Travelling is exciting and fun, but the long flights you have to take to your destination can be an uncomfortable affair. There is only one way to enjoy a long-haul flight, and that is to book a first-class or business class seat.
However, that is a luxury that not everyone can afford, so in this guide I will discuss essential items you take with you to make long haul travel a more pleasant experience.
Disclaimer: Some links in this article are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps cover the cost of running this blog. Thanks for your support!
Travel Essentials for Long Haul Flights
Though it is hard to make economy class flights enjoyable, you can make them bearable. If you are well prepared and you have bought all the essential elements with you, you can easily get through a long flight and land at your destination fresh.
So, if you are planning a vacation and you are dreading the long flight that awaits you, you have come to the right post. Today we are going to tell you about aeroplane essentials for long haul flights.
Sleeping essentials:
When you are on a long flight, some of which can take more than 20 hours, you need to make some arrangements for sleeping.
Anyone who has travelled in economy class knows that those seats aren’t made with comfort in mind. Moreover, the overall environment of the plane makes it very difficult to relax.
However, if you bring the proper sleeping essentials with you, you will be able to get a decent enough sleep. Here is a list of items you could bring along.
1. An eye mask
In a passenger plane, you don’t have the comfort of turning off the lights. It is hard for most people to sleep in a well-lit environment, therefore you should bring an eye mask with you to help you relax.
2. Earplugs
The constant humming sound of the engine and people speaking around you can also make it difficult for you to sleep. Moreover, the cabin pressure in the plane can cause discomfort, especially for people who have sinus problems. There are many different kinds of earplugs in the market, so check out some online reviews to find the best earplugs.
3. A neck pillow
A neck pillow is essential when you are on a long flight. Many people who go to sleep without one wake up with a sore neck. So, if you are planning to sleep on the plane, you need to bring a high-quality neck pillow with you.
You can go for the classic U-shaped pillows, or you can try out some modern ones that can be worn around your neck like a scarf and provide excellent support as well.
4. A small blanket
Though most airlines provide travellers with blankets, you can choose to bring your own if you want to be more comfortable.
The right outfit:
Your outfit plays an essential role in your comfort during a flight. You need to choose one that is functional for the plane and the airport. Now, if you are on a business trip, you will need to dress formally, but otherwise, a relaxing outfit can make a significant difference. Here is a list of some clothing essentials you need for a long flight.
1. Comfortable slip-on shoes
Comfortable slip-on shoes are essential for a long-haul flight. Firstly, they will allow you to take your shoes off and relax on the plane. Secondly, they will speed up proceedings during the security check. Lastly, they will keep your feet comfortable during the long airport terminal walks.
2. A pair of comfortable yet stylish trousers
Firstly, cotton trousers are very comfortable and easy to relax in. There are many stylish options available on the market that you can choose. Secondly, as you won’t have to wear a belt with the trousers, that’s one less thing you need to take off during the security screening process.
3. A light jacket
Planes and airports are internally air-conditioned and they can usually get quite cold at night. Moreover, the aircraft is also colder because of the high altitude. Therefore, you should bring a light jacket with you, even if you are travelling during the summer.
If your long haul flight is taking you to India you should take a look at this travel packing list
Entertainment essentials:
Throughout the long 20-hour flight, you are bound to get a little bored. Though most economy class flights have personal screens in front of every passenger seat, you can’t always rely on them for entertainment.
Firstly, the quality of the LCDs is usually quite low, and you don’t get a sharp display on them. Secondly, the content that is provided by the airline can be quite limited, and you may not find something that you like. Lastly, as your screen is mounted on the seat in front of you, if the angle of that seat is changed, you can’t get a decent view.
So, you should bring your own means of entertainment. You can download a couple of movies onto your laptop or install some fun games on your phone.
If you want to go old school, you can bring a book to read. If you come prepared, the flight will pass quickly, but if you start getting bored, it can feel like an eternity.
Essential travel gadgets:
For a relaxed and comfortable flight and travelling experience, you need to have all the necessary gadgets. Here is a list of some crucial devices you need to bring on the plane.
1. A portable battery pack
If you keep using your phone to watch movies, listen to music or play games on the plane, you are bound to run out of charge. So, it is essential to have a portable battery pack with you to recharge your phone and other gadgets.
2. A universal power adapter
When you are travelling internationally, you need to bring a universal power adapter with you so that you can charge your gadgets wherever you go.
3. A laptop
These days, it isn’t very easy to travel without a laptop. You should add a light notebook to your travel gear and bring it along. You can use it to watch movies on the plane, or if you are on a business trip, you can prepare your presentation or business proposals.
Toiletries:
When you are on a long flight, which is going to last more than 12 hours, you need to bring along some toiletries. Whether you are on a business trip or a vacation, you’ll want to land at your destination fresh and alert.
So, having some essential grooming items can make your trip more comfortable, and it can help you go about your routine as soon as you land. Here is a list of some essential toiletries you need to add to your travel kit.
- Toothpaste and a toothbrush
- Dental floss
- Mouth wash
- Hand sanitiser
- Some perfume or cologne
- Hand moisturizer
- Face lotion
- Shampoo
- Hairstyling essentials
Snacks:
Lastly, you also need to bring some light snacks to munch on during the journey. Over the course of a long flight, hunger will set in and you may not like the food provided on the plane. Therefore it’s a good idea to bring some along with you.
You can bring whatever you want, however some airlines may not allow you to take fruits on the flight, so check the rules and regulations before you leave for the airport. Furthermore, remember to get your snacks before you go to the airport because the shops in the terminal are usually more expensive.
Whether you are taking a long flight to attend a business meeting, or you are going on an amazing vacation, you need to take some steps to make your journey more comfortable. Economy class seating on the plane isn’t designed with comfort in mind. The seats are small, there is limited leg space, and there is no personal space. Moreover, as the economy class is at the back of the plane so is closer to the engines.
However, you can’t let these discomforts deter you from your vacation. If you follow this post and take all of the essentials mentioned above with you on the flight, you can have a comfortable and smooth trip.
We hope that you find this post helpful and we wish you a fun and exciting trip.
Looking to escape the crowds and travel somewhere a little different? Take a look at this post!
Like it? Pin it for later!
Join my monthly Newsletter today!
