Sized Toiletries
Feeling fresh on a long-haul flight = instant mood boost! Pack a mini toiletry kit to freshen up mid-flight and before landing.
Face wipes & hand sanitizer
Moisturizer & lip balm (Cabin air is super drying!)
Toothbrush & toothpaste
Deodorant (for you and your seatmate’s sake!)
Hairbrush or comb
Pro Tip: Use solid toiletries (like shampoo bars and deodorant sticks) to save space and avoid liquid restrictions.
8. Health & Comfort Essentials
Being stuck in a small seat for hours is no fun, so make sure you’re comfortable and prepared.
Pain relievers: Headaches and muscle pain happen.
Sleeping aids: Melatonin or herbal sleep supplements can help.
Motion sickness meds (if you’re prone to nausea)
Face mask (for germ protection on crowded flights)
Tissues & wet wipes (because tray tables aren’t always clean!)
Pro Tip: If you have allergies or food restrictions, bring your own allergy-friendly snacks just in case.
9. Important Travel Documents
No matter how well-packed you are, you’re not going anywhere without your documents!
✔ Passport & visa (if needed)
✔ Boarding pass (paper or digital)
✔ Travel insurance details
✔ Emergency contacts & hotel info
✔ Credit card & some local currency
Pro Tip: Keep digital copies of your documents in your email or a secure app for backup.
10. Comfy Travel Outfit
Forget about tight jeans or fancy outfits—long-haul flights are all about comfort!
✔ Loose, breathable clothing
✔ Layers (hoodie or cardigan) for changing temps
✔ Slip-on shoes (easy for security & bathroom trips)
✔ Cozy socks (because airplane floors are gross)
Pro Tip: A scarf or shawl doubles as a blanket, pillow, or extra layer if it gets chilly.
Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Fly Happy!
Surviving a long flight is all about planning ahead and packing smart. With the right essentials, you’ll arrive at your destination feeling refreshed, relaxed, and ready to explore!
What’s your #1 must-have for long flights? Drop your best travel tips in the comments!