IN FLIGHT ESSENTIALS
Ever wondered what to take when you embark on a long haul flight? Packing for a trip can be stressful, we we’ve done the hard yards for you on what we think are essential things to keep with you on the plane.
With Australia being so isolated from the rest of the world, we’ve had our fair share of super long flights from anywhere between 6-18hours straight on the plane. We like to think we have gotten pretty good at packing what we think are essentials that will keep us relatively sane and occupied during the long flights.
PASSPORT & OTHER IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS
Of course it goes without saying that the most important thing you need to make sure you pack on with your carry on is your passport! You won’t be going anywhere without it.
I also like to be prepared by printing out all important documents so that I have a physical copy with me in case my phone or internet isn’t working. My folder will include my itinerary, boarding passes, travel insurance, visas, and a photocopy of my passport.
Check, double check, then check again to make sure you have everything before you leave for the airport!
PHONE
It goes without saying that nearly everyone will be taking their phone with them. What’s handy now is that some carriers will have USB ports in the back of the chairs so you don’t have to worry about wasting the battery! Before you jump on a flight, download some offline games, movies and TV series that you can watch if you get bored of the in-flight entertainment.
HEADPHONES
Our number one saviour. Most carriers will provide little earphones for your use when watching movies, however, we prefer a heavy duty, noise cancelling headphone. They are more comfortable to wear for long periods of time and really help you tune out from all those noises you hear in the cabin. We prefer a wireless bluetooth headphone so you don’t get tangled up in the cords.
Try out the Beats Solo3. I have the rose gold colour and absolutely love them. They are comfortable on the head and can wear them for hours.
PORTABLE CHARGER
Portable chargers are a must have item for any traveller these days. They are super convenient and give you the reassurance that your electronics won’t run out during the day! Even if you know your plane has a USB port in the chairs, take one just in case. You will definitely use it when you are out and about during your travels.
It can be a bit daunting trying to find a good, reliable charger. This Anker PowerCore 13000mAh or Anker 20000mAh seems to be good everyday chargers. If you are after something more heavy duty, this Charmast Power Bank 26800mAh will do the job.
A GOOD BOOK
Whilst most people will now opt for a Kindle to do their reading, we still recommend a good old fashion hardback or paperback. We say this because a lot of hotels/hostels have a little library section where you can leave your book once it’s been read and take another that someone has left behind. We think this is a really nice little idea.
MEDICATION
We’ve always been told to take all essentials on the plane with you. If you need to take medication, keep it in your carry on. Take the packets out of their boxes and fold down the boxes to save on space – you may need the boxes going through airport security to prove what medications you have. We also recommend seeing your doctor before you leave for your holiday to write a travel list of prescriptions and over the counter medications you take for that added security that the airport won’t confiscate them.
A SPARE CHANGE OF CLOTHES
This one may take up a little bit of space but we like to be prepared. Take an extra pair of undies if you are doing a super long haul flight with a layover. When you’re waiting around for that second flight it is so nice to change your clothes so you feel more refreshed. We also always carry an extra change of clothes just in case our luggage goes missing!
TRAVEL PILLOW
This one is also very personal to each individual. There are so many to choose from so make sure it is right for you! I prefer to take along a little tube beach pillow whilst others prefer proper neck ones.
FOOT HAMMOCK
A foot hammock will change your travelling life. It is honestly my favourite thing when flying because it helps you get more comfortable. I like to put my legs up when I am sitting and the foot hammock allows me to rest my legs or feet in a way that you wouldn’t normally be able to in a plane.
For only a few dollars you can get one from eBay or Amazon, and trust me, you won’t regret it.
CASH
Cash is a must have when travelling. Even if you don’t usually carry cash, it is a good idea to carry at least a few small notes in the currency of the country you are headed to. It is helpful when you arrive so you can catch a taxi or public transport using spare change.
SNACKS
We’ve all been there – disliking the plane food or getting hungry in between meals. We always bring a few snacks to have on the plane and nibble on them when we like. It’s cheaper than buying food on board. If you have children, this is a must because chances are they won’t eat all the plane food! Just make sure that what you bring in packaged food, such as lollies, pringles, and bottled water.
