How to Pack for a Long-Haul Flight

Seasoned travelers will opine there is an art to packing a carry-on bag and, in order to ensure you have all the comforts you need during your flight, there is a lot to remember. This task is even more important for a long-haul flight when the next quality meal, ability to stretch and adequate hydration may be hours away. Here are a few tips to help travelers choose what to include in carry-on luggage for flights of multiple hours.

Maximize your personal item. Most airlines will allow passengers to bring one carry-on bag to stow in the overhead bin and one personal item to be tucked beneath the seat in front of you. This personal item can be a lifesaver if you’re stuck in a window seat. To avoid having to access the overhead bin and possibly disrupt other travelers, take advantage of every square inch of your personal item by using all available pockets, breaking items down into smaller units and choosing a bag that fits snugly underneath the seat while still allowing for adequate leg room.

Layer up. Any regular traveler knows the temperature inside plane cabins can vary greatly and layering clothing is the best way to be prepared. This is especially true for longer flights when temps can dip for hours at a time and the airline-provided fleece blanket just isn’t cutting it.

Bring distractions. When the seatback entertainment system isn’t enough to keep you occupied, pack a book, puzzles or load your phone with podcasts or audio books to help the time fly as fast as the plane.