Got a long flight coming up? Today I’m sharing my long-haul flight essentials check list, must-have travel items and tips to ensure you have the most comfortable journey possible. Even if you’re in economy seats… Yes, it is possible!
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We all want to be relaxed during a long-haul flight and that can be challenging if you’re flying for 10+ hours. But there are some essential travel items that can make a long flight a lot more comfortable and your journey a lot less stressful.
I’ve developed my own long haul flight essentials checklist, so let’s gear up and make your next long haul flight a dream.
I’m no stranger to long flights in my 40+ years of travelling with over 50 countries clocked up. I travel for work, as a travel blogger and for pleasure – I’ve lost count of the number of long-haul flights I’ve taken.
If I’m really lucky I’m living it up in business class, but more often it’s economy class so I’ve made it my mission to make long-haul flights as comfortable as possible. I’m still dreaming of that first class seat!
Over the years I’ve tried and tested many travel items and hacks. I’m pretty much an expert in getting the best possible flight experience wherever I happen to be sitting and whichever airline. Hello Easyjet!
Today, I’m sharing those tips with you. You can thank me when you hit the ground running after your next long flight.
Before your long haul flight
Contents
It’s not all about what’s in your hand luggage. There will be travel admin that needs to be taken care of before your trip. Knowing that it’s all sorted will help you relax on your flight and arrive in your destination calm and stress free.
Passport, Visas and Entry Forms
Ensure you’ve sorted any online arrival forms and travel documents. For instance, British travellers heading to the USA will need an ESTA, if you’re going to the Philippines, you’ll need to register with eTravel Philippines before flying and from 2026 UK travellers visiting most European countries will need an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) before their trip.
Travel Insurance
Insurance is essential. I never travel anywhere without travel insurance. It gives me total peace of mind on my travels knowing that my trip and my property are covered and so is any emergency healthcare I might need while I’m away. Heymondo is my personal preference.
Passport
Make copies of your passport, insurance and other important documents and keep them separate from your original documents. You might want to get an RFID wallet to protect your credit cards. Bring a pen for completing your landing card.
Keep important items like your passport close to you on your flight and not in the overhead bin. That way you can sleep easy on your flight.
Apple Air Tags
I’ve been using No products found. for the past few years. These give me peace of mind knowing where my luggage is in the world. I recently had a 12 hour layover but had checked my hold luggage right through to my destination. It was good to know that it had been loaded onto my second flight.
You can also track your luggage if it’s been lost and stolen making getting it back a lot less stressful.Get your No products found. and keep tabs on your possessions.
Jet Lag
If you’re travelling to a different time zone then try and gradually adjust your sleep by an hour or two in the days before you fly. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and this should help your circadian rhythms adjust more easily when you arrive in your final destination.
Your Carry-on Bag
As we’re talking long-haul flights here I’m assuming you’ll have checked luggage and can load up your hand luggage with everything you might need during your flight. I prefer a tote bag that’s roomy, with plenty of pockets, laptop section and with easy top access with a zip, like this bag…
I prefer not to use a carry-on suitcase because they’re heavier and not very flexible. I’m short so it can be difficult lifting them into the overhead locker. Whichever carry on luggage you choose check that it fits within your airline’s sizing and dimension regulations.
A backpack is also a good option for hand luggage because it leaves your hands free and the weight is evenly distributed whilst walking. Check out my backpack buying guide to help you decide which is best for you.
Long haul flight essentials for your carry-on
So now you’ve got your hand-luggage sorted, you’ll need to know what to pack for your long haul flight. Let’s check out my carry-on essentials for the most comfortable flight…
Neck support
I highly recommend the Trtl travel pillow. This innovative neck pillow, together with a sleep mask, has given me a full uninterrupted 6-hours sleep on one overnight flight and many more decent in-flight sleeps over the years.
The Trtl travel pillow supports your neck and head so there’s no head jerks, lolling or stiff necks. It’s a great option when you’re travelling across time zones and need to sleep to help avoid jet lag.
I take my Trtl on any long trip in the car too. I’ve had mine for over ten years. It’s washable, very lightweight and can attach it to your bag with the velcro strip. It’s so much better than the small pillow you’ll find on your seat. The Trtl is a non-negotiable on my long haul flight essentials checklist.
Reusable Water Bottle
I take my HydroFlask whenever I travel. It’s important to stay hydrated during your flight and have a decent amount of water close to hand. Have you noticed that flight attendants only hand out the tinest bottles or just a small cup of water nowadays?
You can fill up your flask at the airport after passing through security. There are often water fountains or you can ask at a cafe or bar. My HydroFlask lid is quite wide so I can pop in a few ice cubes – the best way to keep the water really cold.
Another reason for taking a a reusable flask is that you can use it throughout your trip to avoid single use plastic. Many cities have water fountains in the streets so it’ll save you money too.
Travel blanket, wrap or scarf
I can’t bear being cold on a plane and international flights seem to be particularly chilly. But I also can’t abide the horrible blankets they hand out on planes – they’re thin, bobbly and full of static.
I know I won’t sleep if I’m cold so one of the best long flight essentials I’ve bought is my cashmere wrap. It’s a great option that folds up small, is lightweight, keeps me nice and warm and looks good. Merino wool works well too.
A wide travel scarf will also act as a warm layer and doubles as a cover up for temples/churches or on the beach. This nifty infinity scarf comes with a secret pocket for your valuables.
Noise-Cancelling headphones or wireless airpods
Noise-cancelling headphones are great if you want to catch some in-flight entertainment but even better for drowning out the noise of the aircraft and other passengers. If you prefer something less bulky these noise cancelling earbuds are very neat.
Not all earphones are designed for sleeping so ear-plugs are good for when you just want to get some shut-eye. Go for wax earplugs which are better because they mould to the shape of your ear. They don’t let in as much noise so they’ll help you get some decent sleep.
Power bank or portable charger
Most airlines now have USB ports in the back of seats to charge up your device. But not all. I take my portable charger/power bank because I use my mobile phone a lot when I’m travelling and it’s handy for when I’m on the road. I’ve had mine for two years now and am really happy with it. Don’t forget your charger cable.
Power banks must be packed in your carry-on and not in your hold luggage but check with your airline if they’re allowed. Some airlines have recently started banning them due to safety reasons.
Phone, Camera and Batteries
You’ll need your mobile phone pre-loaded with any travel apps along with your camera and batteries. These all need to be packed in your hand-luggage.
Snacks
Bring some snacks. I can’t sleep if I’m hungry so some healthy nibbles can help. Try and avoid salty snacks that make you thirsty. I always pack a couple of herbal or mint tea bags and some mints. If you’re feeling dehydrated then add eloctrolytes to your water. I use these flavoured electrolytes from Willpowders which really help.
In-flight beauty and cleanliness
Amenity Kit
The amenity pouches that the flight attendants hand out on overnight flights usually come with an eye mask, ear plugs, toothpaste, toothbrush, socks and other various bits and pieces. But it’s all pretty basic. Do what I do and make your own amenity kit! It’s another of my long haul flight essentials.
I like to put my own amenity kit together with products I love and little in-flight treats to elevate my journey. My home-made amenity kit always includes:
- Toothbush, mini toothpaste and mouthwash, toothpick
- Wet wipes
- Lip balm
- Moisturiser
- Eye mask
- Tissues
- Medication and pain relievers
- Hydrating facial mist to combat dry air
- Essential oil to aid sleep
- Hair ties, comb or hairbrush
I’m a big fan of Trinny London make-up and their reusable, stackable pots are perfect for filling with your favourite skincare flight essentials. Or you can buy these silicone bottles and pots specially made for travel and the 100ml restrictions.
Of course, if any of the above are liquids you’ll need to separate them out to go through security.
All of your liquids will need to be in one clear, plastic, resealable bag no more than 20cm x 20cm. Airports provide these bags but they’re quite flimsy so I like to use these sturdy TSA approved clear toiletry bags.
Your seat
On the subject of cleanliness I take anti-bacterial wipes and give my tray table, touch screen and arm rests a quick wipe down. Hand sanitiser is useful too.
What to wear on your long-haul flight
Comfort and practicality is key on any long flight and essential if you’re going to get any sleep.
Opt for lose-fitting clothes with a bit of stretch so you can move around easily. Layer up so you can adjust to different cabin temperatures.
Wear shoes that you can slip on and off easily and remember that your feet will probably swell so make sure they’re roomy. And always wear shoes when you go to the loo. Don’t ask.
Avoid tight jeans, belts, underwired-bras and lots of jewellery. If you’ve got long hair use hair ties and avoid hair clips which will dig into your head when you’re leaning back in your seat.
My long haul flight outfit
My tried and trusted outfit for long haul flights (and short flights) is:
Trousers with a bit of stretch, I like these jersey wide-leg stretch trousers which are really comfy.
A classic t-shirt (not too tight). If I’m going to a cooler destination I’ll wear a long-sleeved t-shirt.
I like to wear a hoodie so I can pull it over my head and block out what’s going on around me. Full zip is better for taking on and off.
A bomber jacket or a jersey relaxed jacket – this can go in the overhead locker.
Compression socks – your legs will thank you!
Comfy trainers – I love my Adidas Spezials which are quite roomy. I can slip them on and off without undoing the laces and wearing them saves space in my hold luggage.
Compression Socks
A pair of compression socks can be a travel game-changer on long flights. They boost blood circulation and help reduce swelling and fatigue, while lowering the risk of blood clots and deep vein thrombosis.
Remember to get up and walk around at regular intervals (every 60-90 minutes) and try to avoid sitting for long periods of time. Stretching out your muscles will also help with swelling and relieve pressure.
Looking for more packing tips?
- What to wear in Egypt – a packing guide for women
- What to wear sailing – essential guide and packing list
- How to avoid mosquito bites
- What to wear in Iceland – summer and winter guides
- The ultimate ski trip packing list
Where to sit on the plane?
Choosing the right seat can make a massive difference to your long flight experience. Your seat selection is, of course, down to personal preference but here are a few considerations that I always bear in mind.
- Seats near to the toilets means people will be constantly passing your seat and doors/locks can be noisy.
- The galley is always noisy so I avoid seats close by.
- Bulkhead seats are often a) near the galley and b) can also be used for infant cots. Worth bearing in mind.
SeatGuru is an excellent website which will give you the heads up on which seats to avoid. It’ll tell you which window seat doesn’t actually have a window, which seats might be noisier and which have extra leg-room.
Tip: I often wait until last minute to choose my seat. That way I can see if there’s plenty of room at the back of the flight. It’s not always the case but I’ve often had a free seat next to me and sometimes two. However, if the flight is full you might not have any choice at all so keep an eye on seat availability on-line in the lead up to your flight.
Another draw-back with this is that these seats are the last to be served meals so your first menu choice might not be available. If your meal is important to you then you’ll want to be nearer the front.
And the age-old question; window seat or aisle set? Obviously nobody wants the middle seat. I’m team window every time. For long flights, I recommend opting for a window seat if you don’t want to be disturbed. You can also rest your head against the wall of the plane.
If you’re someone who needs to use the bathroom frequently then take an aisle seat for easier access.
Airplane etiquette
Always be polite to the flight attendants and be considerate towards your neighbours. Hopefully they’ll reciprocate and it will help your flight experience.
Put your phone on silent just in case any apps and alarms still ping, which they sometimes do, even in flight mode. Check your headphones or earphones aren’t leaking noise.
There’s an unspoken rule that the person in the middle (worst) seat gets the armrests. I try and keep my elbows in just to make sure they’re not disturbing anyone else. But if someone invades my space I won’t put up with it either.
Always check behind you before putting your seat back. I was once picking something up from the floor when the person in front slammed their seat back – that hurt. A quick look to make sure the person behind you isn’t eating their meal goes a long way too.
Finally, the times I’ve been woken up when the person behind has grabbed my seat to pull themselves up to standing. Now that’s super annoying.
Entertainment on your long flight
I love a long haul flight because it means I can watch a film, dip into a good book or my Kindle which I pre-load. It’s a great way to relax for a few hours without having to worry about work.
Download some entertainment to your device like films, TV shows, podcasts and games and enjoy the journey. You’ll need to make sure everything’s charged up beforehand.
Many airlines have films about the cities they fly to which is a good way to find out more about your destination and up the anticipation levels.
Ready for your long flight?
I hope my long haul flight essentials will help you have a comfortable flight and help you reach your final destination refreshed and ready to explore. Ultimately you’ll know what works best for you but hopefully you’ve found some new ideas and tips that will help.
Do you have any long haul travel tips that we might find useful? Please leave your tips in the comments and we’ll add to this list.
Suzanne Jones is a full-time travel blogger and writer at The Travelbunny which she started in 2011 during her time as a professional travel planner. Suzanne enjoys exploring new destinations, culinary encounters and the outdoors. When not travelling or writing about her adventures you’ll most likely find her, camera in hand, enjoying coastal walks in Sussex.
Suzanne also runs Hello Sussex a website which showcases the best of East & West Sussex. Read more about Suzanne.
Last update on 2025-11-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API