Flying is not comfortable. That’s the hard truth and nothing is going to change it. But through trial and error, I’ve found a few ways to make a transatlantic flight a little more pleasant.
Water Bottle
You can’t bring a filled water bottle through security, but you absolutely need to bring an empty one. You can fill it up at a water fountain once you’re through security, and you can ask a flight attendant to fill it up on the plane. Flying is seriously dehydrating, so you need to have access to water at all times. Those tiny cups flight attendants give you at mealtimes aren’t going to cut it.
Face Masks/Wipes
Even if you have your water bottle and are drinking like a fish, your skin will still look dry without a face mask or face wipes. If you don’t like the idea of wearing a face mask on the plane, keep wipes with you to freshen up. I do this a couple times during the flight and shortly before landing, and once I’m off the plane and at my airbnb/hotel/wherever I’m staying I put on a face mask (make sure it’s a moisturizing mask).
Snacks
I always carry snacks with me on long flights. They help pass the time and make up for the less-than-appetizing airplane meals. I prefer sucking candies like lollipops because they last longer and stop my ears from popping during takeoff. If you do bring snacks, make sure to skip saltier ones like peanuts or chips. You’ll already feel dehydrated, so choose snacks that won’t make you thirsty.
Lotion + Toiletries
I know I’m starting to sound pretty repetitive, but planes dry you out! Keep lotion at hand to help with this. I also make sure I have any necessary toiletries available, like a contact lens case and solution so I can take my contacts out to sleep. I also bring a comb so I can brush my hair before we land.
Scarf + Jacket
Bring a heavy scarf and jacket to keep you warm on long flights. A scarf can be used as a pillow or blanket if necessary. I even bring gloves and an extra pair of thick, fuzzy socks because without them, I’ll be too cold to sleep. The person sitting next to you might find your gloves a bit odd at first, but later on they’ll be jealous when they’re shivering while you stay warm and cozy.
Portable Phone Charger
Most planes have outlets to plug in a charger, but I’ve found that some outlets don’t always work. If it’s important that you have a working phone when you land, make sure you bring a portable charger as a backup if the outlets aren’t working.
Notebook + Pencil
Sure, planes usually have movies for you to watch. But sometimes 14+ hours of movies can feel a little mind-numbing. I like to have a notebook at hand so I can brainstorm article ideas, write said articles, or create to-do lists. I’m the kind of person who loves making lists, so I like to create itineraries to follow when I reach my destination. I also write down names of people I need to find souvenirs for.
*I don’t think it needs to be said, but you also should have your passport and any important documents with you on your flight. Make sure you’ve written down the address of wherever you’ll be staying and have photocopies of your passport at hand.
In a few days, I’ll be in France (Paris and a few nearby cities)! I will begin posting blogs about my trip shortly after I return (June 22nd). While in France, I will only be posting to my Instagram (@Janinenissa) so follow me there if you want live updates. If you have any recommendations of places to visit/eat/shop/etc in Paris, let me know!
Love this! The empty water bottle is a must. I am going to follow you on insta now! xx
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Very good suggestions. It’s been a while since I’ve been on a long international flight.
I take two or three hour domestic flights a couple times a year. I really don’t mind flying. I just really don’t like all the waiting in line at the airport beforehand. It’s actually a relief to finally get on the plane!
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Thanks for checking out my blog, Janine! Just read this and couldn’t agree more about bringing candies on a flight – I recently flew from Italy and had SUCH a plugged ear! Could’ve used a lollipop 🙂 Excited to read more of your posts!
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Greetings and Blessings to you! 🙂
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Agree with you! I cant stand long haul flight without charger, mask and lotion too ❤️
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Reblogged this on THE WANDERER.
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This was very helpful! 🙂
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Reblogged this on The Kerry Diaries and commented:
This list of travelling essentials is on point!
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Such a great post!! My must haves for long flights are snacks and face masks as well!
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My sister is planning on making a trip soon so I will definitely be showing this to her! Great post!
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Thank you! I hope she enjoys her trip!
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Great tips..
https://scoopsnvogue.com/2017/06/07/from-one-kind-of-runway-to-another-travel-stlylish/
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Awesome tips! I have a long flight coming up and just added your trips to my carry on packing list! Thanks!
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Great tips will definitely be using this for my trip to Thailand this year- Thanks!
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Hey! I just wanted to notify you that I have nominated your wonderful blog for the sunshine blogger award. Find the details here https://thesparklingsuitcase.wordpress.com/2017/07/27/the-sunshine-blogger-award/
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So funny – transatlantic flights are my favourite! I should mention that I am really short – so i usually have no space issues. I also liked their food to be honest 😀
Love the tops though – and yes, that freezing cold is real in a plane – you NEED something to cover up; and not the “blanket” they hand you :))
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Long flights are unforgettable
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