A long flight can be both exciting and exhausting. Spending hours in the air often means dealing with dry cabin air, limited space and the challenge of staying comfortable, especially if you’re on an overnight flight.

The good news is that a little preparation can make all the difference. From comfort accessories to practical travel essentials, these are the items I always recommend packing to help make long flights more enjoyable, so you can arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to explore.

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1. A Passport Holder

A passport is one of the most important travel documents for international travel. A passport holder helps protect your passport from wear and tear, keeps it secure and helps you stay organized during transit.

2. A Smartphone Stand

A smartphone stand allows you to watch movies and videos hands-free. It’s a simple accessory to pack and makes long journeys more enjoyable.

3. A Neck Pillow

A neck pillow can make long overnight flights, train rides and road trips significantly more comfortable. It helps support your neck and encourages better rest while travelling.

4. & 5. A Sleep Mask and Earplugs

A sleep mask helps block out unwanted light and creates a more restful environment. It can be especially helpful on overnight flights and in unfamiliar accommodations.

Earplugs can help reduce noise and create a more peaceful travel experience. They are especially useful on airplanes, trains and in busy hotels.

6. A Travel Backpack

If there’s one thing that stresses me out during travel, it’s whether my carry-on suitcase will fit into the overhead cabin. Save yourself the stress by using a backpack as your personal item instead. It’s softer and smaller, which makes it easier to store. It keeps travel essentials within reach during your flight and keeps your electronics and documents organized. I also like to pack a couple key outfit and toiletry essentials in my backpack, just in case my luggage doesn’t arrive at my destination when I do.

7. Face Wipes

I always pack face wipes in my carry-on bag when I’m flying, especially on an overnight flight. I usually end up using one mid-flight to remove the day’s make-up and another right before I land to refresh and reset. Facial wipes are also great for quick cleanups when access to soap and water is limited.

8. A Breath Freshener

This is a travel essential for me, especially on overnight flights when it’s not easy to access water to brush my teeth. And yes, I know that every plane has a lavatory where you can access water, but have you ever seen the lineups for the lavatory right before the plane lands? Save yourself the trouble and use a breath freshener until you can brush your teeth at your hotel.

9. A Moisturizing Lip Balm

Because airplanes have a low level of humidity, having access to a moisturizing lip balm protects your lips against dryness during a flight. It’s a small item that can make a big difference in maintaining comfort throughout your trip.

10. A Moisturizing Hand Lotion

Frequent hand washing, air travel, and changing climates can leave skin feeling dry. A moisturizing hand lotion helps keep your hands soft and comfortable throughout your journey.

11. A Collapsible Water Bottle

A collapsible water bottle helps you stay hydrated while saving valuable space in your bag when not in use. It’s a practical alternative to purchasing single-use plastic bottles throughout your trip. Just remember to keep it empty until you’ve gone through security to adhere to airline restrictions. Many major airports have water filling stations available.

A long flight is part of the adventure when travelling, so packing a few thoughtful essentials in your carry-on ensures you can stay comfortable, organized and prepared from takeoff to landing.

Before you zip-up your suitcase…here’s a checklist to make sure you didn’t forget anything:

✓ A Passport Holder
✓ A Smartphone Stand
✓ A Neck Pillow
✓ A Sleep Mask
✓ Earplugs
✓ A Backpack
✓ Face Wipes
✓ A Breath Freshener
✓ A Moisturizing Lip Balm
✓ A Moisturizing Hand Lotion
✓ A Collapsible Water Bottle

My Top 4 Long Flight Essentials (if I could only bring 4!)

1. A Passport Holder
2. A Smartphone Stand
3. A Neck Pillow
4. Face Wipes

Before your next trip, take a moment to review this checklist above and consider adding a few of my top travel picks to your packing list. When you’re preparing for a trip, a little planning goes a long way, especially when it allows you to focus on what matters most: the adventure that’s waiting for you at your destination.

Just like French style, the best trips aren’t about packing more, they’re about packing better. Bon voyage!