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What To Pack On A Long Flight: Carry-On Essentials For A Smooth Landing

Not sure what to pack on a long flight? Don’t fret, I got you covered! Traveling by air can be a stressful experience, especially when it’s a long flight. Long flights often involve hours of sitting in uncomfortable seats with limited legroom. Plus, there are many amenities that you may not have access to while on board the plane. 

The key to having an enjoyable and comfortable flight is being prepared for unexpected delays or turbulence and packing the right items in your carry-on luggage.

This blog post will provide tips on what essential items you should include in your carry-on bag. Whether you are taking a plane to Paris, Amsterdam, or Positano, with these plane essentials, you can arrive at your destination refreshed!

So buckle up and let’s have a smooth landing. 

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What To Pack On A Long Flight Toiletries

Toiletries for What to pack on a long flight photo.

There are many items that you should include in your carry-on bag when traveling on a long flight. Find out what to pack on a long flight for all your toiletries. 

Daily Synbiotic

I never travel without Seed‘s. It is a synbiotic in capsule form that combines probiotics – and prebiotics. I don’t know about you but my system seems to get “backed up” when traveling. Seed DS-01® helps to support my digestive health and regularity. My body feels great! It is also vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, and more – so no excuses to have Seed travel with you. It’s small enough to fit in your carry-on bag but has the potential to make a big difference in how you feel after landing.  If you’re interested in trying, use my code ERINCOHEN for 20% off your first month’s supply!

Lip Balm

Lip balm should not be overlooked in the toiletries bag when preparing for a long flight. The dry air inside the airplane cabin can leave lips feeling chapped and uncomfortable.  So having some moisture on hand is crucial. 

Thankfully, countless options are available on the market, ranging from medicated balms to those with a tint to add color to your pout. Plus, lip balm is easy to pack and can be carried on in your personal item, making it a simple and essential addition to any travel itinerary. 

Don’t let dry; cracked lips put a damper on your journey – be sure to pack lip balm for a smoother, more comfortable flight.

My favorite lip balm is from Laneige! It lasts a very long time and gives your lips the best hydration when on the plane.

Toothbrush & Toothpaste

Toothbrush and toothpaste are must-haves on any lengthy flight. We love packing ours in our carry-on bag. After long flights its nice to be able to brush our teeth during a layover or right when we get off the plane at our destination. Make sure to pack a travel-size toothbrush and toothpaste so that they will only take up a little room in your bag!

Hand Sanitizer

No matter how clean an airplane cabin may seem, there are germs on all surfaces – including the armrests and tray tables! By packing a travel-size hand sanitizer you can keep your hands clean and free of potentially harmful bacteria. 

Our favorite that we use religiously and pack for our long flights is from Touchland. They have amazing scents and they have unscented as well if you’re sensitive to fragrances.

Facial Spray

Long flights can leave your skin feeling dry and uncomfortable. We always pack a facial essence spray to give us a quick spritz to keep our skin hydrated on long flights. A few spritzes always bring us instant relief and a sense of refreshment!

Our favorite and go-to is from Mario Badescu. We don’t only use it for flights, but every day as well to give our face a nice refreshing spritz! You will be hooked after one try!

Moisturizer

Dry air can also wreak havoc on your face, leaving your skin feeling tight and uncomfortable. Be sure to pack a good moisturizer in your carry-on bag! It will help keep the skin hydrated and nourished throughout the flight. 

Depending on how long you are traveling, it may be beneficial to bring two different types of moisturizers.  Bring one lighter formula for during the day and a heavier one for nighttime use.

Our favorite is from Tula which is suitable for all skin types. We love the travel kit because it not only comes with moisturizer but a facial cleanser and scrub as well.

Clothing Packing List For A Long Flight

What to pack on a long flight photo of a carry on.

Depending on the length of your flight, you may need to plan ahead and bring extra clothing items. If the journey is longer than eight hours, make sure to include a cozy hoodie or sweatpants for when the cabin temperature drops. 

Additionally, wearing comfortable shoes that can be easily slipped off during security checks is always good practice but still provide support during the flight. Finally, bring a scarf or airplane blanket to keep you warm and comfortable throughout the journey!

Change Of Clothes

If your travels will be for more than one day, bringing a change of clothes in your carry-on bag is always a must and no-brainer. This will always ensure that you have something fresh and clean to wear at the end of the flight so that you don’t have to suffer for long hours in the same outfit.

Panties

Packaging extra underwear in your carry-on bag for a long flight is always wise. Not only is it important to have clean and dry undies, but you’ll also want them close at hand if there are any unexpected delays or missed connections.

Be sure to pack a small bag in your carry-on to put the old undies in so it’s not touching your items.

Socks

Like underwear, it’s a good idea to pack an extra pair of socks in your carry-on bag for long flights. This will help keep feet comfortable and warm – especially if the plane cabin gets chilly. 

Additionally, having a spare pair of clean socks at the ready is always a plus when you’re traveling!

Long Plane Ride Essentials For Sleeping

Photo of a sleeping mask something for what to pack on a long flight.

We all can agree long flights can be tiring I’m sure. Getting enough rest is important, but can be difficult when on a plane. Be sure to bring a neck pillow, eye mask, earplugs, and a blanket so you can sleep as comfortably as possible on the plane. These items have saved us with all the traveling we do.

However, if you plan on sleeping through most of the flight, be sure to pack snacks in case you get hungry!

Travel Pillow

A travel pillow is a great item to help keep your head in the most comfortable position possible, especially during long flights. 

Make sure to look for one that can easily be folded up and stored away, as you want it to leave all the space in your carry-on!

We travel a lot and have gone through many travel pillows. However, our favorites from our travels that we have kept are from BCOZZY.

Noise Cancelling Headphones

Let’s be real here, airplanes can get loud! One essential item to pack is a pair of noise-canceling headphones. These headphones work by blocking out external noise, such as the hum of airplane engines or chatty seatmates. Which, you will enjoy some peace and quiet. 

Additionally, they can be used to listen to music or watch in-flight entertainment without disturbing others. Investing in a good pair of noise-canceling headphones can make all the difference on a long flight.

Blanket

A comfortable blanket is also essential for long flights. Pack a lightweight travel blanket to stay warm during the journey and provide extra cushioning when sleeping or relaxing in your seat. 

We hate nothing more than being cold on a plane and this travel blanket keeps us snug and warm. My favorite is the pink one, but they have other colors. The blue is my husband’s favorite.

Sleeping Pills

Consider packing some sleeping pills if you’re a light sleeper. However, as always be sure to consult with your doctor before taking any medication to ensure it is safe for you. Just be sure to check the airline regulations regarding carrying medications in your carry-on. This can vary from airline to airline.

The best ones we have tried are from OLLY! We usually have long flights and these sleeping pills help me sleep most of the flight. I’m obsessed with the strawberry flavor.

Other Items To Pack On A Long Flight

Laptop and toy plane.

Here are some other items if you are still considering what to bring on a long flight:

Portable Charger

A portable charger is essential for long flights to keep all your devices charged. We personally use our phones during flights for work constantly and wouldn’t want to arrive at our destination with a dead phone.

Clutch is our go-to portable charger that we take with us everywhere! It is lightweight and keeps our phones charged.

Luggage Tracker

We pack a lot of luggage, especially since our carry-on is full of photography gear and our essentials. Being content creators we need our bags when we arrive with all of our clothing we planned for content. Having our AirTag handy so we know our bag’s whereabouts and provides peace of mind that all your belongings are safe and sound. 

With this device, you’ll never have to worry about losing any of your luggage and will know exactly where it is.

Reusable Water Bottle

Forget about buying a plastic water bottle every time you’re thirsty on the plane. Instead, we pack a reusable water bottle in our carry-on bag. Not only does it help the environment, but saves you money since most airports and airplanes have free water-filling stations where you can fill up your container.

Pen

Always bring a pen with you when traveling by plane. While not essential, it can be a pain looking for one to fill out immigration or customs forms. Additionally, having a pen is always useful if you need to jot down any information while on the plane, such as seat numbers or flight times.

Snacks

Snacks are a must for long flights, especially if you’re looking to save money on in-flight food. Pack snacks that will last the entire journey and won’t require refrigeration or heating. Some great options we enjoy include dried fruit, nuts, crackers, cereal bars, and trail mix.

Laptop and/or Camera

Having a laptop or camera can help pass the time on flights. Bring your laptop and use it to work, watch movies, listen to music, or even play video games. 

If you prefer taking photos, bring along your camera and capture some amazing shots from high up in the sky!

What To Pack On A Long Flight Conclusion

What to pack on a long flight largely depends on the individual and their personal preferences. However, by packing these essential items in your carry-on bag, you can make sure that you arrive at your destination feeling refreshed!  You will be ready to take on whatever new adventures await! 

With a few simple precautions, long flights can be just as enjoyable as shorter ones – with much less stress involved. So what are you waiting for? Start packing now! 

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