Looking for a list of essentials for an upcoming long-haul flight? You’ve come to the right place! Here’s everything I pack – with a handy checklist you can download.
As someone who has travelled to more than 40 countries and who currently lives in Australia, which is far, far away from everywhere, I’ve been on more than my fair share of long-haul flights. They’re often uncomfortable, boring and seemingly never-ending.
And there’s nothing worse than getting an hour into a 15-hour flight and realising that you left something important behind or packed it into your checked-in luggage. Which is why I’ve created my own long haul flight essentials checklist so that I never leave anything I need behind.
If you’re planning a trip that involves a long-haul flight, make sure to pack these carry on essentials to make the trip more comfortable.
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A good bag
The foundation of any carry on packing list is a good bag that can hold all your stuff. Depending on where I’m travelling to and what I’m doing when I get there, I alternate between a tote/duffel bag, a wheelie suitcase and a backpack for my carry-on bag.
I’m a huge fan of the enormous tote bag that Experience Scottsdale gifted me when I visited Scottsdale recently. It’s roomy and has tonnes of different pockets and dividers that help this A-type personality stay organised.
If I didn’t use that tote to pack all my travel essentials, I’d get my hands on one of these quilted weekender bags. It’s spacious with solid zippers and a separate section for a pair of shoes.
- Large Capcity Travel Bag — The demension is 21.65”(L)*11.02”(W)*12.99”(H). The length range of adjustable and removable shoulder strap is 28.35”~54.72”.Here’s the inner structure:1 main compartment, 2 inner open pockets and 1 zipper pocket.Also it has the trolly sleeve with back zipper pocket.It’s only 1.39 lb with high quality material, making it extremely lightweight.You could easily store fitness clothing, shoes, water bottles, towels and other travel essentials.
Whichever bag I take with me, if you peek inside you’ll likely find several smaller bags and pouches where I store other essential travel items like lip balm, hand sanitiser, tissues and so on.
These are usually bags I’ve picked up from airlines but there are so many cute ones you can find online as well.
These ones have so many fun prints and come in two different sizes.
- DECENT SIZE. Please double-check the size before purchasing, especially the smaller option, to ensure it meets your expectations and avoid returns. Dimensions of large version: 8.5″x5.9″x3.9″/22x15x10 cm, weighs only 4 oz. Thoughtful size, not too big but not too small, is great for someone who brings a fair amount of makeup/beauty products
- WELL-ORGANIZED COMPARTMENTS. Practical main compartment with 5 inner small pockets could neatly organize your makeup. Main compartment could easily hold travel-size toiletries or skin-care products. It could fit 3 brushes, eyeliners, foundation, concealer, lipsticks, blushes, powder, eyeshadow pallet, mascara, lash curler, sponges, sunscreen, 3oz lotion, cream, facial cleanser and toothpaste
- EXTREMELY VERSATILE. The use is endless. More than makeup bag or travel toiletry bag, also used as cable bag, medicine bag and office-type supplies bag
As well as my larger carry-on bag, I also often carry a smaller purse/handbag with me for my passport and important documents, phone and wallet. This is easier than fishing around in a bigger bag.
Travel organiser
I’m not a fan of passport covers because you often have to take the passport out of the holder and that gets annoying. But what I do love is a travel organiser that keeps all my important documents together in one place.
I have this fairly boring but very practical grey travel organiser, and inside you’ll find these international travel essentials:
- My passport (and my husband’s)
- Any relevant travel documents like flight itineraries or a copy of my own trip itinerary
- Visa (if needed)
- Health documents if they’re required (for example, I needed to show that I had the yellow fever vaccination for my trip to East Africa)
- Boarding pass
- Spare passport photos
- Pens
- Usually some U.S. dollars (tip: get a travel organiser that has a zip-up pocket for coins)
- DESIGNED BY TRAVELERS FOR TRAVELERS unique, Smartly designed, elegant high capacity document holder. Removable wristlet and cross body straps allow choosing the desired type of wearing and usage
- THE MOST SPACIOUS Letter Sized TRAVEL ORGANIZER EVER. Designed specifically for large families or groups of travelers. 6 passport pouches, 2 pockets for boarding passes for passengers flying with connection, 2 zippered big pockets for cash, 2 latter size stash pockets for documents, external zippered phone pocket… Totally 21 pockets and slots
Entertainment
It used to be a given that you’d get some sort of entertainment on a plane, especially on a long-haul flight. But you can never guarantee that your seat-back television will be working, so you need to prepare ahead.
Make sure you’ve downloaded movies and television programs to your phone or tablet – and check that they have actually downloaded properly.
I always bring along a book or two, as well, just in case I get sick of watching movies (trust me, on a 16-hour flight, it happens). I often bring a physical book, but most of the time I have several books downloaded to my Kindle so I can pick and choose without the extra weight.
- Kindle Paperwhite – Now with a 6.8” display and thinner borders, adjustable warm light, up to 10 weeks of battery life, and 20% faster page turns.
- Purpose-built for reading – With a flush-front design and 300 ppi glare-free display that reads like real paper, even in bright sunlight.
- More books in more places – Store thousands of titles, then take them all with you. A single charge via USB-C last weeks, not hours.
- Easy on the eyes – Now with adjustable warm light to shift screen shade from white to amber.
Whatever you do, don’t buy books at the airport – they’re usually far more expensive.
I’ll usually also have a copy of the Lonely Planet guidebook for the country I’m travelling to, either in hard copy or on my Kindle or iPhone.
- Williams, Nicola (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 888 Pages – 05/06/2025 (Publication Date) – Lonely Planet (Publisher)
Cables and charging equipment
Ever boarded a plane only to realise that your phone is at 9%? Disaster.
Make sure you bring chargers and cables with you on the plane – don’t pack them in your check-in luggage.
Not all planes are equipped with in-seat power, so I also pack a portable charger (make sure it’s fully charged before you board!) like this Anker portable charger.
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I also always pack my travel adapter in my carry on, just in case my checked bag gets lost. I have this universal adapter which also has an in-built surge protector and two USB outlets. It’s very lightweight.
- WORLDWIDE CHARGING – This Travel Adapter Cover more than 150 Countries with US/EU/UK/AU plugs. It works in Canada, Russia, Asia, Central America, South America and the Middle East to name a few.
- DUAL USB PORTS – World Adapter Plug compatible with almost all USB Devices like Apple iPhone 14,13,12,11,XR,8,7,6 6s 5s 4s, Samsung galaxy s22 s21 s7 s7 edge s6 s6 edge s5 s4, Sony,Nokia, HTC, LG, and so on.
- CHARGE 3 DEVICES – The World Adapter Plug allows SIMULTANEOUS use of the AC Power Socket and Dual USB Ports.You can charge three devices at the same.Universal travel adapter.
I also usually bring my own headphones. Nothing fancy, just my iPhone headphones with a splitter so that I can plug it into the entertainment system. The over-ear ones that planes often provide usually hurt my ears after a while so I prefer to use my own.
If you’re really into headphones, pack some fancy noise cancelling headphones like these Bose headphones.
- NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES: Effortlessly combines noise cancellation technology with passive features so you can shut off the outside world, quiet distractions, and take music beyond the beat
- COMFORTABLE HEADPHONES: Plush earcup cushions softly hug your ears, while a secure and comfortable padded band gently keeps your over ear headphones in place for those extra-long listening sessions
- 2 LISTENING MODES: These wireless Bluetooth headphones feature Quiet and Aware Modes that let you toggle between full noise cancelling or full awareness of your surroundings for seamless sound control
Electronics case
Organisation is my goal when I’m flying. I hate having to dig through my bag trying to find things.
One of the best things I’ve ever purchased is this electronics case which has so much room for cables, my Kindle (or an iPad or tablet), memory cards for my camera, portable charger, laptop charger and whatever other electronics I’m carting around with me.
- Compatible Space: The electronics storage bag keeps all gadgets in one place, 2 inner mesh pockets with zipper that can fit a portable hard disk, and 6 mesh pouches with elastic loops that expand to store thumb drives, and battery backups. Elastic loops for storing various cables and chargers.3 SD card slots prevent SD cards from missing
- Lightweight Travel Accessories: The size of the electronic organizer travel case is 10.6″ L x 7.5″ W x 1.2″ H, Compact and space-saving size and fits perfectly into a backpack, briefcase, handbags, or laptop bag, Suitable for traveling use and daily organization. A great gift ideal
If you’re travelling light with electronics, then a few of these cord “tacos” should be enough to keep your cords from tangling up.
Laptop
I rarely use my laptop on a plane but it’s something I’d never check in.
Camera
Same as my laptop, my camera is far too valuable (both monetarily and personally) to put in my check-in luggage.
Travel pillow
The thin, lumpy pillows they hand out on a plane rarely do the job. They usually slip down your back or you still wake up with a crick in your neck because your head has fallen forward and you’re drooling everywhere.
I have this awesome TRTL pillow which wraps around your neck and keeps your head up, so no more sore neck (drooling still happens…)! This is the best travel pillow for long haul flights. You can move it around depending on how you like to sleep. Unless you’re up the pointy end, you’re not going to get the best sleep of your life on a plane, but it will make it much more comfortable.
- Scientifically Proven Neck Pillows For Travel: Thanks to our unique, patented design, you can easily adjust your Trtl travel neck pillow to achieve top-level comfort and experience ultimate neck support. The internal support system keeps your head and neck in an upright position while you nap, keeping you from waking up with aches, strains, or pains. The perfect airplane or car travel essential.
- Enjoy a Real Sleeping Experience on Long Flights: Add our neck pillow to your long flight essentials’ list to experience a deep sleep during lengthy flights. The super soft fleece, plush cushioning, and cozy shoulder support will lull you into a long, refreshing nap while on the plane.
- Lightweight and Compact Design: Weighing in at only 4.5oz, The Trtl Travel Pillow’s lightweight design allows you to attach it to the outside of your backpack or luggage easily without feeling weighed down. No more dragging around a bulky neck pillow for traveling!
Comfy clothes
I remember the first few times I travelled on a plane, I dressed up. I may have even worn heels.
Well, those days are long gone and today it’s all about comfort. I usually wear leggings or joggers or a long skirt with a loose top. I pair them with a pair of sneakers that are easy to slip on and off (I love these white leather sneakers).
No jeans, no uncomfortable tops that don’t move or breathe well. And no heels.
If you’ve got a long flight, consider bringing a spare change of clothes that you can change into halfway through your trip (or as back up in case your luggage goes missing).
Spare undies
I still remember the first time I flew to the U.S. on a business trip. I landed in Washington DC, but my bag didn’t. I spent the next two days wearing the same clothes and washing my knickers in the hotel bathroom sink every night.
I learned my lesson that trip and it’s something I’ll never forget: always pack a spare pair of undies. It’s one of my best travel tips. This must be top of your travel essentials list.
Scarf or cardigan
In addition to comfy clothes, a scarf or a cardigan is also one of my long haul flight essentials. Planes can get cold.
A scarf is also a great addition to your travel wardrobe, whether it’s using it as an actual scarf to accessorise your outfit or to cover your shoulders when you visit a religious site.
Socks
Like I said, planes can get cold. Sometimes I don’t want to slip on my shoes, so I like to have a pair of socks to keep my tootsies warm.
They’re also handy for when you go to the bathroom. NEVER go to a plane toilet in bare feet!! I sometimes also pack a pair of flip flops that I can slip on when I go to the bathroom.
Consider compression socks to prevent deep vein thrombosis when flying long haul.
- MULTICOLOR COMBO – You get a color combination of your choice. Perfect for a whole week without daily wash. You are getting an amazing offer to keep your feet stay with optimal compression all the time (See the 7th image for the Size Chart)! High quality stitched & Easy to get on even though they are compression socks!
- COMPRESSION IS PROVEN to allow you to move faster, react quicker and use less energy. Targeted compression zones provide varying levels of support from moderate to extra firm. Unique color design, add a touch of color to your ordinary life.
Toiletries
Air travel can dry out your skin, so I always pack these long haul flight essentials to keep me hydrated and fresh.
What you’ll always find in my toiletries bag are:
- Face moisturiser
- Lip balm (I love Burt’s Bees)
- Deodorant
- Make-up remover wipes (which also double as body wipes in a pinch)
- A small amount of make-up that I apply before I disembark (eyebrow pencil, mascara, concealer)
- Tissues
- Eye drops
- Hand sanitiser
- Antibacterial wipes to wipe down my tray table and arm rests
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Vitamin C tablets
- Nose spray
- Plus anything I absolutely couldn’t lose – medications, contact lenses and solution (before I had Lasik surgery)
And, you guessed it, all of this goes into a separate small bag that I pop into the seat back for easy access.
Clear case for liquids
I used to use a basic Ziploc bag to transport my liquids, but now I travel with one of these clear, TSA-approved cases. It’s big enough for all my liquids and it has structure so that I can really pack everything in.
- ✈TSA Approved Toiletry Bag for Women/Men- TSA approved clear toiletry bag strictly follow 3-1-1 regulations. Easy and quick to pass through airport security. An ideal travel toiletry bag, quart size toiletry bags for women and men in all ages. (Note: This travel bag size is small, product details page has specific size information, please determine the size before you make a purchase, thank you for your understanding and support. )
- ✈Clear Strong Thickness Design Travel Toiletry Bag – Made of transparent PVC material, to see and get items quickly. Strong thickness helps the clear toiletry bag more durable and easy to clean, it is reusable tsa bag for travel, clear makeup bags for women.
I have all my liquids in this case for security, and then when I get on the plane I transfer everything into another pouch with my other non-liquid toiletries.
Eye mask and ear plugs
On long-haul flights, most airlines hand out an amenity kit with an eye mask and ear plugs, but I like to bring my own as well. I have an eye mask that I got from business class and it’s contoured for your face so it actually blocks out light.
I’m still waiting for someone to buy me this cashmere set which includes a soft eye mask (hint, hint, husband!).
- Made from 100% pure cashmere, this luxury cashmere poncho and eye mask travel set is a must for any journey; it oozes sophistication, is light, soft, and warm
- The poncho can be worn while traveling and due to its cozy blanket feel is perfect for keeping warm on planes and cruises; it’s a blanket that won’t fall off while your sleeping
- Cashmere offers lightweight warmth without the bulk, it travels well as it doesn’t wrinkle, and it becomes softer with wear
- This cashmere poncho is made from grade A cashmere sourced from Inner Mongolia and is knitted in 12 gauge which is a denser cashmere knit and is suitable for all seasons and climates
- Pullover style poncho that fits most sizes; model in images is 5′ 6″ and size 4
Reusable water bottle
I rarely travel without my Nomader reusable water bottle, and it’s also one of my must haves for long haul flights.
It’s great because it can be rolled up when it’s empty, saving space in my bag. Then, before I get on the plane I fill it up, and ask the flight attendants to top it up during the flight so I’ve always got water.
- PORTABLE – sturdy and comfortable to drink from while on-the-go; rolls up for compact travel when empty; convenient to carry with hand strap
- LEAKPROOF – patented twist cap and lid prevents water leaks; hinged cover shields drink spout in between sips
- HEALTHY – made of 100% food-grade materials; BPA-free, BPS-free, phthalates-free, lead-free, and latex-free
- VERSATILE – freezable; dishwasher safe (top rack); wide mouth makes it easy to refill, add ice, and clean with bottle brush
Chewing gum
I normally never chew gum, but on a plane it can be really helpful. Both for keeping your breath fresh and for relieving ear pressure.
Notebook and pen
I’ve always got a notebook with me so I can jot down the random ideas that pop into my head during my long-haul flights.
Similarly, I’ll usually have two or three pens on me. I always see so many people on planes asking the flight attendants for a pen so that they can fill out their immigration cards.
Snacks
Controversial opinion: I actually don’t mind plane food. I’ve always been surprised by how passionately some people hate plane food. It’s not gourmet but it’s not that terrible.
But, it never hurts to pack some snacks for a long-haul flight. Pack stuff that will actually keep you full but that’s light and healthy. Some good plane snacks are:
- Nuts – but avoid salted nuts because you’ll get dehydrated
- Trail mix
- Protein bars
- Fruit – remember to eat it before you land at your destination
Travel insurance
Boring, yes, I know, but if I’m travelling overseas I always have travel insurance. Check Travel Insurance Master to compare policies from across multiple providers. Another provider is SafetyWing, which is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads. Finally, World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world.
If you’d prefer to have this long-haul flight essentials packing list in a PDF document you can download and print for your travels, click here!
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That’s everything I travel with. What about you? What are the long haul flight essentials you can’t travel without? Let me know in the comments below.
Related posts
Before you move on from this long haul flights essentials list… you might like these other travel articles:
- Road Trip Packing List: 75+ Essential Items (+ Printable Checklist)
- East Africa Packing List: What to Wear on Safari and Beyond
- Gift Guide: 25 Perfect Gifts for Travellers
- How to Plan a Trip: 15 Steps to the Perfect Travel Itinerary
THINGS TO TAKE ON LONG HAUL FLIGHTS: PIN IT FOR LATER
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