Top 10 Long-Haul Flight Essentials for Carry-On Travelers ✈️

Jen Hamilton
May 12
6 min read

My husband and I are just finishing up our packing as we get ready to head out the door for our 5:15am flight to Barcelona.

We’re about to set sail on Viking’s Iconic Mediterranean Cruise, and this part—the long-haul flight—is where the trip really begins.

We travel carry-on only (yep, even for two weeks in Europe), so space is precious.

That means every item we pack has to earn its place. No fluff, no “maybe I’ll use it” clutter—just intentional pieces that actually make a long-haul flight feel more comfortable, organized, and a little more peaceful.

I LOVE checking out what other people recommend for long-haul flights and have picked up great tips. I thought you might find these helpful for your next trip.

These are our ride-or-die flight essentials—things we never board without.

10. Organizer Insert for your Under Seat Personal Item

I can't stand not being able to find what I'm looking for in my bag, how about you? This insert keeps personal items neat, organized, and easy to access. It's available for totes & backpacks. No more digging around for gum, wipes, earbuds, snacks & more. The middle divider is removable and has a large zippered pocket. Everything has a place & it's neat and tidy. I have several of these and use them every day. Get more information here.

9. Earplanes

These pressure-relief earplugs are a lifesaver for takeoff and landing. Especially if you’re prone to ear pain or congestion. For whatever reason, my right ear gets really irritated when taking off and landing and these have been a total game-changer. They come in a little round case. I keep them in the box, so they don't get lost. Get more information here.

8. Airplane Tray Cover & Pocket

No more digging into the grungy seatback pocket of mystery. This handy organizer gives you clean, easy-access storage for everything you actually need mid-flight and also covers the tray. I try not to be a total germaphobe...but it's an airplane - and nobody wants to pick up any extra germs. This is light, washable, takes up very little space and keeps all of my items easily accessible. Get more information here.

7. Airplane Flight Travel Pillow

This is the only travel pillow that hasn’t ended up in the “what was I thinking?” pile. Travel pillows are so subjective and not everyone needs one, especially when packing carry-on only. As I've gotten older, and have been struggling with inflammation and arthritis, I've started having neck issues. This one actually supports your neck, can be used as additional neck support in a hotel (or on a cruise!), and it’s soft and smushes enough to keep packing simple. Get more information here.

6. Blackout Sleep Mask

I use this every single night. Blocks everything, feels like a cloud. It has cutouts over the eyes so there's no pressure on your eyeballs and doesn't squish your eyelashes. Definitely essential for sleeping through cabin lights, flickering screens, and reading lights. Get more information here.

5. Slim Portable Charger

I like that this portable charger is thin & powerful, and not brick-heavy (it's not light, though.) This is what keeps our devices alive on 10+ hour days with no outlets in sight. Get more information here.

4. JBL Noise Canceling Earbuds

This is my all-time favorite. They go with me everywhere. And they won't break your heart (or your budget) if you lose them, compared to airpods. They're comfy, compact, and the noise-cancelling works pretty well for the price point. These block out engine hum and cabin chaos so I can relax, meditate, or sleep like a human again. https://amzn.to/3SAppAU

3. Phone-Tablet Stand

This stand is so great! I use it all the time. When we fly, I bring my Kindle & it's loaded with books, TV shows & movies. This stand is bendy and holds your phone or tablet perfectly for in-flight bingeing - without the tray-table balancing act. It's also perfect while waiting for your next flight in a quiet corner nook. It folds flat, weighs nearly nothing, and takes up virtually no space. Get more information here.

2. Flat Water Bottle (17 oz.)

I had no idea how much I would love this water bottle! Slim and refillable, so we can stay hydrated without lugging a clunky bottles around. It tucks in anywhere - even in my crossbody bag and my husband's cargo pants. Perfect for the seat pocket in the airplane, too. Get more information here.

1. Airfly Pro - Bluetooth Converter

If I had to only pick one thing for flights - THIS would be it. I couldn't find ours for this trip, so I bought another one...it's THAT essential! This lets us use our wireless earbuds with the seatback screen, kindle, or even the headphones for cruise tours! No cords. No uncomfortable airline or tour headphones. Just our own audio, the way we like it. And TWO sets of earbuds can connect to this version. Get more information here.

Bonus Favorite! Luggage Cup Holder

Not essential...just delightful. Perfect for holding my coffee or water while juggling boarding passes, bags (and my sanity) while schlepping across the airport concourses. I don't always take this, but if I'm bringing a backpack for my personal item - and especially if I'm traveling alone - I bring this to hold my beverages. It folds flat. Doesn't take up much space.

Final Thoughts

These aren’t just Amazon finds. They’re the little luxuries that make long-haul travel feel calmer, smoother, and more intentional. And yes—you can absolutely do it all carry-on only.

Have questions about what else makes travel easier (or want help planning your next perfectly tailored trip)? Just reach out. You know I’m always here to make it simple for you.

Just a note

Some of these are affiliate links, which means I may earn a very small commission if you decide to purchase (think “treat myself to a stick of gum” small.) It doesn’t cost you anything extra, but it helps me continually learn more & educate my clients in the best way possible. Thanks!

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