Essential Long-Haul Flight Survival List

OK, so you have an international trip coming up and you’re so excited! But… you’re not excited for the 7+ hour long-haul flight. As an avid traveler and someone who has been on these types of flights many times, I’ve been able to curated my perfect essential long-haul flight survival list to make that flight just a *little* more bearable (since we all can’t be flying business class every time).

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Comfort Essentials You Should Never Fly Without

The key to a great long-haul flight is maximizing comfort in a small space. These items turn your tiny airplane seat into a cozy little corner:

• Neck pillow – Choose a supportive memory-foam option or an inflatable one if you are looking to save space.
• Oversized scarf or travel blanket – Cabins get cold, and this doubles as a pillow or wrap. I personally like a compact travel blanket that fits easily in my personal item baggage.
• Compression socks – Compression socks are a must for reducing swelling, improving circulation, and preventing leg discomfort on flights over 6 hours.
• Eye mask – A blackout mask helps you fall asleep even when the cabin lights stay on. My personal favorite is a weighted eye mask. I notice a difference in how fast I fall asleep!
• Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones – Crying baby? Loud seatmate? Engine noise? Problem solved.
• Cozy socks or travel slippers – Keep your feet warm and comfortable. Bonus points for grips on the bottom walk about the cabin.
• Comfy change of clothes – Think leggings, a soft t-shirt, and a warm layer. Changing midway through the flight feels surprisingly refreshing.
• Foot Hammock – Slightly controversial as some travelers say if you are the seat in front of the foot hammock user, it’s very disruptive, however, I have never had any complaints and find it makes getting comfortable for sleeping easier.

Comfort items take up minimal space but massively improve your in-flight experience, especially when trying to get valuable sleep!

Health & Hydration Essentials

Airplane air is dry, stagnant, and dehydrating. Staying hydrated is one of the best ways to beat jet lag and feel your best upon landing.

• Collapsible water bottle – Bring the water bottle empty through security and fill it before boarding.
• Electrolyte packets – Add electrolytes to your water to stay hydrated throughout the flight.
• Hand sanitizer + sanitizing wipes – Wipe down your tray table, armrests, and seatbelt with sanitizing wipes.
• Hydrating lip balm + travel-size moisturizer – Cabin air sucks moisture from your skin. I recommend reapplying throughout the flight! This is my favorite all-time moisturizer I’ve been using for over 10 years. • Toothbrush + Toothpaste – a small step to make yourself feel cleaner and ready for bed. Just use bottled water to rinse instead of the airplane faucet!
• Melatonin or sleep aids – Optional, but helpful for resetting your internal clock. This is my favorite sleep aid. • Jet lag suppressant – Some may say these jet lag pills are placebo, but the few times I’ve taken them, I have felt pretty good.

You’ll feel significantly more energized when you prioritize hydration during long travel days.

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Tech & Entertainment Essentials

Depending on your airline, the in-flight entertainment may be great… or nonexistent. Don’t rely on Wi-Fi or screens for your entertainment.

• Noise-canceling headphones – My #1 long-haul flight essential.
• Fully charged power bank – Some older planes don’t have USB outlets. I like how small this power bank is.
• Charging cables + international adapter – An essential for international travel! Don’t forget yours!
• Downloaded movies, series & playlists – Streaming on the seat back screen or via Wi-Fi isn’t guaranteed.
• Kindle or paperback book – Perfect for reading during downtime.
• iPad or laptop – For work, editing photos, or watching your own shows. I love traveling with my iPad!

A well-planned tech setup makes the hours fly by… literally.

In-Flight Skincare Routine

You don’t need a 12-step routine at 35,000 feet, but a few thoughtfully chosen products can help you land looking refreshed.

Bring a small pouch with:
• Makeup-removing wipes – I like these single use makeup wipes.
• Hydrating serum
• Nourishing moisturizer • Hand Cream – keep your hands from getting dry in-flight with this Salt & Stone hand cream.
• Lip gloss or balm – This is my all-time favorite lip gloss! Super hydrating.
• Mini deodorant
• Travel toothbrush + toothpaste

Optional: a sheet mask or under eye masks if you feel comfortable using one.

Your skin will thank you when you step off the plane hydrated and glowing—not flaky or tight.

Snacks & Food Essentials

Long-haul airline meals can be hit or miss. Bringing a few of your own snacks ensures you’re never starving mid-flight.

Great options include:
• Protein bars or beef sticks
• Mixed nuts or trail mix
• Fresh fruit (apples, berries, grapes)
• Crackers or pretzels
• Something sweet
• Herbal tea bags or caffeinated one use packs

If you bring produce or meats, just be aware, if you don’t eat it on the plane, you most likely will not be able to bring it through customs!

Organization Essentials

Keeping your carry-on organized can dramatically reduce stress, especially during boarding and customs.

Make sure you have:
• Travel wallet – Store passport, credit cards, Global Entry card, and important documents.
• AirTags – Place an AirTag in your carry-on and checked luggage.
• TSA-friendly liquids pouch – Clear, zippered, and easy to access pouch, plus re-usable.
• Pen – For immigration and customs forms.
• Small tote or belt bag – Keep your essentials near you throughout the flight. This tote bag folds up super small and is great for travel.

Having everything neatly organized helps the entire travel experience run more smoothly.

The “Top 10 Must-Have Essentials” (Quick List)

1. Noise-canceling headphones
2. Compression socks
3. Hydrating skincare essentials
4. Travel pillow
5. Portable charger
6. Electrolyte packets
7. Foot Hammock
8. iPad
9. Sleep Aid
10. Compact Travel Blanket

Final Thoughts: Long-Haul Flights Don’t Have to Be Uncomfortable

With the right essentials, long flights can feel relaxing and even enjoyable. The goal is to stay hydrated, rested, organized, and comfortable from takeoff to landing. Whether you’re heading off on a ski adventure, a summer escape in the mountains, or an international city break, packing smart ensures you arrive feeling refreshed and ready to explore. I hope you enjoyed this essential long-haul flight survival list! Safe Travels!

For more travel guides, view my blog page HERE.