Traveling by air, especially on long flights, can be exhausting and uncomfortable without the right essentials. In-flight essentials are items that help make your time in the air more comfortable, convenient, and stress-free. From keeping you relaxed to ensuring you have everything you need within arm’s reach, these must-have items enhance your flying experience, whether you're embarking on a short haul or a long international flight.
Key In-Flight Essentials:
Neck Pillow: A good-quality neck pillow is essential for supporting your head and neck, reducing strain and improving sleep comfort during long flights. Look for memory foam or inflatable options for easy packing. See my hack on neck pillows for COO travel.
Noise-Canceling Headphones/Earbuds or Earplugs and AirFly: Noise-canceling headphones/earbuds help block out the background noise of the cabin, providing a quieter, more peaceful environment for rest or listening to music and movies. Earplugs are a compact alternative for noise reduction. An easy way to connect to in-flight entertainment systems with your own headphones or earbuds is by using AirFly, a wireless audio transmitter.
Sleep Mask: A sleep mask is a simple yet effective way to block out light, creating a more conducive environment for rest, especially during daytime flights or when trying to sleep during the night.
Inflatable Footrest: An inflatable footrest is a practical, compact, portable, and affordable solution to enhance comfort, improve circulation, and relieve body strain during long flights.
Inflatable Seat Cushion: An inflatable seat cushion for long flights provides extra comfort and support for your back and legs. Lightweight and compact, it easily inflates for relief during long trips and deflates for easy packing.
Scarf: Airplane cabins can be chilly, and a larger lightweight scarf can keep you cozy throughout the flight. Many airlines offer blankets, but having your own provides a more hygienic and personal option.
Compression Socks: Compression socks help improve circulation and prevent swelling during long flights, especially for those at risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or anyone who experiences leg discomfort while seated for extended periods.
Hydration Essentials: The dry air in airplanes can leave you dehydrated, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Bring a reusable water bottle (empty through security) and refill it once on board. Also, consider hydrating facial mists or moisturizing hand cream to keep your skin refreshed.
Snacks: Airline snacks can be limited or unsatisfying. Packing your own healthy snacks, such as nuts, granola bars, or fruit, ensures you have something nutritious and satisfying to munch on during the flight.
Gum: When a plane descends, the rapid change in altitude causes pressure to build up in the middle ear. Chewing gum helps stimulate swallowing, which in turn helps open the Eustachian tubes, allowing air to equalize the pressure in the ears.
Portable Charger/Power Bank: Keep your devices charged during the flight with a portable charger. Many airlines provide USB charging ports, but it's always wise to carry a fully charged power bank, especially on long flights with limited power outlets.
Sanitizing Wipes or Hand Sanitizer: Airplane surfaces, including tray tables and armrests, can harbor germs. Sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer are essential for cleaning your seat area and keeping your hands germ-free during the flight.
Travel Toiletries (Toothbrush, Lip Balm, Tissues): A small toiletry kit can make you feel fresh and rejuvenated during a flight. Toothbrushes, floss pick, eyedrops, small mirror, lip balm, tissues, and deodorant are handy items for a quick refresh, especially if you're traveling overnight or across multiple time zones.
Medications: It is a good idea to carry a small kit of medications when flying such as pain relievers, antihistamines, antacids, eyedrops, etc. Consider including a Ziploc with feminine hygiene products. I also like to have a small mirror in case I get something in my eye.
Entertainment: Keep yourself entertained during the flight with an e-reader/iPad or physical book/magazine. I like to download books, tv shows and movies onto my iPad before the flight in case the in-flight entertainment system is not working or if I have no interest in what it has to offer.
Pen and Travel Documents: A pen is necessary for filling out customs forms or other documentation during the flight. Additionally, having your passport, boarding pass, and travel itinerary organized and easily accessible ensures smooth transitions during layovers or arrivals.
I fit most of these items in my fanny pack and hang it on the tray in front of me for easy access.
In-Flight Essentials are designed to elevate your flying experience by offering comfort, convenience, and health benefits. Whether you're flying for business, leisure, or a long-haul adventure, these items ensure you're ready for a more enjoyable and relaxed journey from takeoff to landing.
Happy flying!