Every traveller’s headache is how to survive a marathon flight without losing your mind. Of course, you can’t pack your entire wardrobe or home entertainment system, but there’s a sweet spot between overpacking and being woefully unprepared.
Having travelled across continents numerous times, I’ve learned that one of the best ‘compromises’ is to bring along strategic essentials that make those endless hours in the sky not just bearable but potentially enjoyable.
Comfort fundamentals
1. Compression socks
Not just for your grandparents anymore. These bad boys prevent leg swelling and potential blood clots. Pro tip: Get ones with fun patterns to make a statement.
2. Travel neck pillow
Forget those bulky U-shaped monstrosities. Invest in a sleek, memory foam pillow that actually supports your neck and looks low-key cool. You will also want one that’s compact and travel-friendly. Plus point if they don’t heat up your neck.
Get the best travel neck pillow.
3. Layering Pieces
Aeroplane temperatures are wild – one minute, you’re freezing, and the next, you’re sweating. Pack a lightweight, packable jacket or oversized scarf that can double as a blanket. Think: versatile pieces that transition between aeroplane chill and destination warmth.
Try these layering pieces from Uniqlo.
Tech survival essentials
1. Noise-cancelling headphones
Non-negotiable. Whether you’re blocking out crying babies (remember, they’re allowed on planes, too) or trying to catch some sleep, these are your new best friends.
Best noise cancellation headphones for travel.
2. Portable charger
Because dying phone battery mid-flight is basically a nightmare scenario. Get one that can charge multiple devices and has enough juice to last the entire journey.
Our pick for an Apple portable charger.
Wellness hacks
Long-haul flights can be arduous, to say the least, and can wreak havoc on your body, but with some wellness know-how, you can sit back and enjoy the flight.
1. Hydration survival kit
This one may be of news to some, but flying can cause serious dehydration, so always having water handy is essential. Dehydration can lead to all sorts of unwelcoming issues, so pack smart and keep on sipping that H2O. Go sustainable, and instead of purchasing, bring a refillable water bottle. Go one step further with electrolyte packets, hydrating face mist, and a lip balm.
Zafigo’s favourite refillable water bottles.
2. Skincare essentials
Just because you’re travelling doesn’t mean you should neglect your skin. As we’ve said before, being up in the air can cause dehydration due to low cabin humidity and lower oxygen pressure. So pack these items in your carry-on:
- Makeup-removing wipes
- Compact moisturiser
- Hand sanitiser
- Travel-sized deodorant
- Sheet masks
3. What to wear: Comfort meets style
Long-haul flights often call for ready-to-wear pieces that are stylish but mostly comfortable. We highly recommend high-waisted, breathable leggings, an oversized hoodie or cardigan, slip-on sneakers (because who has time for laces), and keeping the bling at a minimum.
Here are Zafigo’s favourite athleisure pieces.
Pro travel tips:
- Pack protein bars and lightweight snacks
- Keep medications in carry-on
- Bring copies of important documents
- Pack empty Ziploc bags for better organisation
Travel thoughts: Long-haul flights don’t have to be a total drag. You can turn those boring and draggy hours into a self-care, content-creating, and relaxation opportunity, to name a few, with the proper preparation. Remember, it’s not about surviving the flight, it’s about thriving during it.
