How I Prepare for a 15-Hour Flight: My Must-Have Packing List
In just a couple of days, I’ll be heading off to India to study with a master teacher. It's a journey I’ve been eagerly anticipating, but with a 15-hour flight from Melbourne to Delhi ahead of me, preparing for the journey itself is just as important as the destination.
Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about long-haul travel, and I’ve developed a reliable system for staying comfortable, healthy, and entertained on these marathon flights.
Here’s what I’m bringing in my carry-on kit and why:
. Sanitising Wipes :This one’s non-negotiable. Before I even sit down, I grab a wipe and thoroughly clean the armrests, tray table, seatbelt buckle, and touchscreen. A friend, who’s an immunologist, once told me that these surfaces are rarely cleaned and are prime spots for picking up germs. Surprisingly, you’re as likely to catch something from these surfaces than from airborne bugs, so this quick habit gives me peace of mind. And while it’s not polite dinner party conversation, close the lid when you flush the plane toilet so you don’t inhale jet propelled airborn toilet bugs.
Noise-Cancelling Earplugs: I swear by my Loop noise-cancelling earplugs. The constant hum of the plane and general noise onboard can be exhausting, but with these, I can relax and even sleep more easily. They’re a game-changer for arriving refreshed. https://au.loopearplugs.com/
Reliable Pen: It’s surprising how many people forget this! Many international flights require you to fill out arrival or customs forms, so having a pen on hand is essential. Just make sure it’s a pressurized one—ordinary pens sometimes struggle and leak at high altitudes.
. A Travel Pillow: After road testing countless travel pillows and laughing at people walking around the airport wearing theirs like a beanbag around their neck, I’ve found my favorite: the Trtl travel pillow. It folds flat, provides excellent neck support, and is by far the most comfortable option I’ve tried. It’s worth the investment. https://au.trtltravel.com/
Compression Socks: While I don’t have circulation issues, I’ve found that wearing knee-high compression socks during long flights reduces ankle swelling and helps me feel less stiff upon arrival. They’re a simple addition that makes a big difference. I like the ambra brand. I like the black, knee high ambra brand. They’re sexy too, not. https://ambra.net.au/
Aisle Seat Preference: While it’s nice to look at clouds, it’s not nice to climb over other passangers or wait until they wake to escape from your economy seat prison. So I always book an aisle seat. It makes it so much easier to get up and stretch during the flight without disturbing others. I make a point to move around every hour—whether it’s a quick walk to the bathroom or a few calf stretches in the galley. On some flights in China, I’ve even seen flight attendants lead passengers in a mini aerobics class! (Participation not optional., because, China.) Regular movement really helps with circulation and stiffness.
Hydration Is Key: The dry cabin air can be incredibly dehydrating, so I drink water every time it’s offered (and bring my own bottle to refill). Staying hydrated helps combat fatigue and keeps my skin feeling better too.
. In-Flight Care Kit: I always pack a small kit with: Hand cream , Lip balm, Moisturiser, My toothbrush (because nothing feels better than brushing your teeth after hours in the air) and Breathe Easy Essential oil for clearing my sinuses (a lifesaver when cabin air feels stuffy). A little day spa in the sky!
Entertainment & Chargers: Long flights can draaaaag, so I always pack a good page turning book to keep me entertained. And of course, I bring my phone charger to keep my devices powered up. A dead battery is no fun when you need some in-flight distraction.
Snacks (Optional): If airline food isn’t your thing, packing a few healthy snacks can make the journey more enjoyable. Just be mindful of customs regulations at your destination.
With these essentials, I’ve found I can manage even the longest flights with ease. If you have a long-haul trip coming up, give some of these tips a try. Safe travels, and I’ll share more about my India retreat soon! 🚀🌍 Lisa x