Travel tips – Packing your carry on to make the most of economy!

Gosh, with a big week this week, I needed some organisation in my life! I love being over prepared (its definitely one of my flaws though!) and this trip was no different. I have been on a few international long haul flights before, so I definitely know what to pack now to make life a touch more comfortable. Also, this list has been heavily refined – the first few times flying I would pack EVERYTHING (and get giggles from the security checks..). Now if you are flying for the first time, or a frequent jet setter, I think I might have a few ideas for you!

If you’ve ever done a long haul flight, then you’d know that it can be a tough time! From the cramped leg room, to the stolen arm rest, lack of sleep and famously interesting on-board meals and snacks. Here are a few things that I like to take with

Top travels tips for your carry on luggage – rock long haul!

Starting off with the bag – now most people I know like a small back pack when traveling, personally I am a fan of the oversized tote – for me, it fits easier into the airport trollies and allows easy access when you need to quickly put something out. My advice? Find something that works for you!

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• Sanitizing wet wipes

Do you know how many people have sat in that seat before you? Care to guess when the last time it was wiped down? EW! Enough said.. (Also, I’m somewhat doubtful that every single person washes their hands after going to the loo)

• Warm cozy socks and airplane slippers

Keep your toes warm with a cozy pair of socks! Airplane slippers (preferably with a rubber sole) will protect your slippers from any spills on the floor (Hopeful that the liquid on the airplane’s bathroom is water?)

• Chewing gum, breath spray and a travel tooth brush set

Traveling for a 10+ hour flight with dinner in between can be draining. A simple brush of the teeth will leave you feeling refreshed! And added bonus – will get your out of your seat and get your blood circulation going! (Great for DVT prevention and overall circulatory health)

• A change of clothes for one the flight

Self explanatory and you will thank me from 30 000 ft. in the air 😉

• Face wipes and moisturizer

Traveling long hours on an airplane can really dry out your skin.

• Something to do

Trust me – there will be a moment that you will find yourself a little bored! A good book, adult coloring series or a fab magazine will help you pass the time. This is over and above the on board entertainment system. Also if you land up in a seat without a working entertainment system, its good to be prepared with something else to pass the time.

• A comfy seat cushion or neck pillow and foot rest  

Most of the airlines are updating their economy seats for smaller, more dense economy seats (something about money saving to be inserted here). Which means that the experience will become even more interesting and overall just more uncomfortable. Again, helps to be prepared – I usually take a seat cushion to sit on, making the seat comfortable for the duration of a 10+ hour flight as well as a neck cushion. The neck cushion is great for when you are reclined and relaxing. The foot rest I have is just a refashioned blow up camping pillow – works a treat at getting your feet raised.

• Headphones 

Don’t forget these! Perfect to watch all the series and movies on the on board entertainment system. I take two pairs – one on ear and one in-ear, I generally switch between the two for comfort!

• Yummy snacks

If you are looking for something healthy, personalized to you or enough to properly fill you up then this one is for you! Most of the snacks (and food) on the plane will be quick, easy and packaged – keep yourself satisfied with your own munchies!

• At least 1 set of clothes

I have been caught off guard before when my bag made itself all the way to Cairo (and I was not with it, by any stretch of the imagination), this comes in handy if you are caught overseas, away from home with no bag!

• Warm layers

Airplanes have regulated temperatures to make as many people as comfortable as possible. This means that it’s more than likely that your flight will be chilly. Be sure to take layers – jerseys, cardigans, scarves will help you a long for your flight – keeping you a comfortable temperature.

• An empty water bottle
  

Airplanes have incredibly dry air so make sure you stay hydrated. Taking a reusable water bottle with you that you can fill up once you are past security will make this much easier.

Lastly, be sure to keep your liquids in a clear plastic bag that seals – you need to present this when you go through security. Make it easier for yourself by keeping this close to the top of your bag.

I prefer to take my make up with me on-board – I have had make up break during trips, and its super depressing to open your make up bag and see everything destroyed! Remember to add liquid foundations, concealers, primers etc to your liquid bag! (Don’t get caught off guard and have to unpack everything in front of the security agent)