45 Long Flight Essentials to Pack in Your Carry-On
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Planning a big trip and not sure what to bring on the plane? These 45 long flight essentials will make your flight much more comfortable and stress-free.
I’ve taken my fair share of long-haul flights. I’m a frequent traveler who’s traveled from NYC to places like Thailand, Japan and Kenya. Some of my travel days have been 18+ hours.
I’ve also had some pretty uncomfortable flight experiences when I didn’t bring the right airplane essentials with me.
For example, that time I boarded a long flight with a depleted phone battery and realized the USB charging port at my seat didn’t work. It was definitely stressful to land in a foreign country without a working phone.
I’ve since learned from my packing mistakes. I now know exactly what to bring in my carry-on bag to make a long-haul flight more bearable.
Keep reading for 45 long flight essentials to pack in your carry-on!
If you want to shop my favorite long flight essentials and other travel products in one place, check out my Amazon storefront.
Carry On Bags + Pouches
1. Backpack
The right carry-on bag is essential for any long-haul flight. It has to fit everything you need, and also be comfortable and easy to carry. This stylish travel backpack is an ideal carry-on bag.
A backpack is the best option for a long travel day. It keeps your hands free for your travel documents (and an airport coffee!). And a backpack is better for your back compared to a duffle or tote, since a backpack more evenly distributes weight.
This travel backpack is also waterproof, comes in many colors, and has lots of pockets and compartments to keep you organized.
2. Travel Duffle
If you aren’t a backpack person, this travel duffle bag is another great carry-on bag. It zips shut, which is one of the most important features of a carry-on bag.
An open tote bag is too risky – it’s easy for items to fall out and get lost at airport security or on the plane. This happened to me once at airport security and I didn’t get the item back. Luckily, it was a cheap dog bowl and not a pricey laptop!
This travel duffle is also water resistant, has a wet pocket for your toiletries, and has a side sleeve that fits over your suitcase handle. It also comes in more than 10 colors.
3. Anti-Theft Travel Handbag
It’s so important to keep your wallet, phone and passport secure when you travel. This anti-theft cross-body handbag keeps you organized on a long day of air travel. It also protects your items when you’re on the ground at your destination.
The security features of this bag include:
- An adjustable cross-body strap, which is the most secure style of purse strap for travel.
- Slash-resistant material.
- Locking compartments to keep your belongings as secure as possible.
If you prefer a slightly smaller handbag, this anti-theft crossbody purse is also a practical and stylish option.
4. Electronics + Cords Organizer
If you buy any of these long flight essentials, it should be this one. This electronics and cords organizer comes with me on every flight.
It holds all of the small electronic items that are essential for a long-haul flight, including charging cords, a power bank, AirPods and an AirFly adaptor (so you can use your wireless earbuds to watch in-flight movies).
I always stash this organizer in my seat pocket as soon as I board the plane. That way, I have the essentials handy to keep me entertained and connected during my flight.
5. Clear Quart-Sized Bag
A clear quart-sized bag for your liquids is essential for long-haul flights. That’s where you’ll pack the liquids and gels you’ll need during the flight, like lip balm, moisturizer, etc.
The TSA’s rules for packing liquids in your carry-on bag are annoying, but we have to follow them. Their “3-1-1 rule” means that each passenger can pack only 1 clear quart-sized bag of liquid, gel and aerosol items in their carry-on bag. Each container of liquids, gels or aerosols must be 3.3 ounces or less.
Airports in the USA don’t provide clear quart-sized bags for you. You must either bring a quart-sized Ziploc-type bag, or you can use a reusable clear quart-sized toiletries bag. A reusable bag is cost effective and better for the environment.
6. Travel Wallet
This travel wallet keeps your passport, boarding pass and credit cards organized on a long and hectic travel day. It has a handy wrist strap, so you can carry it through the airport more easily.
It’s also great for staying organized during the rest of your trip.
7. Belt Bag aka Fanny Pack
Wearing a belt bag is another great way to stay organized at the airport. A belt bag is a convenient and handy place to keep your passport, boarding pass and phone.
A belt bag also keeps your wallet and passport safe from pickpockets when you’re exploring busy, touristy areas.
This stylish belt bag looks a lot like the pricey Lululemon one that’s always sold out! It also comes in tons of colors, so you can choose one that coordinates with your travel outfits.
This belt bag is very similar to the Lululemon sherpa belt bag and is another trendy and practical option. It also comes in multiple colors.
Comfort Essentials for Long-Haul Flights
8. Travel Pillow
Airplane seats are uncomfortable and long flights can lead to a stiff and painful neck. That’s especially true if you’re flying in economy. A comfy travel pillow is essential for any long-haul flight.
This Trtl travel pillow is my favorite travel pillow. It looks more like a neck warmer you’d wear skiing. But, it’s actually a travel pillow that provides excellent neck support.
The Trtl pillow also takes up less space in your luggage compared to a puffy donut style pillow. I don’t get on a long flight without a Trtl travel pillow.
This video shows you how the viral Trtl travel pillow works:
@vickirutwind #stitch with @canadiantravelgal #ad Wait I just got the viral @Trtl Travel pillow too! It’s definitely a travel must have for long flights, and train, car, and bus rides #travelhacks #travel101 #trtltravel #travelmusthave#Inverted ♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim
! own all of the different models: the original, the Trtl Plus and the Trtl Cool:
- I travel with the original Trtl pillow most often. It’s the most compact size and the soft fleecy fabric is cozy on cold airplanes.
- The Trtl Plus is best for tall travelers because it has an added feature: adjustable neck height. It is a little bit bulkier though because of this extra feature.
- The Trtl Cool is similar to the original model, but it’s made with a cooling fabric. But since I’m usually cold on planes, I usually pack the fleecy Trtl original model.
If you prefer a more traditional travel pillow, this memory foam travel pillow also comes with an eye mask and ear plugs.
9. Travel Blanket
Airplanes are usually cold and uncomfortable, which is why a good travel blanket is essential for long-haul flights.
I generally don’t use the travel blankets provided by airlines. I once had an allergic reaction while using an airline blanket. I think the blanket hadn’t been cleaned properly and had pet hair on it. I was miserable for the rest of the flight.
Now, I know to pack my own cozy extra soft travel blanket. This travel blanket also doubles as a pillow when zipped into its case.
Another option is to pack a 100% cotton Turkish Towel. Turkish towels are so versatile. You can use one as an airplane blanket, a beach towel, a picnic blanket and more.
10. Sleep Mask
A sleep mask is another airplane essential for a long-haul flight. It’s much easier to sleep on a plane with a sleep mask blocking out the light.
This set of 2 silk masks is a great choice for you and your travel buddy. They’re silky soft, have an adjustable strap and effectively block out the light.
11. Ear Plugs
Ear plugs are another must have for a long flight. Crying baby? Chatty passengers on a red-eye flight? No problem. Ear plugs block out that noise so you can sleep soundly.
This set of ear plugs also comes with a handy carrying case for travel.
12. Portable Airplane Foot Rest
This is one long flight essential I bet you’ve never thought of, but it’s a game changer. This portable airplane foot rest is a hammock for your feet that attaches to the seat in front of you.
It elevates your feet to make traveling in economy class much more comfortable. It also helps improve blood circulation in your legs while flying.
This foot rest is especially helpful if you’re short. I’m 5’2 and find it hard to fully sit back on airplane seats and also rest my feet on the floor. This portable foot rest solves that problem.
13. Compression Socks or Cozy Socks
The number one unofficial rule of air travel: wear socks. In U.S airports you have to remove your shoes to go through airport security. You don’t want to forget your socks and be stuck walking barefoot through airport security.
Plus, it’s a real faux-pas to be sitting in-flight in your bare feet. Not only will your feet be freezing, but your neighbors really don’t want to see (or smell) your bare feet.
Compression Socks are Long Flight Essentials
Compression socks are essential for long-haul flights. Compression socks promote circulation in your legs when you’re in the air, prevent swelling, fight leg fatigue and help deter potential blood clots from forming.
I’ve recently started wearing these Dr. Scholl’s compressions socks on my long flights. After my flights to Taiwan and Singapore, my feet and ankles definitely looked and felt less swollen than usual.
I bought a two pack so I have a clean pair for both my departure and return flights.
Cozy Socks are an Airplane Essential
If you don’t want to wear compression socks, you should at least wear a pair of soft, cozy socks on your next long flight. They’ll keep your feet nice and warm on a chilly airplane.
14. Comfortable Travel Outfit
A comfortable travel outfit is essential for long-haul flights. I like to wear a layered outfit that’s loose-fitting and warm, but doesn’t look like sloppy PJs.
This two-piece knit set for women is chic but also comfortable.
This comfy two-piece set is another great outfit option for long flights.
I recommend layering your travel outfit over a breathable cotton t-shirt. An outfit with layers is essential for long-haul flights, because you can’t control the temperature on the plane.
Plus, if you’re traveling to a warm weather destination, you can remove some layers upon arrival. That way, you won’t be overheated while you’re in transit to your hotel.
15. Easy to Remove Boots or Shoes
Comfortable shoes or boots are definitely long flight essentials. And you want to choose a pair that’s easy to remove and put back on at airport security.
I was thrilled when UGG boots came back into style. They’re my all time favorite footwear for flying. They’re warm and cozy, and also easy to take off and put back on at airport security.
UGGs are also forgiving if your feet swell a bit in-flight.
If you like the look of UGG boots but not the price, you can also get look-a-like boots for less, like this pair.
16. Scrunchies or Other Hair Ties
A soft scrunchie or other hair tie is essential for a long flight. If you have long hair, you’ll be much more comfortable with your hair tied back. It’s a good idea to bring more than one, in case your hair tie falls out or breaks.
I like these satin scrunchies because they do the job without damaging your hair.
Essential Electronics for Long Flights
17. Noise Cancelling Headphones
The headsets airlines give you have terrible sound quality. And in economy class, you’ll probably have to pay for them.
Plus, they don’t block out background noise. So you’ll be stuck watching movies with crying babies and loud conversations in the background.
Noise cancelling headphones are long flight essentials, so you can watch movies and shows in peace.
Apple AirPods Pro
My favorite noise cancelling headphones are Apple AirPods Pro. They’re wireless, compact, and comfortable to wear.
You can even use your Apple AirPods Pro with the in-flight entertainment system by pairing them with an AirFly adaptor.
Bose QuietComfort Noise Cancelling Earbuds
Bose also makes a great pair of noise cancelling wireless earbuds.
Beats Studio3 Noise Cancelling Headphones
If you prefer over-ear headphones, these Beats Studio3 Noise Cancelling Headphones are a great option. I personally am an AirPods girl, but I know over-ear headphones are very on trend!
Affordable Noise Cancelling Headphones
If you’re looking for a more affordable pair of noise cancelling headphones, this pair has great reviews.
18. AirFly
Now that you have noise canceling headphones for your flight, this little gadget called the AirFly will let you use them with the in-flight entertainment system.
The AirFly adaptor plugs into the in-flight entertainment system. Then, it connects with your wireless headphones via Bluetooth. And voila, you can watch movies on the in-flight entertainment system using your wireless headphones.
I own the AirFly Pro, which works with two sets of headphones and has the longest battery life:
There’s also a more basic and affordable version that works with just one set of headphones:
This video shows you how the AirFly adaptor works. I never fly without mine!
@vickirutwind This find and my other travel must-haves are all in my Amazon storefront! #amazonfinds #travelmusthaves #airfly #inflightentertainment ♬ Chillest in the Room – L.Dre
19. E-Reader or Tablet
If there’s one thing about me, it’s that I’m an avid reader. When I’m on a long flight, you’ll often find me reading instead of watching movies.
Some of my favorite authors to read on the plane are Sarah J. Maas (fantasy/romance), Cassandra Clare (urban fantasy) and Colleen Hoover (contemporary romance).
Many of their books are long, so the print copies are heavy. It’s much easier to bring a lightweight e-reader on the plane, rather than lugging around heavy books.
Kindle Paperwhite
My favorite e-reader is the Kindle Paperwhite. It’s the closest you can come to reading a paper book.
The screen has a glare-free display. That means it reads like real paper, even in bright sunlight. It works great on the beach.
I also like that it doesn’t have social media apps or email on it. It’s only for reading books. That way, you can focus on your book instead of getting distracted by TikTok, work emails, etc.
iPad Mini
An Apple iPad Mini is a great choice if you want a tablet with more functionality than a Kindle Paperwhite. You can read books, check your emails, watch movies on your flight, and more.
20. Phone Mount
This phone mount is handy if you prefer to watch movies or shows on your phone during a flight. Maybe there’s a specific show you want to finish, or the in-flight movie selection isn’t great.
The phone mount also is useful if you’re flying a budget airline that doesn’t offer in-flight entertainment systems.
It clips to the seat in front of you, so you can comfortably watch movies and shows on your phone hands-free.
21. Portable Charging Bank
A portable charging bank is one of the most important long flight essentials. Being stuck on a long flight with a dead phone or iPad battery is so frustrating when you want to read or watch a show.
Unfortunately, not all airplanes have USB charging ports. I’ve also been stuck on a long flight where the charging port at my seat was broken.
That’s why I bring this lightweight charging bank when I travel. It’s easy to toss in my carry-on before a long flight and it reliably holds about 2 full charges of my iPhone.
22. USB Charging Cord
A USB charging cord is another long flight essential. It’s so important to keep your devices charged while in-flight.
You’ll want a fully-charged phone when you land. It’s much safer and easier to navigate a new place when you have access to your phone and navigation apps like Google maps.
I’ve learned from experience to bring this Apple brand charging cable. Off-brand charging cables don’t work for very long before my iPhone starts to reject them!
Sanitizing Airplane Essentials
23. Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is a must have for a long flight. Especially if you’re in the middle or window seat and the person in the aisle seat is fast asleep.
Using hand sanitizer is easier than waking up the aisle seat passenger, or awkwardly climbing over them to wash your hands in the airplane bathroom. I like this TikTok famous hand sanitizer – it works great and the packaging is cute.
24. Disinfectant Wipes
A small pack of disinfectant wipes is another long flight essential. I use them to wipe down the tray table and other airplane surfaces. I recently learned that these usually aren’t cleaned between flights – yuck!
You can also use them on your hands if you forget to pack hand sanitizer.
Toiletries + Beauty Essentials for Long-Haul Flights
25. Lip Balm
The dry air on planes and changes in altitude can cause chapped lips or make them worse. Be sure to pack your favorite lip balm – it’s a long flight essential.
I couldn’t survive a long-haul flight without reapplying my lip balm multiple times! And any time I’ve forgotten to bring lip balm, I’ve spent the entire flight thinking about how badly I need to apply lip balm.
I like this Aquaphor lip balm because it’s extremely hydrating.
26. Hand Lotion
Hand lotion is another long flight essential. Otherwise, your hands will get get chapped quickly. Plane air is so drying.
I have extremely dry skin, so I bring an ultra-rich travel-sized hand cream on flights. This Eucerin lotion is a personal favorite because I have extremely dry skin.
27. Face Moisturizer
The dry air on planes can also wreak havoc on your skin. Make sure to pack your favorite facial moisturizer in your carry-on. Keeping your skin moisturized will help you look fresh-faced when you arrive at your destination.
I like to apply this face moisturizer by Cerave on the plane. It’s a night cream, but I’ll apply it on any long flight, regardless of the time of day.
28. Refillable Travel Bottles
Refillable travel bottles and jars make it easy to bring your favorite beauty products on the plane. Full-size products are usually to big to go through airport security, because of the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule.
These refillable bottles are 3-1-1 rule compliant and perfect for filling with shampoo, conditioner, body wash, or other toiletries. I use them all the time when I travel, and they have never leaked!
These reusable silicone jars are also 3-1-1 rule compliant, and great for bringing your favorite beauty products, like face cream, on a long flight.
29. Skincare Mask
If you want to take your skincare to the next level on a long flight, bring a hydrating face mask.
This Hydrating Overnight Mask is sheer, so you won’t be sitting on the flight with a green or muddy face. The passengers around you won’t know you’re giving yourself a mini facial.
You can also do a hydrating sheet mask during your long flight. Who cares if you look a little silly? You’ll never see the people on your flight again. (Well…unless they’re on your flight home, ha!)
30. Toothbrush and Toothpaste
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Just remember to use bottled water if you plan to brush your teeth on the plane. The water in airplane bathrooms is not drinkable.
31. Retainer/Mouthguard or Other Dental Device
If you’re like me and you wear a retainer, mouthguard or other dental device, bring it with you on the plane. Even if you don’t plan to use it in-flight. You don’t to risk being without it if your checked bag gets lost or delayed.
32. Essential + Over the Counter Medication
You should always pack your essential medications in your carry-on bag when flying. Even if you don’t expect to need it during your flight.
If your checked bag gets lost or delayed , you’ll have your medication with you. Also, you should always bring your prescription medications in the original packaging when you travel.
I also bring over the counter pain relief and allergy medication with me on long flights. That way, I’m prepared if I feel a headache or allergy attack coming on.
Food + Drink Essentials for Long-Haul Flights
33. Collapsible Water Bottle
You can’t bring water through airport security. And bottles of water are so overpriced at airport, it feels like a scam.
That’s why a collapsible water bottle is a long flight essential. Most airports have free water fountains where you can fill up your water bottle after airport security.
I like this collapsible water bottle because it folds up so small and is very lightweight.
As you can see in this video, the collapsible water bottle is soft-sided but it stands up on its own when full. So you can place it on your tray table during long fllights.
@vickirutwind Shop this collapsible water bottle and other travel finds in my Amazon storefront. Bottled water at the airport is way too expensive. Instead, bring your own portable, collapsible water bottle. This one from Amazon is so easy to pack in your carry-on or hand bag #amazonfinds #founditonamazon #amazonmusthaves #travelmusthaves ♬ original sound – Vicki Rutwind / NYC + Travel
34. Your Favorite Snacks
Airplane food is so hit or miss these days. It’s always a good idea to pack your favorite snacks for a long flight. My favorite airplane snacks are anything cheese flavored!
I also like to bring a protein-based snack to keep me feeling full. These grass-fed beef sticks are one of my favorite protein snacks. The jalapeño flavor is my favorite, but the original is delicious too.
35. Gum or Breath Mints
Gum and breath mints are absolute essentials for long-haul flights, so you can freshen your breath at your seat. Plus, chewing gum or mints can help relieve the pressure in your ears when flying.
36. Liquid IV
Flying can easily make you dehydrated. And the beverage cart doesn’t come by often enough on long flights. I’m also one of those people who rarely drinks enough water. I know, I know. It’s bad. That’s why I like to pop a packet of Liquid IV in my carry-on bag.
Liquid IV is an electrolyte powder you can add to beverages to help you rehydrate faster than drinking water alone. I like to add it to my water on long flights to help me stay hydrated.
Other Long Flight Essentials
37. Tissues
A travel pack of tissues is a long flight essential if you’re prone to a runny nose, like me. Tissues are also a lifesaver if you spill something while in-flight.
38. Pen
A pen is a long flight essential that’s easy to forget in this digital age. But, some destinations still make you fill out paper customs and immigration forms. So, don’t forget to pack a pen in your carry-on!
39. Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses
If you wear glasses or contact lenses, don’t forget to bring them on your long flight! If you wear dailies contacts, it’s a good idea to bring a couple of extra pairs on your flight.
40. Change of Clothes + Underwear
If you’re traveling to a different climate, bring a change of clothes and underwear in your carry-on. If your checked luggage is delayed, at least you’ll have a change of clothes that’s appropriate for the weather at your destination.
I learned this the hard way. I once flew to sunny Mexico from freezing Canada in December. I landed in winter clothes and my checked bag was delayed until late that night. It was pretty uncomfortable hanging out at a beach resort in sweatpants and winter boots!
41. Swimsuit (for Warm Weather Destinations)
If you’re traveling to a warm destination, bring a swimsuit in your carry-on. As I mentioned above, I learned this the hard way when my luggage didn’t arrive in Mexico!
If your flight arrives before your hotel’s check-in time, having a swimsuit in your carry-on will also come in handy. Then, you can hit the pool or beach until your room is ready.
42. Flip-Flops (for Warm Weather Destinations)
If you’re packing a swimsuit in your carry-on, bring a pair of flip-flops too. Otherwise you’ll be like me and my sister who were stuck in sunny Cancun with just our winter boots. We made quite the unfashionable pair at the resort that day!
43. Your Travel Documents
Be sure to pack your passport, work or travel visas, and any other necessary travel documentation for your trip.
Some countries require you to obtain a travel visa, or fill out pre-travel forms online. Don’t forget to research these requirements before your flight!
You should also pack a paper copy of your passport in your carry-on bag. If you lose your passport while you’re in transit, you’ll be grateful to have a hard copy with you. Especially if your phone battery is drained when you land.
It’s also a good idea to keep a digital copy of your passport stored in the cloud. That way, you can access it even if your bag and phone get stolen.
44. Your Accommodation Details/Address
When you enter a new country, you usually need to fill out a customs and immigration form. Many of those forms ask you to provide the name and address you’ll be staying at during your trip.
Be sure to have these details handy during your flight, otherwise you’ll be scrambling to fill out the forms while standing in the immigration line.
45. Proof of Your Return Flight
Many countries will not let you enter as a visitor unless you have a return ticket booked. They want to make sure you aren’t going to overstay your welcome.
I have a friend who who was denied entry into Canada from the USA because she hadn’t booked a return ticket. So, make sure to have your return flight details handy in case you’re asked for them!
Long Flight Essentials: Final Thoughts
That wraps up my list of 45 long flight essentials. Travel days can be tiring and stressful, but these essentials for long-haul flights will make your travel day more comfortable.
These travel essentials will keep you entertained, hydrated, comfy and moisturized on your next long travel day. That way, you’ll arrive at your final destination well-rested and ready to explore.
