10 Travel Essentials You Need on a Long Distance Flight

Packing the right essentials for your long-distance flight can make all the difference in how comfortable and enjoyable your journey is. Yes, as everyone does, you might need to pack everything you could ever need, even if the circumstances have a 1% chance of having. Better to be safe than sorry, right? Wrong! Rather than being safe, learn to be smart! Here are 10 travel essentials you need on a long-distance flight.

Neck Pillow and Eye Mask

A neck pillow and eye mask will allow you to rest comfortably on your flight. Neck pillows support your head and neck, while an eye mask blocks light. Choose a pillow and mask that suit your preferred sleeping position. U-shaped pillows offer a cradled feel, while eye masks that fully block light are best for long flights. Eye masks can help keep the sunlight away if it does hurt your eyes or even electronic lights inside the plane when you're trying to get some rest, 

Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Noise-canceling headphones are a must for any long-distance flight. They block out excess noise from the plane's engines and fellow passengers. Did you know that many people often suffer from ringing while flying? Noise-canceling headphones can help with that trouble too! Over-ear models tend to be very effective at noise cancellation. Look for comfortable, lightweight headphones with a long battery life per charge.

Reusable Water Bottle

Keep yourself hydrated on a long flight by bringing an empty reusable water bottle. Flights can often be delayed, or you may have a long transition between flights. During this time, it's important to stay hydrated. Once through airport security, you can fill it up at a water fountain. Choose an insulated bottle to keep water cold for the entire flight. Plastic or stainless steel bottles with a wide mouth are most convenient for refilling and drinking during your flight.

Snacks

Long-distance flights typically only include one or two light meals, so bring snacks to supplement. Granola bars, nuts, dried fruit, and crackers are healthy, filling options. Avoid overly smelly snacks out of courtesy to fellow passengers. Also, make sure you read the plane's guidelines so you know what type of snacks are allowed on planes.  Pack any liquids in 3-ounce or smaller containers to comply with carry-on limits. Non-perishable snacks can stay fresh for the whole flight.

Compression Socks

Compression socks or stockings are essential for circulation and comfort on long-distance flights. They apply pressure to your calves and ankles to increase blood flow. For many, it can be difficult to be sitting in one place for hours at a time while flying.  Compression socks reduce swelling, aching, and the risk of blood clots. Over-the-calf socks with 15-30 mmHg strengths are suitable for most travelers. Compression socks provide relief for hours of sitting during long flights.

Blanket and Scarf

A lightweight blanket and scarf keep you warm and cozy in an air-conditioned plane cabin. That might even help when you must wait a while during a delayed flight! Pack a cotton or fleece blanket, and choose a breathable scarf like silk or linen. Cashmere is ideal if you tend to get cold easily. A blanket and scarf allow you to create your ideal temperature without constantly fiddling with air vents.

Hand Sanitizer and Disinfectant Wipes

Keeping your hands clean is important for your health when traveling on long flights. We have all seen the hazards of the pandemic, so it's best to stay safe. Bring hand sanitizer gels or wipes with at least 60% alcohol to sanitize your hands, especially before eating. Disinfectant wipes are ideal for wiping down surfaces like tray tables and touch screens before use. Choose travel-friendly sizes of 3 ounces or less.

Entertainment

Bring books, magazines, tablets, headphones, cards, or handheld games to keep yourself entertained for long periods. Load your devices with films, TV shows, audiobooks, podcasts, music, and games before flying. All these tips are for entertainment if you have a long flight or aren't a fan of planes and need a desperate distraction. Choose entertainment you can immerse yourself in for hours to make time quicker.

Travel Wallet

A travel wallet will keep all your important documents like passport, ticket, ID, credit cards, and money organized in one place. Look for an RFID-blocking wallet to prevent cyber criminals from scanning your personal information. This way, you can be even safer. Choose a wallet with separate pockets for each document, pass, and currency to easily find what you need so that you can take them out without accidentally dropping or losing anything. 

Portable Charger

Since you'll rely on electronics to stay connected and entertained on your long flight, bring a portable charger to recharge. Whether for entertainment purposes or safety, you must always have your cell phone on you. A 10,000 to 20,000 mAh charger will fully recharge most smartphones multiple times. Look for a charger compatible with USB-C and fast charging to minimize recharge time. Keep your portable charger in your carry-on bag for easy access.

Conclusion 

To wrap up, packing essentials like a neck pillow, snacks, blankets, chargers, and entertainment can help ensure your next long-distance flight is enjoyable and comfortable. If you think there are more essentials that this article might have missed out on, note them down and suggests them to friends or family so that they don't make a mistake! Remember to always stay safe and happy travels!