My Must-Have Essentials for a Long-Haul Flight

Travelling long distances can be challenging, especially when you’re dealing with a chronic illness. As I prepare for my upcoming trip from Australia to the USA, I’ve put a lot of thought into what I’ll need to stay comfortable, healthy, and organised. Here’s what I’m packing to make sure I arrive feeling as good as possible.

Comfort First: My Travel Outfit

When it comes to flying, comfort and warmth are my top priorities. I always dress in layers, so I can adjust to the varying temperatures on the plane. Here’s what I’m wearing:

• Travel socks: To help prevent blood clots during the long flight.
• Slip-on sneakers: Easy to remove at security and slip on and off on the plane.
• Extra pair of socks: I wear these over my travel socks when I’m ready to sleep.
• Long-sleeved shirt: My go-to is a Crane shirt from Aldi—perfect for layering.
• Lululemon tights: Comfortable and flexible for the long hours of sitting.
• Thermal Theory jumper: With handy pockets, this jumper is great for extra warmth.
• Ornate coat: I always bring this to ensure I stay warm, especially since blankets aren’t always guaranteed in economy.

My Essential Carry-On Bag

I rely on a ridiculously helpful bag from Peak Design for my carry-on. Originally designed for camera equipment, it’s perfect for travel with its origami-inspired compartments. Here’s what I keep in this trusty bag:

• Passport: A must-have for any international trip.
• Business cards: Handy for networking or simply staying in touch with people I meet along the way.
• Hydration salts: To stay hydrated and avoid the dreaded dehydration that can come with long flights.
• Sanitation essentials: Including hand sanitiser and wipes to keep things clean and hygienic.
• Band-aids and blister packs: Just in case I need to tend to any minor injuries or blisters.
• Jewellery: I prefer to keep this in my carry-on rather than checked luggage, just in case anything goes missing.
• Tissues and a hanky: For any spills, sneezes, or general freshness.
• Pen: Essential for filling out customs forms and any other paperwork during the flight.
• Reading glasses: A necessity for reading on the flight, whether it’s a good book or the in-flight menu.
• Muesli bars: Because I always like to have a snack on hand to keep hunger at bay.

My Small Wheelie Bag Essentials

Travelling alone means I like to have everything I need close at hand, so I also pack a small wheelie travel bag to ensure I’m well-prepared for the journey. Here’s what I’ve packed in it:

• Medications: I keep all my medications in a clear plastic bag, in their original packaging, along with a letter from the pharmacist to clarify that they’re prescribed to me. This makes it easy to navigate any questions or checks during security.
• Skincare Kit: Flying can wreak havoc on the skin, so I’ve packed a clear zip bag with some essentials to keep my skin hydrated and clean:
• Simple cleansing wipes: Perfect for refreshing during the flight.
• Go-To Much Plumper Skin (hyaluronic acid): Keeps my skin hydrated and plump.
• Paula’s Choice Super Antioxidant Concentration Serum: A powerhouse in a tiny travel-sized packet.
• Go-To Face Hero: A hydrating oil that locks in moisture.
• Palmer’s Cocoa Butter: I use this all over my face to prevent dryness—works wonders in-flight.
• Nail file and hair tie: Handy for keeping everything tidy and neat.
• Sleep Pack: To make sure I rest well on the plane:
• TRTL neck brace/pillow: My first time trying this highly recommended neck pillow.
• Eye mask and earplugs: For blocking out the light and noise.
• Bose headphones: To truly zone out and get some rest.
• Yeti drink bottle: Refillable and perfect for staying hydrated throughout the journey.
• iPad mini: Ideal for reading without the bulk of physical books.
• HP laptop and all necessary cords and converters: So I can stay connected and productive if needed.
• Lipsticks: I like to have a few options on hand, though I skip makeup on the plane to keep my skin clear.
• Travel Documentation: I have a little parcel with all my paperwork, including travel documents, hotel bookings, and any other important information. This is a backup in case I can’t access my phone or something goes wrong.

Lastly, I’m trying out a digital SIM for this trip, which should make staying connected easier. I’m really looking forward to seeing how it works! With all these essentials packed, I’m confident I’ll arrive in the USA as healthy and prepared as possible. After arriving at midnight, I’ve scheduled a rest day to recover before my talk the following day, and I couldn’t be more excited about it!

P.S.

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