“Flying economy is SO comfortable!” … said no one ever. If you know the secrets to getting first class flights for really cheap (let me know if you do – please!), then flying in economy is the norm. Well, I’m here to tell you my long-haul flight travel essentials that make economy seats feel like those first class chairs (not really, but almost…).
Organize your items
Before you even get on the plane, it’s really important to have all of your belongings organized. It will reduce the stress of trying to find something later. For the larger bag that is stored in the overhead bin, pack items that won’t be needed during flight. Pack the in flight travel essentials (and anything else you will need during the flight) in a smaller bag. This will go under the seat in front of you.
Choose a good seat
If I’m assigned the dreaded middle seat, then I will pay a bit extra to chose a seat somewhere else ONLY if it’s a long-haul flight. It’s normally only an extra $30, and worth it, in my opinion. I only do this on flights to my destination (so that I can be as well rested as possible when I arrive). I don’t pay for one on my way home (even if it’s the middle seat!), because I can rest when I get home.
So what seats are the best on a flight? This is pretty subjective, and depends what you prefer. Are you a window or aisle seat person? For long flights, I prefer the aisle seat so that I can use the bathroom without disturbing others. For short flights I prefer the window so that I can look at the view.
Aisle seat (in the middle section of the plane): this is my preferred seat. The middle seat is usually avoided, so there is a good chance that no one will be sitting next to you! I can get up to use the bathroom anytime I want too. If I am sleeping, the person in the middle seat can ask the other person next to them to use the bathroom.
Nice views.
Bring and wear comfortable clothing
- Comfortable Clothes – Comfort is key – and it’s possible to look good AND be comfortable! My go-to outfit is a pair of leggings, a long t-shirt, a sweater, and my jacket. Flights can get REALLY cold – so layers, layers, layers!
- Scarf – Instead of bringing a blanket that takes up too much valuable space, wear a big scarf/pashmina. This will double as a blanket when it gets freezing cold on the plane.
- Slippers or Cozy Socks – Switching from your shoes to some nice cozy slippers or socks makes lounging around in your seat so much more enjoyable.
In flight travel essentials to make your seat more comfortable
So what else can you bring on your flight to make yourself feel like you’re relaxing at a 5 star resort? (Not really… but almost – right?!)
- Hanging Foot Rest – This is a game changer. I tried it for the first time on a long flight, and it was SO comfortable. I was able to put my feet up and relax more. And it doesn’t disturb the person in front of you!
- Travel Pillow – I can’t travel without these. If my head isn’t comfortable, I’ll never be able to fall asleep. There are lots of different options to buy too. Blow up ones which save a lot of space, or bigger ones which can attach to the outside of your bag.
Bring food and drinks
The air is so dry on the plane, that when I land I can feel sick if I haven’t had enough water. And not enough food? Cue being hangry. Airplane food and drinks are really expensive, so to make your long flights more enjoyable, I make sure that I can be hydrated and well-fed!
Reusable Water Bottle – Save your money (and the environment!) with a reusable water bottle! Fill it up after you go through security.
Snacks – Another must. Avoid paying a crazy amount for a meal, or starving to death (ok, maybe I’m exaggerating just a little). I usually bring a couple of granola bars, or a sandwich.
Gum – Bring some gum to help with ear popping (and to feel refreshed after eating one of your many snacks!).
Drugs – no, not THOSE types of drugs, but Ibuprofen if you get a headache mid-flight, or a sleep-aid if you need extra help to get some shut-eye.
Other in flight travel essentials to bring
Entertainment – Sitting in one spot for hours on end can no doubt get boring. It’s risky to depend on in-flight entertainment because your headphone jack might not work, or they might not even have it! Before my flight, I download a bunch of movies and TV shows on Netflix to watch. I also download a book on Audible (requires you to buy a book) OR Libby (which is an app where you can borrow books for FREE!) so I can sit back, close my eyes, and listen to a book.
External Charger – This is something I will never, ever go on a trip without. On a trip to Peru, I got lost and separated from my group and couldn’t find my AirBnB. I used my phone to use Google Translate to ask for directions and to eventually find my group and accommodation. My phone was on 5% from traveling all day, but luckily I had my external charger so that it didn’t die on me. I would probably STILL be in Peru trying to find my way around if it wasn’t for my external charger!
Pen – Bring a pen to fill out customs forms! One time I forgot a pen and had to use a pen in the customs line, and ended up being last in the line up. Such a waste of time! Bring a pen to avoid any delays.
Eye Mask & Headphones – If you want to block out the light and surrounding sounds, an eye mask and headphones (or ear plugs) can also come in handy.
What are some of your in-flight essentials? Let me know in the comments below!
Liked this post? Save it for later!
