Things To Keep Handy During Long Flights
If you have a long flight ahead of you, chances are that you have a natural instinct to pack everything that you own to make the flight as comfortable as possible. When you do some online shopping, you are going to find millions of different products that are touted as “travel necessities.” Because there are so many different options available, it might be easy to go overboard with your packing options when you go on a long flight.
There is a problem with that though – you might be able to toss your bulging carry-on under the seat in front of you, but if you are flying coach, chances are that you will not be able to grab it at all. If we look at how close those seats are placed together, you might be lucky if you are able to feel your legs after the flight is over – let alone be able to grab something from underneath the seat.
After experiencing that a few times, I realized that I needed to store my stuff a bit smarter, a bit more selectively. This is why I have a list of things that I suggest that you keep in the back pocket of your seat for easy access on a long flight.
Bottled Water
We already know that hydration is essential during our flights. Especially when we are up in the air, it is essential that we keep hydrated. Even though hydration is essential for all flights, it is particularly crucial on long flights. It is crucial that we keep our water handy, because spending hours in the air is going to suck the moisture from our body. By having easy access to a bottle of water, you are not at the whim of the flight attendant who is going to provide you with occasional beverages.
Your Phone And Noise-Cancelling Earbuds
Unless you are enjoying the in-flight entertainment, chances are that you want to avoid as many of the random plane noises as possible. This goes double for the moment that you are trying to catch some shuteye during your flight. While the full-sized noise-cancelling headphones are ideal for any flight, the noise-cancelling earbuds are a good alternative if you want to conserve space in your carry-on option. I have personally tried a white noise app on my phone while flying, and it really allows you to isolate yourself from the rest of the plane.
E-Book And Magazine
Even though most planes have an in-flight entertainment option, you might just find that there is nothing that you want to watch. Perhaps you have already seen all the movies and series, perhaps you just do not feel like watching a movie. During those moments, your e-reader is able to offer you some relief, help you kill some time. However, what about those moments when you are asked to ‘switch off your electronic devices’? During those moments, it is good to have an actual book or magazine that you can rely on.
Your Comfort Bag
You want a Ziploc bag that is full of items that can help you feel refreshed and comfortable. Some of my favourite items that are included in this type of bag include hand sanitizer, deodorant, Pepto-Bismol, ibuprofen, disposable toothbrushes, lip balm, lotion, moisturizer, and face wipes. It is a good idea to be as comfortable as possible during a long flight.
Your Sleep Gear
Especially on a longer flight, it is essential that you try to get some sleep. That is why I carry a Ziploc bags where I keep all my sleep aids together. This includes my travel blanket, an inflatable pillow, Tylenol PM (to help me sleep if I cannot fall asleep), and an eye mask to block out light.
I know that some people prefer to have a laptop handy during their flight, but I have always found that these are rather difficult to keep in front of you. For me it is simply not feasible, there just is not enough room. At the end, you have to do what is comfortable for you.
Bradley McGowan is a US based freelance writer, extensive traveller and a regular contributor to The Wise Traveller.
