There’s something oddly satisfying about packing for a long flight. The tiny travel bottles, the neatly folded layers, the snacks just in case—it's all part of the adventure. But no matter how prepared you think you are, there's always something you wish you hadn’t left behind.

On my recent 10-hour flight, I thought I had it all figured out. Spoiler alert: I didn’t. Here’s a look inside what I packed—and what I’ll never forget again.

What I Packed (And Was So Glad I Did)

1. Noise-Canceling Headphones

These were a game changer. Between crying babies, chatty passengers, and engine hum, my headphones were my ticket to peace. Whether I was watching a movie or just listening to white noise, they made the flight far more bearable.

2. Neck Pillow & Eye Mask

I used to roll my eyes at neck pillows—until I actually used one. Combined with a soft, blackout eye mask, I managed to get a solid 4 hours of sleep. That’s a win on any flight longer than six hours.

3. Hydration Essentials

I packed a refillable water bottle and some facial mist. Staying hydrated in that dry cabin air made a noticeable difference in how I felt upon landing. I also threw in lip balm and moisturizer, and I’m glad I did—my skin thanked me later.

4. Entertainment Downloads

A mix of podcasts, Netflix downloads, and a good book kept me entertained when the in-flight entertainment system was… let’s just say “dated.” Lesson: never rely on what the airline provides.

5. Snacks

Protein bars, mixed nuts, and some dried fruit saved me from hanger between meals. Airline food doesn’t always hit the mark, and it’s nice to have options you actually enjoy.

What I Regret Leaving Behind

1. A Lightweight Blanket or Shawl

The in-flight blanket was thin and scratchy. I wished I’d brought a soft pashmina or travel blanket. Next time, it’s going in the bag—even if it takes up space.

2. Toothbrush and Toothpaste

This one hurt. Nothing beats brushing your teeth after a long flight. I forgot mine in my checked luggage and regretted it by hour seven. A simple travel-size dental kit goes a long way.

3. Extra Socks

I wore compression socks (smart move), but didn’t bring a cozy pair for sleeping. Cold feet aren’t fun when you’re trying to nap at 35,000 feet.

4. Pain Relievers & Eye Drops

I had a mild headache and dry eyes midway through the flight—and nothing to fix it. A small pouch with travel-size medicine is officially on my must-pack list going forward.

Final Thoughts

Packing for a long-haul flight is all about striking the balance between comfort and practicality. While I got most things right, the few items I missed reminded me how even the smallest things can make a big difference. If you're prepping for a long journey soon, let this be your guide—and don’t forget that toothbrush

What are your flight booking hacks? Share them in the comments—I’m always looking for new travel hacks.