Travel Necessities for Long-Haul Flights
No one likes being stuck in long haul flights. There are just so many things that can make you uncomfortable – uncomfortable seating, restricted leg space, crying babies, snoring co-passengers, among a number of other annoyances. This is so much that can go against you.
If you somehow do manage to fall asleep on the way to the destination, more likely than not you will wake up with a stiff body and a foul mood. Just imagine if you are a frequent traveler who has to survive long, international flights multiple times a week.
But hey, don’t you worry! Here’s a list of the top travel necessities that can make your long haul flights seem a lot more bearable.
A Collapsible Water Bottle
A common issue with long flights is that you tend to get dehydrated faster. Being up in the air for so long can mess up with our skin’s pH levels and even our body. Now, on flights, air hostesses do serve you water, but the tiny cup size may not be sufficient all the time.
It’ll be way more convenient for you to carry a water bottle with you when you leave home. Just give your water bottle to them and politely ask them to fill it. Or, you can fill the bottle in the airport terminal as well. Having a source of water with you will be perfect to keep you hydrated throughout the flight.
Flight-appropriate and Comfortable Clothing
Considering the number of hours you have to spend on a flight, it will be better for you to wear comfortable traveling gear. Replace your jeans with lycra-based pants, your tight, form-fitting shirts with a looser top, your heels for flats or sneakers. Also, since you will be on a flight, don’t forget to carry your hoodie and socks. It’ll be better if you can get your hands (or legs!) on compression socks to aid circulation in your legs. Keeping the look casual and comfortable is a must.
A Soft Sleep Mask
If there is anything good about long flights, it’ll probably be extra time for you to catch up on lost sleep. Unless you have the luxury to travel in a private jet, first-class or business, you can’t have the lights switched off at your convenience. Your co-passenger might want to finish reading a book or, it may just not be time for switching off the lights.
With the help of a good-quality sleep mask, you can easily transport yourself to the dream world. However, make sure that the eye mask doesn’t put too much pressure around your head and does not have a stiff material.
A Cushy Travel Pillow
This is an absolute must-have item for long flights. With the help of a travel pillow, you will be able to sleep as you do at home. You can opt for those conventional U-shaped ones or the newer versions available in the market which look just so comfortable.
Sleeping upright for several hours will leave you feeling exhausted with an achy body. Investing in a comfortable neck pillow can protect you from a strained neck, shoulders or head.
Noise-canceling Headphones or Earplugs
You never know when a crying baby will end up in your flight or maybe you’ll have a heavy snorer beside you. In such cases, noise-canceling headphones or earplugs can be a godsend.
You may get this on the flight but the quality might not be up to the mark.
Tip: Before buying these, ensure that the headphones or earplugs actually do cancel noise.
A Portable Battery Charger
Nearly all of us spend our free time on either our cell phones or kindle. Imagine a situation where all the electronic devices run out of battery. Sounds scary, right?
To avoid these situations it’s better to carry a portable battery charger with you. In the case of long flights especially, you shouldn’t take any chances. The movie selection may not appeal to you, either.
At the moment, there are various portable charger models available in different shapes and sizes. They’re very lightweight as well, so you don’t have to worry about it being too heavy. Investing in a model that offers the facility to charge multiple devices will be wiser as well.
A Just In Case Kit
This kit should include things that you do need and might need.
Keep the mini versions of your everyday necessities such as toothpaste, a brush, hand cream, hand sanitizer, lip balm, and medications in this kit. Opt for a bag that has multiple compartments without being too heavy or bulky.
Snacks to Munch On
Having your favorite snack in your bag will always be smart – traveling or not. Yes, you do get food on flights, but nothing beats the taste of your favorite chocolate mid-air. Again, keep a few mini versions of chocolates, biscuits, or cookies in your bag for those sudden cravings.
Face Care Essentials
As mentioned before, long flights can mess up our skin’s pH levels. Not only can it become dehydrated, but it may also break out. Use your time on the flight for pampering your skin by indulging in hydrating and nourishing face masks. This will keep your skin supple, smooth and glowing. Nowadays, beauty companies are especially offering face masks that are travel-friendly and suitable for different skin types. You can also keep a face moisturizer in your bag in case your skin feels too dry. You don’t want to look too ashy as soon as you step out of the flight.
Resources — Lifehack, Buzzfeed
