Discover the best things for long flights to make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable. From travel essentials to entertainment tips, find out how to survive lengthy travels with ease.
Long flights can often feel daunting, but having the best things for long flights on hand can transform your experience. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, being prepared is key to staying comfortable and entertained during those extended hours in the air.
In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of must-have items and practical tips that will help you breeze through your next long-haul adventure.
1. Noise-Canceling Headphones Are a Game-Changer
One of the best things for long flights is undoubtedly a reliable pair of noise-canceling headphones. Not only do they block out crying babies and engine hums, but they also create a personal entertainment cocoon.
1.1 Bose vs. Sony: A Comparison
| Feature | Bose QuietComfort 45 | Sony WH-1000XM5 |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Cancellation | Excellent | Outstanding |
| Battery Life | 24 Hours | 30 Hours |
| Price | $329 | $399 |
We find the Sony XM5 edges out in battery life, but Bose is often preferred for its lighter design.
1.2 How It Enhances Comfort
Noise isolation reduces sensory overload, helps you relax, and even improves your chances of falling asleep. Paired with soothing lo-fi beats or an audiobook, it’s one of the top travel accessories for flights.
2. Neck Pillows: Ergonomic Support in the Sky
Long-haul flights mean hours of awkward sleeping positions, and that’s where a well-designed travel pillow comes in.
2.1 Memory Foam vs. Inflatable
- Memory Foam – Offers support but takes up space.
- Inflatable – Adjustable and compact, but less supportive.
Our recommendation: Trtl Travel Pillow—a scientifically backed design that holds your neck upright and folds flat.
2.2 Additional Neck Support Tips
- Recline slightly to align your spine.
- Pair with a blanket and an eye mask for better rest.
- Avoid leaning on hard surfaces like windows unless cushioned.
3. Compression Socks to Improve Circulation
Flying long distances can increase the risk of swelling and DVT. Compression socks are more than just comfort items for long flights—they’re a health essential.
3.1 Benefits of Compression Gear
- Reduces swelling in legs and feet
- Improves blood flow
- Prevents blood clots
According to the American Heart Association, compression socks reduce DVT risk by 60% on long flights.
3.2 Choosing the Right Fit
- Opt for 15-20 mmHg for general travel.
- Ensure the fit is snug but not restrictive.
- Avoid wearing cotton-only socks which trap moisture.
4. Layered Clothing: Style Meets Strategy
Cabin temperatures fluctuate dramatically, making layered outfits part of our long flight necessities checklist.
4.1 Base-Layer Essentials
- Moisture-wicking undershirts
- Light zip-up hoodies
- Compression leggings or joggers
Pro Tip: Uniqlo’s HeatTech line is lightweight and insulating, ideal for chilly flights.
4.2 Don’t Forget a Scarf
A scarf or wrap serves as:
- A blanket
- A pillow
- A style piece
5. Tablets and E-Readers for Unlimited Entertainment
The best gadgets for long flights should offer distraction and immersion. Tablets like the iPad or Kindle Paperwhite can be your in-flight best friends.
5.1 Download Before You Fly
Must-do list:
- Netflix shows (available for offline download)
- The Midnight Library on Kindle
- Language learning apps like Duolingo
5.2 Why Tablets Trump Phones
- Larger screen = Less eye strain
- Longer battery life
- Lighter than a laptop
Remember: Enable airplane mode and brightness optimization to save battery.
6. Snacks: Keep Hunger Pangs at Bay
Plane food doesn’t always hit the spot. Smart snacking can elevate your entire flight experience.
6.1 Healthy, TSA-Friendly Snacks
- Trail mix with dried fruit and dark chocolate
- Granola bars (choose low sugar)
- Cheese cubes and crackers in leak-proof containers
6.2 Stay Hydrated
Avoid: Coffee, alcohol, and soda
Prefer: Electrolyte tablets, herbal tea bags (just ask for hot water)
Hydration impacts jet lag intensity—studies show staying hydrated reduces jet lag by up to 30%.
7. Eye Masks and Earplugs: Simulate a Sleep Chamber
In-flight sleep often means blocking light and sound. Eye masks and earplugs are essential items for long flights to maximize rest.
7.1 What to Look For
- Eye masks with adjustable straps and memory foam
- Earplugs with high noise reduction rating (NRR 32+)
- Bonus: Consider silicone earplugs for comfort
7.2 Why Sleep Is Crucial Mid-Flight
According to the National Sleep Foundation, even a 30-minute nap improves mood and cognitive function during travel.
8. Hygiene Kits for a Mid-Flight Freshen-Up
Feeling clean after hours in the air isn’t impossible with a compact hygiene kit.
8.1 What to Pack
- Travel toothbrush and toothpaste
- Face wipes or micellar water pads
- Dry shampoo and hand sanitizer
8.2 Organizing Your Kit
Use a TSA-approved clear pouch. Store it in your seat pocket for mid-flight access.
Fact: A travel hygiene kit can reduce the feeling of travel fatigue by up to 40%, based on surveys from long-haul frequent flyers.
9. Portable Chargers: Battery Life Is Everything
Being stuck at 10% on a 10-hour flight is every traveler’s nightmare.
9.1 Best Options by Size
- Anker PowerCore 10000 – pocket-sized, 1.5 charges for phone
- Mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger – great for Apple users
- Solar-powered backup (eco-friendly, slower charge)
9.2 Don’t Forget the Cable
Pro tip: Bring a multi-tip cable and a USB wall adapter for airport charging stations.
10. Seat Selection Strategy
Believe it or not, where you sit can determine your comfort level.
10.1 Window vs. Aisle
- Window: Best for sleep and uninterrupted time
- Aisle: Easier access to lavatories and leg-stretching
10.2 Avoiding Trouble Spots
Stay away from:
- Exit rows (unless you need legroom)
- Rear seats (closer to bathrooms and turbulence)
11. Apps That Save Your Sanity
Digital tools are among the most underrated long flight survival kit items.
11.1 Must-Have Travel Apps
- Calm or Headspace – For guided meditations
- Libby – Borrow eBooks for free
- Pocket – Save articles for offline reading
11.2 Entertainment Apps
Download games that don’t require Wi-Fi:
- Monument Valley
- Alto’s Odyssey
- Plague Inc. (ironically fun mid-flight)
12. Journaling and Coloring for Mindful Flying
Bring a travel journal or adult coloring book to unwind digitally.
12.1 Benefits of Analog Entertainment
- Reduces eye fatigue
- Encourages reflection
- Makes the time fly (pun intended)
12.2 What to Pack
- Compact notebook
- The Mindfulness Coloring Book
- Colored pencils (not pens to avoid ink leaks)
13. Stretching Tools: Mini Fitness in Your Seat
Long-haul flight tips always include movement.
13.1 Tools You Can Bring
- Resistance bands (lightweight and foldable)
- Massage balls or mini foam rollers
- Toe separators to stretch feet
13.2 Exercises You Can Do
- Calf raises in the aisle
- Seated twists and shoulder rolls
- Ankle circles and neck tilts
Bonus: Walking every 2 hours reduces stiffness and keeps circulation flowing.
14. Travel-Sized Games and Cards
Stay entertained with interactive fun—especially if traveling with someone.
14.1 Options That Work in Economy
- Uno mini deck
- Bananagrams
- Travel chess or checkers
14.2 Benefits Beyond Fun
- Boosts mental alertness
- Passes time faster
- Builds camaraderie with seatmates
15. Personal Comfort Items That Make All the Difference
Some things don’t seem necessary until you don’t have them.
15.1 Unexpected Comfort Heroes
- Lip balm and facial mist
- Lightweight blanket or poncho
- Reusable water bottle with filter
15.2 Packing List for Long Flights Must-Haves
- Downloaded boarding pass
- Travel insurance PDF
- Pen for immigration cards
Pro tip: A fully prepped carry-on is your in-flight fortress.
16. Long-Haul Flight Mindset Matters Too
All the gear in the world won’t help if you’re mentally unprepared.
16.1 Prepare Emotionally and Mentally
- Set expectations: “I won’t get great sleep and that’s okay.”
- Visualize your destination.
- Practice gratitude mid-flight to stay positive.
16.2 Breathing Techniques and Mantras
- Box breathing (4 seconds inhale, hold, exhale, hold)
- “This too shall pass” mantra
- Mindful listening to soothing playlists
FAQs
What are the best things for long flights to pack in a carry-on?
Noise-canceling headphones, a neck pillow, snacks, hygiene kit, tablet, and water bottle.
How can I sleep comfortably on a long-haul flight?
Use a travel pillow, eye mask, compression socks, and layer clothing. Avoid caffeine before the flight.
Do I really need compression socks for flying?
Yes. They improve blood flow and reduce the risk of swelling and DVT, especially on flights over 6 hours.
Can I bring my own food on a flight?
Absolutely. TSA allows solid snacks, and having your own food helps avoid bad airline meals.
Is it okay to use my tablet the whole flight?
Yes, in airplane mode. Just bring a charger and keep screen brightness low to conserve battery.
Conclusion
When it comes to how to survive long flights, preparation is everything. From comfort-enhancing gear like noise-canceling headphones and neck pillows to productivity tools and entertainment apps, each item plays a role in making the journey bearable—and even enjoyable. With the right mindset and a fully-stocked long flight survival kit, we can embrace the adventure and land refreshed, not frazzled.
Key Takeaways
- Noise-canceling headphones and neck pillows are top in-flight comfort essentials.
- Snacks, hydration tools, and hygiene kits keep you physically well.
- Tablets, travel apps, and analog games offer entertainment without Wi-Fi.
- Layered clothing, compression socks, and proper seat selection improve health and rest.
- A prepared mindset and relaxation techniques make the biggest difference.
