If it’s been a while since you went on a long flight, the prospect can seem daunting. Fear not! With a little preparation, you can arrive feeling fresh, comfortable and well rested.
Whether you are the kind of traveller who packs for every eventuality, or someone who is far happier with taking the bare minimum, the one bag you have in common is your carry-on. Think of your carry on luggage as your 24 hour survival kit. Pack the most important items for your comfort and convenience.
Firstly, space is at a premium on a plane. Choose a piece of luggage that is easy for you to carry and meets the requirements for size and shape – a small bag which can be wheeled through large airports will be most convenient.
We all love our own creature comforts, so always pack your favourite toiletries in travel-approved containers – (not more than 100ml). Pack these in a clear, resealable plastic bag, for ease when clearing customs.
As a guideline, pack:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Facial cleansing wipes/cleanser
- Moisturiser
- Lip Balm
- Eye drops
- Travel mirror
- Spare contact lenses
- Makeup
- Any medication you require
Other items such as perfume or aftershave will help keep you feeling a million dollars, but for the comfort of other passengers, apply them sparingly, and do so in the bathroom, rather than in your seat!
A fresh change of clothing is essential. Spills and accidents can happen to the most careful of us, and every few hours, clean clothing just makes you feel more comfortable. Check the weather at your destination and pack a change of clothing which is appropriate for the temperature, culture and occasion. Flying in comfortable, loose fitting clothing is advisable, but if you are meeting a client straight off the flight, you may need to sharpen up your style prior to disembarking.
Choose lightweight, non-crushable clothing for carry on luggage, that is easy to change into – an aeroplane bathroom isn’t the place to be squeezing into your tightest jeans. And remember what your mother or grandmother told you – always have fresh underwear!
Plan your in-flight comfort
There is often a rush on the bathroom close to landing. If you are on a long flight, freshen up an hour or two before arrival – you are likely to have a little more time to work with, but be respectful if there is a line – change as quickly as you can.
In the case of unforeseen circumstances, the items you have in your 7kg bag may have to last you for longer than just the flight. Therefore, pack your tablet, laptop, headphones and anything you simply can’t be without when you land.
To arrive at your destination ready to take on a new day in a new country, try and get some sleep. If the movement and noise of others may disturb you, put a sleep mask and earplugs in your carry on luggage. Download a sleep app to your smartphone, which can be accessed when your phone is in flight mode, to help you drift off with soothing sounds. Keep an eye on your alcohol and caffeine intake on board if sleeping on a plane is hard for you.
If you are travelling with children, pack their own bag with their favourite toy, some activities to keep them quietly occupied, nappies and wipes if necessary and spare clothing.
For a wealth of other information to ensure your trip is a happy and straightforward one, click here for more.