The best travel essentials for flying can make all the difference between a stressful trip and a smooth, comfortable journey.
When it comes to red-eye flights, I’m a huge fan—honestly, I think they’re the best. Why? Because you can sleep, and there’s usually minimal noise since everyone on board wants to do the same thing—rest!
Over the years, I’ve found a few must-have travel accessories that make long flights so much more enjoyable. These favorites help me stay comfortable, relaxed, and ready to hit the ground running when I land.
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Travel essentials For flying – What to Bring
Bring Your Own Blanket
Whatever you do, do NOT use the airplane blanket for anything other than your legs or feet. Do not put these blankets on your bare skin!
Also, airplane seats are rarely, if ever, cleaned. Think about how many people sit in them, sweat in them, pass gas in them…you don’t want to have that fabric touching your skin.
Bring your own travel blanket so you can guarantee that you are wrapped in something clean.
Bring Your Own Pillow
Whether you have a window, aisle, or middle seat, a pillow can be your best friend. I prefer to bring my pillow from home because it’s super soft and I can put it up against the window and fall fast asleep.
If I have a middle or an aisle seat, I bring one of my other pillows that wrap around my neck which allows me to relax no matter what seat I have. You can get one of my favorite travel pillows here.
In Menopause? Here are a few things you need:
a portable fan: This is the one I use and I love it. It has 6 settings and does the trick when your body is betraying you.
compression socks: Our legs are not the same as they were, so help take care of them by getting a good pair of compression socks.
Pack a pair of socks
If you are like me and your feet get cold when you are on a flight, then socks are definitely something you need.
But you don’t want just ordinary socks. You want some super comfy and fluffy socks that make your feet feel like they are being cradled the whole flight. You can get a fab pack of fuzzy socks here.
A pair of house slippers can also come in handy. Click here to see the ones I use.
Don Your Eye Mask
If you happen to be stuck next to someone who insists on using their light during the flight, you will need a way to shield your eyes from the glare.
An eye mask will do that for you and you can be stylish while doing it, depending on which one you choose. I have the one above in purple and pink.
Earplugs
I personally can’t fall asleep with headphones or earbuds. However, if those work for you then make sure to bring them.
I prefer earplugs because they are inexpensive and they don’t take up any room in your purse or carry-on bag.
It is always a good idea to bring earplugs with you in case your batteries fail on your technology and you still need to have quiet.
They are super cheap and can be found in almost any store in any city. If you don’t feel like searching the aisles for earplugs, order your earplugs from Amazon and make your life easier!
Sleep Aid
Sometimes you need a little help falling asleep. I like using Zzzquil, it has helped me stay asleep and there are no side effects.
I also use Advil PM which I find always does the trick. There are also tons of natural products that can help you get some sleep (melatonin works for me).
If you need something stronger, consult your doctor before flying and see what is best for you.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste
When you wake up you will probably have yuck mouth. Don’t be alarmed, you can easily fix it. Get a travel toothbrush and toothpaste and you will be as good as new when you wake up. Mouthwash can also do the trick.
Download movies/TV shows
Do not rely on the airplane WiFi, make sure to have your favorite shows and/or movies downloaded. And if you plan on playing games, verify they do not need WiFi to work as not all airplanes have great service.
Facial products
Those bathroom sinks are super small, and don’t leave much room to take care of your hygiene. These water activated cleansing melts will keep your face clean and refreshed
When you pair them with these heart shaped compressed facial sponges, you’ll be able to clean your face with ease.
This airplane pocket is a game-changer! You can put your travel essentials in here and not worry about leaving them on the plane. The fabric is soft and easy to fit on the seat in front of you.
Red Eye Flight Tips – Etiquette
Keep your laughter and talking to a minimum
On a red eye flight, most people are trying to sleep. It would be completely rude to talk loudly or laugh uncontrollably at the movie or TV show you are watching.
Of course, you have the right to laugh, but your flight isn’t a comedy club. Keep your laughter at a reasonable volume in order to respect the passengers around you.
Go easy on the drinks
If you are one of those people that have to use the bathroom every hour, would it kill you to not drink a bunch on the flight?
No one wants you to be dehydrated, but if you have a window seat there is an expectation that you won’t be getting up 10 times during a 6-hour flight. Isn’t that reasonable?
Your Tray Table Is Not Your Play Area!
This is a rule whether you are on a red eye flight or not but come on…why do people use the tray table as their personal play area?
Sometimes I swear someone is behind my beating on the tray table like they are doing a drum solo for a sold-out crowd.
Just remember, someone is sitting in the seat attached to that tray table and they are trying to sleep.
So please, be mindful of how you bang, slam, pound on and place your things on it. Of course, you can use it, that is what it is there for but just be aware of how your actions are affecting others.
Oh and don’t forget to also think about those behind you when you decide when to recline your seat.
I hope my red eye flight tips have been helpful. Now don your fuzzy socks, eye mask and earplugs and enjoy your flight!
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