I’ve become a bit of a travel addict in the last few years and I have found that there are a few must have items that I need in order to have a comfortable and happy flight.

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Here are some things that I have found to be absolute necessities on a plane, especially if you are trying to survive a long haul flight.

Travel Clorox Wipes

Wipe. Every. Thing. Down. The tray table, the arm rests, the touch screen….yes airlines clean and disinfect the aircraft between flights but it’s always a good idea to wipe them down yourselves too. That way you know that where you are hanging out for the next 4-8 hours is as clean as it can be. No one wants to pick up a bug on their vacation!

Lip Balm/ Lotion

Due to the fact the air is so dry in a plane, you’ll want to make sure that you have some in your carry on. It seems like a no brainer but I’ve forgotten my lip balm and it was shocking how quickly my lips became dry.

Urban Moonshine

I’m a bit of a germ freak when I travel, hence wiping everything down. I found this at Whole Foods years ago and I swear by it. Andrew is not a fan (but he’ll take a spray anyway) because he doesn’t like the flavor, but who cares what it tastes like it’s basically medicine and I have yet to be sick on a trip.

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Stay Hydrated

Nothing dehydrates you like airplane travel does.

I cannot stress enough how critical it is to drink tons of water before, during, and after your flight! This is especially important if you are drinking alcohol on your flight, I know I can’t pass up a glass of wine or welcome mimosa to celebrate my vacation.

Drinking more water will help you fight jet lag, increase your energy, help prevent headaches and dry skin, and aid digestive health (which can get a little funky when traveling)

It’s also a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle with you too, most airports have bottle filling stations and then you have your bottle for your trip. I love my Sip by S’well water bottle, it’s not too big and keeps the water super cold. 

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Bring an over-sized scarf

I’m not a huge neck pillow fan, I know that people love them but I can’t get comfy with one. I prefer an oversized scarf.

You can wrap it around your neck or bunch it up against the window for a pillow, use it as a blanket and then you also have an outfit accessory for during your trip!

Use a Sleep Mask

These are starting to be offered even in the main cabin on long haul flights. I wore one for the first time on a plane a couple years ago and I’m hooked. It’s amazing how blocking out that little bit of extra light will help you sleep.

Bring Headphones

Super important if you want to watch a movie while on your flight or listen to music while trying to sleep. You never know how chatty the people may be around you or if there will be little ones making a racket. Airlines usually have earbuds for purchase or complimentary for certain flights if you forget yours at home. I want to buy a new pair of noise canceling headphones and am looking for recommendations!

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Facial Wipes

I try not to use face wipes often since I know that they aren’t great for the environment but I do have a pack that I’ll take with me when we travel. After being in an airport, on a plane, hopefully sleeping for a few hours…you just want to wash your face. It feels so good to do a quick freshen up before stepping off the plane and continuing your adventure.

Upgrade!….if you can

The first couple of times that we went to Europe we flew coach, main cabin, economy….whatever you want to call it. We survived the flight but were not rested by any means. We have since flown business class across the pond and it’s a game changer. There is nothing, nothing like being able to fully lay down and sleep on a plane. Even if it’s only for an hour or two, it helps set the tone for the rest of your trip.

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A great way to upgrade or treat yourself is to use points from a travel rewards credit card. You probably use a credit card for most purchases anyway, you may as well get one that you can use to pamper yourself on your next vaca. (side note: I don’t have a travel rewards card but do have friends that LOVE them for this very reason)

I hope you find these tips helpful! If you have any tips or tricks for making airline travel more comfortable send them my way! 🙂