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25 Budget-Friendly Carry On Essentials for Long Flights

We know you need the big things, like your phone, a great backpack, a change of clothes, your camera, and the necessary visas for when you land. But, this list focuses on the small items that can make long flights as comfortable as possible. While we all dream of flying in a lay-flat first-class seat, most of us are simply thrilled to be on the plane, heading somewhere fun. By adding some of these long-flight essentials to your travel gear, even the longest flights can be made more bearable. These items will help you feel more rested, hydrated, and ready to explore upon arrival.

Comfort is key on long flights, and small touches can make a big difference. Think about packing items like a hydration packs, face lotion, and ear plugs. Don’t forget an eye mask and earplugs to block out light and noise, ensuring you get some quality rest. Hydration is also crucial, so bring a refillable water bottle and moisturizing skincare products to combat the dry cabin air. Snacks, a good book , and a portable charger will keep you entertained and powered up throughout the journey. With these carry on essentials, you’ll arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready for adventure.

Power Bank

Dead phones, headphones, or electronics you’re using are a huge pain, but landing with a dead battery is stressful. Almost all planes will have outlets at your seat but you just never know. I always have a power bank in the bottom of my bag, I rarely use it on the flight but it feels like a little insurance policy.

Toiletry Bag

I love keeping my carry-on organized. Digging for items, especially in the dark, is a hassle. While I pack a full-size toiletry bag in my checked luggage, I carry a compact toiletry bag with essentials in my carry-on for easy access. I love this one because it doesn’t feel super feminine.

Fast Charger

I’m a huge fan of the fast chargers. I love popping my phone on the charger at the gate right before boarding. Protip – some planes only have USB plugs so be cautious not to bring this as your only charging option.

Tote Bag

I have long legs so having a bunch of stuff under my seat drives me nuts. I put a tote in my carry-on backpack and toss in the things I know I’ll need during the flight right before boarding. Plus, a tote is always nice to have as a day bag during the trip and I’ve been loving them as a little outfit accessory.

Books

We’re huge book fans here. We have a list of our favorite trans authors and our ultimate lesbian book list. What I really want to share, though, is how much we’ve been enjoying audiobooks lately. I think they’re such an airport, plane travel day hack.

Foot Hammock

A foot hammock has recently become an essential addition to my travel bag. I love how it allows me to change the angle of my hips and lower back. After a recent 14-hour flight, I felt significantly less stiff than usual, and I credit that to the foot hammock.

Passport Case

A little protection for one of the most important things I have. This one even has a slot for an Airtag and I tuck a bit of emergency cash in the passport case pocket.

Perfume Spray Bottle for Travel

Travel days are long and a few spritzes of perfume or cologne really make me feel better. I love these for on the flight or when I’m taking carry on only length trips. I’ve tried a few versions of these TSA approved perfume bottles and this version has lasted the longest.

Hat

Hats are great on flights for a couple of reasons. First, you can toss one on to cover up messy hair, and second, they help when the overhead AC is freezing you out. I choose between a beanie or a baseball hat based on the season and what I’d prefer to wear when leaving the airport.

Water Bottle

Let’s all agree to cut down on single-use plastics. When it comes to water bottles, there are plenty of great options, but I’ve found that this CamelBak bottle, in particular, has been durable, long-lasting, and never leaks.

Face Lotion

Flights can really dry out your skin, so it’s important to keep it hydrated. Both of these products are available in travel sizes, but you can also purchase larger versions and transfer them into small TSA-approved bottles.

Lightweight day time lotion we love this one by Peter Thomas Roth Hyaluronic Cloud Moisturizer. Its lightweight, doesn’t feel greasy and has SPF in it. If you need something a bit more resotrative and hydrating our favorite is by Lotus Youth Preserve Dream Face Cream.

Lip Balm

This is hands down the best lip balm I’ve ever used. It’s not sticky or greasy, doesn’t have a weird smell, and it’s incredibly hydrating. It’s expensive but it is worth it.

Eye Drops

Systane is what I’ve had an optometrist recommend for my super dry eyes. They work great but I also really like how well Lumify remove redness that I get after overnights.

Caffeine Bright-Eye Serum

Wake up your under-eyes with this caffeine roller after a long flight. It’s perfect for a quick pick-me-up if you have something to do right after landing.

Dry Shampoo

If you have thin or oiley hair means, dry shampoo is a life saver. A trusted femme said “this dry shampoo is so good it helps you look like you’re on day one of your wash cycle.”

Hydration Packs

I get really dehydrated on flights, which often leads to migraines or feeling rundown for the next day or two. I’ve started drinking more water the day before flying, and I’ve also added a hydration pack to my in-flight routine, which has made a huge difference. If there’s one item on this list that’s essential for me, it’s definitely this hydration pack. The rainbow sherbert flavor is chefs kiss.

Face Mist

Leaning into the need for hydration, this hydrating mist is great. It’s non-greasy and can be used on clean skin or over makeup, making it perfect for a mid-flight pick-me-up or a post-landing refresh.

Under Eye Patches

These l undereye patches are a fun little mid-flight skincare moment. They hydrate and they’ve won awards for depuffing under eyes. Plus, its just sort of fun to just pretend you’re not on a long flight for a moment.

Sheet Masks

I once saw a couple doing their sheet masks on a flight, and I thought it was adorable. Hydrate your skin, have fun—whatever it takes to get through your long-haul flight. These masks are super hydrating; I’ve used them at home and I’m sure they’d be great in the air too.

Ear Plugs

Ear plugs are essential for getting some sleep on a flight or taking a break from listening to music or movies.

Compression Socks

Compression socks are beneficial on flights for improving circulation and reducing swelling in the legs, making long periods of sitting more comfortable. I don’t love wearing them before or after the flight but they’re nice to pop on at takeoff if I’m going to be sitting more than 7 hours.

Neck Pillow

Neck pillows are a controversial choice; some people love them, while others can’t imagine a long flight without one. This is a nontraditional one that I’ve been dying to try since I spotted someone blowing it up. I saw someone on TikTok say its 100% worth the 5 minuets of embarrassment when blowing it up. Need to get my hands on one.

Eye Mask

I was initially skeptical about getting an eyemask, but they really do help me get solid rest. They’re also great for hotel rooms with bright lights outside or for catching a midday nap to escape jet lag.

Toothbrush

You could pack your regular toothbrush and toothpaste, but I prefer these little disposable toothbrushes that don’t need water. Airplane bathrooms gross me out, so I try to spend as little time in them as possible. These disposable brushes are perfect for freshening up quickly and easily.

Airplane Phone Holder

I’m a big fan of downloading Netflix shows and having a phone holder makes things easier on long flights. I’m a fan of this particular phone holder because I can use it with my case on. If you have a magsafe case I’d check out holders like this.

Airtag

Our AirTags have been lifesavers on more than our trip. Both Meg and I have them in our bags as well as any checked bags and would absolutely consider them carry on essentials. The batteries have lasted a few years, they’re lightweight and take up no space.

Ginger Chews

These are my absolute favorite for slight motion sickness and for helping my ears pop. You’re guaranteed to find a couple of these ginger chews in the bottom of my carry-on bag at all times.

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