Getting on an airplane is a common fear for many people. In general, flying can be a stressful time full of chaos and, sometimes, boredom. There’s a good reason why lots of people absolutely dread having to take long flights.

However, taking trips that require you to be on an airplane for long hours doesn’t have to be such an overwhelming experience. There are plenty of things you can do to make your journey much more pleasurable.

Keep reading to check out this list of long flight essentials to take the edge off of your travels.

Take the Seat Selection Option

One of the worst things about flying for long periods of time is getting stuck in a seat that you don’t want to be in. Most airlines allow you to choose the place you’d like to sit before ever boarding. This is the perfect opportunity for you to upgrade your comfort.

If you know that you’re the type of person who loves a good view from a window seat, then it would be best to guarantee yourself this particular spot. You might even be someone who goes to the bathroom often or likes to stretch their legs, so an aisle chair would suit you best.

Choosing your seat ahead of time might cost a little extra sometimes depending on the airline and the flight, but it’s definitely one of the top long flight essentials.

Dress Comfortably

Have you ever gone somewhere and felt like you were over- or underdressed? Just imagine how uncomfortable that can be. Well, in the case of flying, you typically want to be as undressed as possible (unless you have an event to go to directly from the airport).

What you wear while traveling is one of the most important long flight essentials for multiple reasons. Firstly, you’ll be sitting in the same spot for a long time and certain materials just aren’t made for this. Also, airplanes can be all different temperatures (often on the cooler side) so you’ll want to make sure your clothes can withstand this.

Don’t be afraid to board a plane in your sweatpants and hoodies (lots of other people will be).

Bring a Neck Pillow & Blanket

Blankets and neck pillows made it to the long flight essentials list because one of the main things you’ll probably do on a lengthy plane ride is sleep. Sleeping helps the time past by the quickest and can make any trip seem much shorter.

While you’re napping you’ll want to be as cozy as possible, especially if you have issues falling to sleep on flights. Invest in a quality travel pillow and a plush blanket. The last thing you want to get off of the plane with is a sore body.

Use a Sleep Mask

Sometimes the people next to you will want to leave their overhead light on or the window rolled up right next to the sun. Again, if you’re planning on trying to get some rest, you’ll want to make sure you won’t be disturbed.

Be sure to include a sleep mask to shield any extra light from shining in your eyes. This way, you won’t have to bother your neighbors.

Pack Some Books

Another thing that people get worried about when flying for long periods of time is getting bored during the ride. One way to entertain yourself is to bring some books that you’re currently reading.

Books are great long flight essentials because they’re easy to travel with and typically fit in most bags. This is a great time to catch up on any reading that you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t had time to get to.

Grab Earbuds

Being in an enclosed space with all different types of people for a long time can get a little noisy. That’s why some amazing soul invented earbuds. Make sure you grab a pair of these little miracles to avoid any unwanted sounds from bothering you too much.

Some airlines will give them out if you forget yours, so don’t forget to ask.

Charge Your Tablet

Here’s another one of those handy long flight essentials to amuse yourself while traveling. If you’re someone who does a lot on your tablet, then you’ll definitely want to make sure you have a full battery to get you through at least most of the trip.

Prepare yourself by downloading movies, books, games and music ahead of time. Check to see if your specific flight has power outlets in case you need to recharge or purchase a portable battery charger.

Get Work Done

You can actually make your travels productive by scheduling to get some work done during this downtime. Catching up on projects and assignments is one of the best things to do on a long flight because it gives you more time to focus on exploring and relaxing when you finally get off the plane.

Buy Snacks

Most airlines will provide you with multiple meals during long flights. However, sometimes you may get a little hungry in-between time and there probably won’t be a convenience store anywhere in the sky.

Pack some snacks that are unopened to get past TSA or buy items after you’ve finished checking-in.

Don’t Forget Headphones

Headphones are one of the most useful things we carry but also one of the easiest items to forget. If you’re really wanting to drown out everything then purchase noise-canceling headphones from a quality brand.

This is also something that flight attendants may be able to provide, so you’re not completely out of luck if you do forget.

Have You Made Your Long Flight Essentials Checklist Yet?

The best way to prepare for traveling is to avoid procrastinating. Make a checklist of your long flight essentials the night before so you won’t find yourself frantically trying to gather things hours before your flight.

Bring things to entertain yourself and help you stay comfortable. Keep in mind how much enjoyment you’ll have after you’ve actually landed. And remember to be respectful of others around you.

Check out our blog for everything you need to know if your next lengthy airplane ride is headed to Vietnam!

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Quang Phan

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