Jen has spent more than 15 years immersed in the world of points and miles. Her work has been featured in The Points Guy, CNN Underscored, and Forbes, in addition to her own travel blog, Deals We Like.
Hi, Reader. There’s no doubt about it — long-haul flights can be tough. But after taking dozens of them, including trips as far as Australia, we’ve learned a few tricks to stay comfortable, even when crammed into a narrow seat with minimal recline for hours.
The good news is there are plenty of travel essentials that can make the journey much easier. Here are our top 12 must-haves to bring with you on your next long-haul flight (and they're great for short trips, too!).
With embedded memory foam, your feet and legs will be supported throughout your entire flight. The footrest also offers adjustable straps, ensuring a comfortable position for all travelers.
Unlike a traditional travel pillow or cotton sleep mask, the Ostrichpillow Light Travel Pillow has a versatile 2-in-1 design, serving as both an eye mask and a head pillow.
The pillow allows your head to rest on anything comfortably from the window to the tray table, while also blocking out light. And with the elastic cord adjuster, it fits perfectly to any traveler’s head.
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Step up your travel game with the ultra-comfy EverSnug 2-in-1 Travel Blanket and Pillow. Lightweight yet warm, this premium microplush blanket is perfect for your next long-haul flight.
With the included carrying case, this blanket can also turn into a pillow if you'd like. And with the incorporated carabiner, you can attach the case to your luggage or backpack for easy travel.
This full body pillow can be worn down the side of your body or across your chest while resting on the airplane window or even your travel partner's shoulder. And since it's inflatable, it can be quickly stored away in your carry-on while not in use.
If you're planning on using the pillow provided by the airline on an international flight, then a weighted sleep mask might be the way to go.
The FACEMOON Weighted Sleep Mask will soothe your eyes with its gentle weight, allowing you to fall asleep easier on your long-haul flight. And with its 3D ergonomic design, it fits itself to your face, providing a full blackout experience.
6. Airplane Tray Table Cover with Pocket Organizer
On some long-haul flights, it might feel like you're moving in for the day. So why not stay organized and keep essentials within reach with this Airplane Tray Table Cover with Pocket Organizer.
With slots for your electronic devices, water bottle, and snacks, plus a cover for the tray table when it's folded down, you'll feel a little bit more at home even while sitting in a metal tube for 8+ hours. And best of all, this reusable item is machine washable.
Not all long-haul flights offer a seatback entertainment system, which means you might need to utilize your own device to keep you occupied.
With the pocket-size Perilogics Airplane Phone Holder, you can watch your favorite TV show or movie on the plane — hands-free — by connecting the device to your seatback tray table.
If you prefer earbuds, the Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds are a great option — and right now they're available at one of the lowest prices of the year.
This version doesn’t include noise cancellation, but they’re light and designed for all-day comfort.
If you're looking to connect these earbuds to your seatback in-flight entertainment system, you'll want to make sure to have the AirFly Pro Wireless Transmitter to create a Bluetooth audio connection between the two.
While most planes have outlets these days, not all do. And if you don't want to worry about bringing so many extra cables with you, the Anker 20,000mAh Power Bank is a great way to ensure your electronics are charged throughout your flight.
With a built-in USB-C cable, you can replenish your iPhone's battery up to four times on a single charge. And since it has multiple ports, it can also charge more than one device at a time, distributing up to a whopping 87W.
Compression socks are a must-have on a long-haul flight to reduce swelling and keep the blood flowing. At an incredibly reasonable price, the Levsox Compression Socks are my go-to option.
These Levsox socks have held up well even after many wears, and they fit quite comfortably from my foot all the way up the leg. Best of all, they come in 25 different fun themed styles and four different sizes.
For a long-haul flight, comfort is everything, and while I have yet to try the ComfiLife Premium Comfort Seat Cushion personally, it has a 4.5 rating with over 22,000 reviews. This seat cushion relieves stress and ensures that you'll have less back pain while sitting for a long time in an airplane seat.
Finally, when your flight has landed, you can walk off the plane feeling a little more refreshed with Goodwipes Body Wipes. Just give yourself a little wipe down, and get rid of any sweat or body odor you've picked up during your long trip.
Flying Emirates or Etihad in economy? Both let you pay to keep neighboring seats empty. Emirates sells up to three adjoining seats at check-in, while Etihad takes bids online before departure.
Edited by
Sarah Silbert
Sarah is a travel and personal finance journalist who’s written for outlets including Business Insider, Forbes, and Fortune. She’s passionate about uncovering ways to travel better, save money, and enjoy more freedom.
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