Items Our Travel Editors Won’t Fly Without

Flying at 35,000 feet comes with its advantages and disadvantages. It’s obvious that the cabin you’re flying in matters – premium classes offer more than just extended legroom. But when you’re up there, strapped to your seat, even the smallest things can make a huge difference, adding that extra bit of comfort to your travels. 

A soft blanket will make you feel warm and cosy while noise-cancelling headphones will drown out the sounds of a crying baby – the bane of anyone’s flight. A hydrating face mask will keep you fresh when you land at your destination, allowing you to get moving from touchdown. As a frequent flyer and traveller, I too, have my rituals, and items I cannot bring myself to travel without – to the point that I’d rather be late than fly without them. Here are some essential items to carry aboard every long-haul flight. 

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Noise Cancelling headphones

I understand even in economy class, airlines offer headphones. However, while these may serve the purpose of audio, it doesn’t do much in terms of cancelling out the sounds of your fellow travellers. Silence is golden, and I never travel without it. Be it pre-downloaded Netflix episodes, getting in some sleep or listening to music, nothing blocks out cabin chatter better than these. 

Moisturiser

Yes, I am a man, and yes, I do value my skin, so one of the first items added to my carry-on bag is moisturiser. Personally, I have formed a loving relationship with Aesop’s Blue Chamomile Facial Hydrating Masque. The formula is more intense than a hydrating cream, but it serves its purpose to hydrate and protect skin on long-haul flights. The mask is refreshing and cool and allows your skin to look hydrated and fresh overnight. 

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Hoodie or Jumper

You know it, I Know it, the airlines know it – it’s cold up there at 35,000 feet, even when the cabin temperature is controlled. A hoodie or jumper is essential to keeping you warm, be it on the flight, during a long stopover, or even when landing at your destination in the evening or in the morning chill. The hood also serves to keep your head warm should you require it on the flight. 

Luggage Tracker

2022 was supposedly the year of lost luggage. For that reason, 2023 is the year of the smart tracker. These accessories are important in flights that involve a stopover, or when travelling with bulkier items that typically take longer to make onto the carousel. Ensure that your tag is securely attached to your check-in luggage and download the relevant apps. Not only is it useful in finding your luggage, but it also gives your travel look an added extra. 

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Travel Pillow

Flying in 2023 should be a comfortable experience, and if you aren’t flying premium, then make sure you get yourself a flying pillow. The small pillows provided by the airline don’t do much to keep your head from falling to either side, the latest styles are compact and offer better front and back support to allow you a comfortable sleep while sitting upright.