17 Long Haul Flight Essentials That Actually Make Sense [2025]

Let’s be honest: long flights are rarely glamorous. Between stiff legs, dry skin, and questionable meals, they can feel more like endurance tests than the beginning of a great trip. After many international flights — some smooth, some not — I’ve created a go-to long haul flight essentials list that genuinely improves the journey.

This isn’t your typical checklist with “bring a book” or “wear layers.” These are must-haves for long flights — smart, space-efficient items that make a real difference when you’re stuck on a plane for 8+ hours. If you’re wondering what to bring on a long flight this guide has you covered.

1. Bluetooth Adapter for In-Flight Entertainment

This one was a real game changer for me, and I can’t believe I didn’t discover it until just a year ago. You know those seatback screens with decent movies but terrible headphones, where you can barely hear the audio over all the background noise? With a Bluetooth adapter, you can use your AirPods or other noise-canceling headphones instead of the airline’s wired, low-quality ones. No more tangled cables or weak sound — it’s one of the absolute must haves for a long haul flight if you want to fully enjoy the in-flight entertainment.

The best part? If you usually travel with your partner and like watching the same movie together, there are Bluetooth adapters that let you connect two pairs of headphones at once, making it easy to share your favorite films in comfort.

2. Noise-Canceling Headphones, must have for any long flight

These block engine noise, people talking, and other distractions that can make it really difficult to fall asleep. For me, it’s especially important when I fly overnight and arrive at my destination in the morning local time. My travel hack? Sleep on the plane and then power through the first day without napping — it’s the best way I’ve found to beat jet lag. In that case, quality sleep on the flight is non-negotiable. Just don’t forget to pack the audio cable too — some systems still require it. I use AirPods Pro but any noise cancelling headphones will be a must-have for a long haul flight.

3. Face Mist, long haul travel essential for women

Cabin air is brutal on your skin. I have dry skin, so having something to hydrate is crucial. A small hydrating face mist helps you feel refreshed mid-flight and keeps your skin from drying out. I prefer a light mist instead of a cream to avoid touching my face too much — especially when my hands don’t feel clean. A top pick in any hand luggage essentials for long haul flights. Just remember to buy the size that is allowed in the hand luggage.

4. Reusable Water Bottle

This one is obvious. Stay hydrated without relying on those tiny plastic cups. Bring a collapsible or insulated water bottle and fill it after security. I always bring a bigger one, not to rely on the on flight service only. As mentioned before, air in the plane is super dry so it’s much easier to dehydrate. A bottle of water with filter belongs on every what to bring on carry-on for long flight checklist.

5. Electrolyte Packets or Herbal Tea Bags

Flying dehydrates you quickly, and it’s not just about drinking water — your body also loses essential minerals. Electrolyte packets can help you rehydrate more effectively than plain water alone, keeping your energy levels stable and preventing that sluggish, headachy feeling. I always pack a couple of my favorite flavors and drink one mid-flight. It’s one of the best travel hacks for long flights to avoid fatigue and arrive feeling more refreshed. Herbal tea bags are also great if you prefer something calming like chamomile or peppermint.

6. Seatback Organizer

If you’ve ever set small items like your AirPods, lip balm, or pen on your lap and then accidentally fallen asleep, you’ll know how easily things can slide away and vanish between the seat cushions. Or maybe you’ve carefully arranged your things on the tray table — only to have to scramble when meal service starts and suddenly everything needs to be cleared.

A seatback organizer solves all of that. I now pack everything I’ll need for the flight in one place — snacks, tech, tissues, gum, foot hammock, you name it — and just pull it out before settling into my seat. This way, I’m not digging through my bag mid-flight or losing things to the abyss under the seat. It’s one of those long haul travel essentials that seems small but makes a huge difference.

7. Compression Socks

Long flights = swollen ankles and stiff legs. Stylish compression socks help with circulation and reduce discomfort. A solid choice on any list of long haul flight essentials.

8. Powerbank, Essential for Every Long Flight

Even if your seat has a USB port, it might be slow or broken. A slim powerbank keeps your phone and headphones charged for the full flight. Definitely among the best things to carry on a plane.

9. Hand Cream in a Stick

A solid balm or stick-style hand cream won’t leak. It keeps your hands from cracking in the dry cabin air. One of the most practical things to pack for a flight.

10. Neck Pillow That Actually Supports Your Head

Ditch the floppy U-shaped pillows. Go for a structured neck pillow like the Cabeau Evolution S3 — they offer real support and pack down surprisingly small. A top carry-on essential for long flights.

11. Your Favorite Snacks

Bring a few snacks that don’t melt or go bad. Protein bars, trail mix, or dried fruit are great. They help keep your energy up without relying on airplane food. I always suffer if I forget to bring something I really enjoy, especially because being bored makes me hungry 😅 It can be also a lifesaver if the airplane food isn’t that good. One of the long haul flight essentials you’ll never regret packing.

12. Notebook, My Personal Must-have for a Long Haul Flight

A small notebook is great for writing down thoughts, making plans, or just staying off screens for a while. I always get the best ideas or thought flow on the airplane — maybe it’s because there are fewer distractions and no Instagram or TikTok to check. That’s why a notebook is always one of my favorite things to bring on planes.

13. Hand Sanitizer

Planes are full of shared surfaces — tray tables, seatbelt buckles, screens — and it’s easy to touch your face without thinking. That’s why hand sanitizer is still a must. I like bringing one with a moisturizing formula, like aloe or vitamin E, so it doesn’t dry out my hands during the flight. It’s a simple, effective long haul flight essential that helps you stay clean and comfortable during the journey.

14. Toothbrush + Mini Mouthwash

Brushing your teeth mid-flight can make you feel 100x better. Remember to put your toothbrush and a travel-sized mouthwash or toothpaste tabs in your carry-on bag. It makes a big difference, especially after a long nap or before landing.

15. Offline Entertainment (Including a Kindle!)

Download playlists, shows, movies, podcasts, and books ahead of time. I like adding slow-paced, cozy podcasts to help me fall asleep. I also never forget my Kindle — it’s perfect for reading in the dark, doesn’t strain your eyes, and lets you carry several books without taking up much space in your bag. Great if you’re unsure what to bring in carry-on for long flight downtime.

16. Foot Hammock

This small foot hammock hangs from the tray table and lets you rest your feet. It helps with blood flow and back comfort — especially on flights over 6 hours. It also help me fall asleep in the plane. One of the best travel hacks for long flightsI’ve found.

17. Nasal Hydration Spray

The air on planes is super dry, and that can make your nose feel scratchy or even lead to a cold. A quick spray keeps your nose hydrated and helps you feel better. A smart must-have for long flights.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to overpack, but adding even a few of these smart picks can make your flight much more comfortable. Whether it’s a quick overnight or a 14-hour haul, these long flight essentials will help you feel prepared, refreshed, and a little more in control of the journey.

Got a favorite travel hack for long flights or something you always include in your carry-on for long flights? Drop it in the comments!

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