When we say we like traveling, we most likely refer to the activities we get to enjoy the destinations and not really the journey getting there. Traveling can be difficult, especially the long haul ones. Having the right carry on essentials for long flights is a good start to make the experience less stessful and more enjoyable.
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If you're nervous about flying, there are a few things you can do to help conquer your fear and make your flights more enjoyable. One of the best ways to overcome flight anxiety is to take a fear of flying course. This will teach you everything from how to relax before takeoff to how to deal with common fears like turbulence. It can also help you understand what's going on around you during flight, which can reduce the fear of unexpected events.
Additionally, make sure you have all the necessary items with you when travelling by air. This includes medications for anxiety and sleep problems, snacks and drinks, headphones, and a book or movie to pass the time. And last but not least, remember that no one is perfect and some people find it helpful to talk about their feelings about flying with a friend or family member before departure.
If you’re anxious about an approaching international flight, whether it’s your first time or not, knowing your carry on essentials for long flights will make your overall trip more fun and exciting.
13 Carry On Essentials for Long Flights You Need to Pack
The misery of painfully confined legs and aching necks, not getting enough sleep and some incessant anxiety attacks; this is what they experience when they are on long flights. Plane rides have become much more comfortable compared to what it was before. But that does not change the fact that being stuck on a plane seat for hours, high up in the skies can be a real struggle. This could become even more challenging if you are in the economy class where seats are smaller.
Because traveling is one of the essential experiences one could ever have, here is a list of some of the carry on essentials for long flights you may want to pack.
1. Gadget for entertainment
One of the perks of living in the modern world is being able to find an easy means of entertainment. Most airlines today have Wi-Fi and even charging ports in the plane in order to get connected. You can chat with someone from home or with people you anticipate to see hours later when you finally arrive. But even though you don’t have a Wi-Fi connection, you are able to use your laptop to do other tasks. Or use you can use your smartphone to play games or just listen to music.
2. Earplugs and earphones
If keep getting distracted by a passenger who speaks as if he has swallowed a speaker grinds your gears, you can block the noise around you by using earplugs or earphones. You can also use earphones to listen to music or to watch movies on your gadgets.
3. Snacks
While airlines do offer you some options to eat, they’re usually expensive or not delicious at all. You may want to pack some satisfying snacks like protein bars and some quick to grab healthy chips.
4. Reading materials
Whether you prefer reading eBooks or if you like it the conventional way, having something to read on while waiting for your plane to land. If there is a book you have been planning to finish reading and just couldn’t start due to your busy schedule, this would be a perfect time.
5. Pen and paper
If you love writing, then being on a plane for a long period of hours might just be the best time for you to let your creativity flow. It could also be the best time to do some planning or any form of journaling.
6. Sleep Kit
If you are on a long haul flight, and you do not want to deal with jet lag, then getting some sleep is something you would need. But the problem is, between crying babies, and bright lights, falling asleep is next to impossible. Here is when a travel kit comes to the rescue. A sleeping kit usually consists of a travel pillow, ear plugs, and sleeping mask.
Flights can get unimaginably freezing. A blanket is your ally on lengthy nonstop flights. It can help you get settled in, be more comfortable, and enjoy an uninterrupted rest. If you’re an anxious passenger, a good custom photo blanket printed with a picture of your pet, loved one, favorite character, or any image with sentimental value can be a great source of emotional support.
7. Hairbrush and Hair Tie
There is something about long haul flights that turn your beautiful locks into a big hot mess. Planes are also known for hair static. Bringing a hairbrush and hair tie, however, can set everything in its place. It’s a good idea to brush your hair a couple of times.
8. Powerbank
Today, no one plans to leave their house for more than 24 hours without a power bank or a portable battery charger. However, you must be careful how big your battery pack is as some airlines have a limit on what you can carry. Power banks have a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which means you will have a size limit of 100Wh.
9. Thick socks
No one wants to spend a long haul flight with their freezing feet! So, if you want to avoid this, have some thick travel socks handy for you. So, it’s not surprising why airlines usually include a pair in their travel kits given to every passenger. But usually, they are not the thickest or the best quality, so if you want to maximize your comfort, it’s better to bring your own.
10. Scarf or Travel Wrap
Unfortunately, airplane cabins, don’t give out a temperature forecast, so, it’s best to prepare yourself for some cold. You can always plan what to wear before your flight, but having an extra layer on your body would make your flight extra comfortable regardless of how cold it is.
11. Disinfecting Wipes
Getting sick during your travel can surely ruin the entire experience. So, don’t take a risk! Don’t forget to wipe down your seat, seat table, and all things you lay your hands on using disinfecting wipes that kill the bacteria. And perhaps give some to your seatmates, as well.
12. Face and Skin Essentials
If you want to stay fresh when you landed, then cleansing and moisturizing are things you want to do during the trip. You may want to remove your makeup for your in-flight stay and just reapply it later if you want. Using a face mask to keep your face moisturize is also a good idea. This might be a weird idea for some, but by doing so you will have a softer and dewier face as you land the airport. You may also want to keep your body hydrated by putting on lotion on your feet, hand, and limbs.
13. Sleeping Aids
If you have trouble falling asleep when on the road, then getting help from sleeping aid would not be a bad thing. These are a good solution for overnight flights and red-eyes, and also for those who worry about jet lags. Pop a pill as the plane takes off, and then you can expect to doze off after 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the type of medicine as well as the dosage.
Some of the most common pills available are diphenhydramine, but if you want something stronger, then doxylamine is the one for you. On the other hand, if you are one of the lucky people who can easily fall asleep wherever they are, then popping melatonin that will make you sleep better could be a better option.
What listed above are only 13 of the most useful carry on essentials for long flights you can pack for your trip. Depending on your lifestyle and reference, you can add or remove any items you want from this list. If you have suggestions on what to bring that we were not able to mention in this article, don’t hesitate to let us know in the comment box below!
If you want more tips and advice that will benefit you on your upcoming trip, ForTravelista team put up more articles in this blog to help you have a smooth-sailing adventure.