Favorite Essentials for Long Haul Flights: Mom Edition
I’ve been traveling on long haul flights since I was 11 months old, so I consider myself to be a bit of an expert. Spending hours in the air is a lot more enjoyable when I have some of my creature comforts with me.
Lululemon Snap Scarf: I can’t believe people aren’t screaming from the rooftops about this scarf. It is the ultimate blanket scarf, but it also has snaps that can turn it into an infinity scarf. It’s so, so soft. I’ve used it as a scarf, a nursing cover, a blanket, and a shawl. The best part is that it is easy to wash, which is KEY! After sitting on a dirty airplane for hours, the first thing I want to do is throw my scarf in their washing machine and get all those germs out. It’s truly the best. Make sure you check the Lululemon sale section, because it you can find it there sometimes!
Noise cancelling headphones: Most of my trips lately have been with my kiddo so I haven’t been able to get much use out of these. But they are great for blocking out the loud noises that go along with an airplane. These ones are great because they don’t give me that “pressure” feeling that some noise canceling headphones do.
Reusable water bottle: I love to fill my water bottle up before the flight because I drink a ton of water. I love the ones from Hydroflask.
Compression Socks: I have a general rule. If the flight is more than 4 hours, I’m putting on compression socks. Not only do you land with feet that are less puffy, but they decrease your risk of developing a life threatening deep vein thrombosis. My favorite brands are Sockwell and Comrad.
Travel pillow: I think I have gone to the ends of the earth looking for the perfect travel pillow. I also recognize that this is a personal preference because it’s whatever feels comfortable to you. The ones that are U shaped and go around your neck just do not do it for me — in fact, they make me even more uncomfortable because I feel like my neck juts out at a weird angle, plus they take up a ridiculous amount of space in my bag. My preferred one is inflatable (less room in your bag!) and can be leaned on. I slept 7 hours on a flight to Dubai with this baby, and I rarely am able to sleep on planes. It’s a must have for me!
Hand sanitizer: This one is kind of obvious. I always wash my hands in the bathroom, but when I get to my seat I always make sure to apply some hand sanitizer. That’s because airplane bathroom water is notoriously dirty. Bonus points if your hand sanitizer smells nice. My mom swears by this one from Aesop, but I’m basic and love a good bottle of Purell.
I also keep a small bag in the seat pocket that is easily accessible, filled with things I might need. This usually consists of a sleepy mask (8), mints, hand lotion, and eye drops (9) (my eyes get so dry on a plane!). That’s usually where I will keep my hand sanitizer, also!
I love hearing what everyone else is packing for travel these days, so let me know in the comments below with your must haves for traveling!