A large empty water bottle
Travelling in an airtight cabin can dehydrate your body of up to 1.5 litres every 3 hours. Dehydration can lead to things like a headache, dizziness and irritability. To help you stay hydrated, pack a large empty water bottle and ask a crew member to fill it up for you at the beginning of the flight. This will allow you to take regular sips throughout, without depending on meal times for small amounts of water. Make sure to keep this bottle in the seat basket so it’s a visual reminder for you to drink and in arm’s reach.
A neck pillow, eye mask, and ear plugs
When it comes to sleep, there are three things you can pack that will make zoning out much easier. Pack a pair of earplugs to help block out surrounding noise. It’s worth trying a few different kinds beforehand to see if you prefer silicone or foam. Secondly, wear an eye mask. This will block out light from screens and cabin exit signs allowing you to better relax and drift off. Thirdly, use a neck pillow. This can help avoid neck strain by providing your head some cushioned support. Tip: buy yourself a carabiner to attach the neck cushion to the outside of your carry-on rather than packing it.
A face mask and hand sanitiser
While the worst of the pandemic appears to be behind us, there’s still a risk of catching COVID-19 or other bugs when travelling. Wear a face mask in between meal time and pack a pocket-sized hand sanitiser to use before eating.
Non-caffeinated tea bags
If you’re one of those people who likes to settle in with a nice hot drink, it’s best to come prepared for your long-haul journey. Caffeinated drinks, like coffee and black tea, can further dehydrate your body as well as increase your energy levels instead of helping you relax and get some sleep. Pack a few of your own herbal tea bags in a travel mug, such as chamomile and peppermint, and ask the cabin crew to provide you with hot water.
A comfy hoodie
Ever had the bad experience of getting cold on a plane and not having the option to reach for a warm layer? Pack a comfortable hoodie that you can zip up and pull over your head. This will also indicate to others when you’re trying to get some shut-eye and don’t want to be disturbed (even when the food trolley is passing). If you’re travelling to a hot climate, it’s still a good idea to have an extra layer on hand for the flight. Look for a hoodie that you can easily fold and throw into your carry-on when you disembark and walk out of the airport. Generally, it also helps to wear comfortable clothing for long flights.
Key toiletries
Stick to the essentials: a toothbrush, toothpaste, moisturiser and roll-on deodorant. This will allow you to freshen up mid-flight and when you land. These will also come in handy in case your checked baggage gets delayed in transit. Remember that any toiletry liquids or gels must be in containers of 100 millimetres or less and carried in a transparent, resealable bag.
Other travel essentials
Don’t forget your must-haves: phone charger, adaptor, passport, a good read… Remember, it can be hard to find Australian adaptors outside of the country, so consider also packing a power board so you can run multiple appliances from the one connection.
And you’re ready for take-off!
With these plane essentials, you’re all set to emerge from your long-haul flight feeling relaxed, refreshed, and ready to hit the ground running.
Always be on the safe side when you travel by taking out comprehensive travel insurance. Medibank Travel Insurance gives you overseas hospital, accident and medical evacuation cover while you’re travelling. And with our comprehensive plans, you'll have cover for a host of other surprises like lost luggage, unforeseen cancellations and rental car insurance excess. *
Plus, Medibank health members get 15% off and Priority members get 20% off.
