7 essential items to bring with you on a long-haul flight
Long flights are often an unfortunate means to an end when it comes to travel.
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These flights are a test of not only patience but also endurance.
So, put yourself in an upright and locked position and pay attention, because here is our list of the seven essential items that you should bring with you on a long-haul flight.
Slip-on shoes
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A pet peeve of many is the monotonous task of taking off and putting back on one’s shoes while going through security.
A way to make this process more tolerable is investing in a comfortable pair of slip-on shoes.
They are also easier to remove when you are on the plane.
Since your hands and feet tend to swell on flights as a result of inactivity, shoes with more space are the best way to go in terms of comfort.
TOMS are an excellent option for men and women alike. Plus, you get the bonus of supporting the charitable activities of the organization: for every pair of shoes purchased, the company sends a pair to someone in need.
An extra layer
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It is also best practice to bring an extra layer in the likely case that your plane turns into a flying icebox.
This policy goes for socks as well.
Sweaters with hoods serve a dual purpose by operating as a convenient do-not-disturb indicator for flight staff and fellow passengers alike.
If the flight does not get too chilly, the extra layer can also double as a pillow.
Herschel Supply Co. offers a variety of comfy hoodies for men and women as well as unisex options.
Entertainment
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One thing we would suggest is downloading a couple of movies on your laptop or tablet and making sure that your phone is fully charged and updated with music.
Depending on the airline and age of the plane, most will have USB charging available. If not, it is well worthwhile to invest in a portable power bank.
A pen
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Regardless of how you choose to spend your time on the flight, always bring a pen, as you will ultimately need it for customs forms.
This way, you won’t need to test the waters of if your fellow passengers adhere to the “sharing is caring” rule.
Additionally, you never know when inspiration may strike and you need to write something down.
Moisturizer
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Planes are an unforgiving mistress for those with dry skin.
The dry air in the cabin looks for moisture anywhere it can, which is bad news for your skin.
Neutrogena Hydroboost was included on a list regarding ’10 Flight Attendants on the Moisturizers They Can’t Live Without,’ published on the Glamour website.
If those who fly for a living endorse it, it must be good.
However, be sure to account for liquid limits and pack something under 100 ml!
Toothbrush and travel-sized toothpaste
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Travelling and flying can make one feel quite grubby, and teeth are no exception.
Splashing water on your face and brushing your teeth can refresh you right before the end of a flight so that you’ll feel a little bit more like a human when you get to where you’re going.
Sleeping aid
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Many long-haul flights are red eyes (overnight).
Depending on where you’re going, it could be a completely different time of day when you arrive at your destination.
To reorient yourself, a light sleep aid — like melatonin — could be a plausible fix for adjusting hours and have you well-rested upon your arrival.
Sleeping is also a tried and true method for killing time, as well!