Are you going on a long flight and need help figuring out what to pack in your carry-on bag? You are at the right place! I have been on so many long flights, and it took me more than a dozen flights to finally figure out what I needed to pack in my carry-on. Learn from my experience because I know that being cramped up in one seat for twelve-plus hours is so hard, and to keep yourself, you need to have these essentials. I have divided everything into four categories based on which activity will require which specific things.
Entertainment
First, let's discuss what will keep you entertained on your long flight.
1. Noise Cancelling Headphones
You might ask why one must bring their headphones when they give you one on the plane. Trust me, you cannot rely on those. Have your noise-cancelling headphones to enjoy movies or music without any disruption.
2. Kindle or A Book
Reading books is the best activity on the plane when you have so much time. Have your favourite book in your carry-on so that you can read it, or if you feel like you can read more than two books, carry a Kindle as it will take up less space.
3. Laptop
The laptop is optional, but you might need it to catch up on your office work, or you can download movies beforehand if you don't like the film on the plane.
Health and Skincare Items
The plane environment provides a high chance of getting contaminated, so keep these things with you to keep yourself fresh and clean.
1. Hand Sanitizer and Wipes
As soon as you get in your seat, clean the sides and screen with antibacterial wipes and keep cleaning your hands with hand sanitizer because you never know which germs you are prone to.
2. Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Though they give you toothbrushes, toothpaste, and other toiletries on the plane, it is better to have your own so that you can freshen up and land feeling more active when you wake up.
3. Moisturizer and Lip Balm
Aeroplanes are very dry, and you must moisturize repeatedly when travelling on such long flights. Keep a lip balm, moisturizer, or some sheet masks to keep you hydrated on the plane and when you land.
4. Chewing Gum or Mints
Chewing gum or mints is a necessity when travelling. It keeps your breath fresh and helps equalize pressure when the plane is taking off, landing or turbulent.
5. Medicine Kit
You should have a first aid kit with some essential medicines with you. Also, if you are taking any prescribed drugs, keep them in your carry-on because even if you don't want them on your flight, it takes some to get your luggage back. Essentials for sleeping You will sleep on a long flight, so why not make it comfortable by packing these things in your carry-on bag?
1. Travel Pillow
I was one of those who thought travel pillows were of no good. But ever since I used them while travelling, my neck has never been more thankful. You can opt for smaller ones if they are too bulky. They are equally comfortable.
2. Sleeping Eye Mask and Earplugs
What will you do if you are on a night flight and the person sitting next to you insists on keeping the light on, or there is a baby next to you? For such situations, it is ideal that you carry your sleeping mask and earplugs for an uninterrupted sleep.
3. A Pair of Socks
It is cold on the plane, and you would want to remove your shoes to sleep. So, have a pair of fuzzy socks to keep you warm when sleeping.
Other Essential Things Some other essential things that you need to have in your carry-on bag are:
1. Travel Wallet and Passport Holder
You can't just throw your passport and other papers with flight details in your huge carry-on bag. You need a travel wallet and a passport holder to keep these things in place and organized.
2. Reusable Water Bottle
Some of you might find it weird because they serve water on the plane, and you can have it as many times as you want, so why take your water bottle? I like having my water bottle on the flight and afterwards at the airport. You can get it refilled whenever you want.
3. A Shawl
The air conditioning on the plane can be too cold for most people, so when you have a spare shawl, you can wear it on your shoulders or use it as an additional blanket.
4. Portable Charger
Some planes have a USB charging port, and some don't, but you can't risk the last minute. So, I prefer to have my portable charger with me, especially on long flights.
5. Outfit Change
It is optional because your clothes get too crumpled on the plane, and you might change into other clothes before landing. Sometimes, the climate of the place you land is different from where you boarded so that you might change into more weather-appropriate clothes.
6. Snacks
How can we miss out on snacks? You might not like the plane food, or it might not be enough for you, so it is best to carry some snacks.
7. A Pen
Lastly, it is fundamental, but it comes in handy. It would be best to have a pen at so many places, whether at passport control or filling out a landing card.
Conclusion
It would help to prepare for everything when travelling, especially during a long flight. These things mentioned above can easily fit in your carry-on bag without making it too heavy. Ensure you don't carry sharp objects or flammable stuff like perfumes in your carry-on bag because these things are not allowed on the plane. Travelling can be tiring, but these things will make it much more manageable. You will stay entertained, fresh and comfy and then reach your destination well-rested and ready to explore. Ensure you have all your essentials in your carry-on and are prepared for a long-haul flight.
