I consider myself a frequent flyer. This year alone, I've already been to Mexico twice, L.A., Florida, Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Boston, and just last week, I got back from a trip to Tokyo. I've zipped and unzipped my black Away Bigger Carry-On so many times that it remained a fixture on my living room floor all summer with too little time between trips for me to bother putting it away. I've been to the airport so frequently over the past few months that I've joked about renting out a room next to JFK. Recently, I became the proud holder of United's Premier Gold status.
Suffice it to say, I've gotten my airport outfits and in-flight routine down to science at this point. Of course, I'll tweak which essentials to bring with me based on how long my travel day will be and whether I'll have to eat or sleep on board. I've figured out a few things that can separate good flight from a bad one and make or break my jet lag, skin, digestion, and… Well, you get the picture. Ahead, discover the 26 travel essentials I won't board another long-haul international flight without, from the weighted eye mask that has me out like a light to the face mist that helps me avoid post-flight breakouts.
Once I started using this weighted eye mask—both at home and while traveling—it was game over. I've never experienced deeper and more long-lasting sleep in my life.
The noise cancellation on these is a little too good.
I usually break out after a long flight, but spritzing this every few hours helped keep any breakouts at bay.
Small but necessary.
I have no qualms about using a sheet mask on a flight.
My favorite sweats brand makes the cutest—and comfiest—hoodies out there that are perfect for battling the plane AC. After this last long-haul flight, I'll be opting for a zip-up so it's easier to take off without undoing all those headphone cords when watching a movie.
These pants are soft and lighter than air, and they don't entirely look like pajamas despite feeling like it.
The first thing I do on flights longer than a few hours is take my shoes off for better circulation. These Vince cashmere socks are the best things to put on to stay warm.
For before, during, and after flying.
I don't trust my phone's front camera or those tiny bathrooms to get the job done when I'm doing my in-flight skincare routine. It's also useful for doing makeup at your hotel or Airbnb.
Wearing sunscreen when flying is a nonnegotiable because the sun is far more intense at 30,000 feet. I'm truly obsessed with this viral tube from Korea's Beauty of Joseon.
For any last touch-ups before landing.
It's important to keep your skin hydrated.
IYKYK.
Because fishing around in a sea of tangled cords in my tote bag just isn't it.
The tube version of this lip balm is better for traveling since you don't have to use your hands to dispense it.
I hate wearing jewelry because my fingers always swell up, and too many pieces get uncomfortable. This chic carrying case keeps everything organized.
An easy, feel-good read is just what the doctor ordered, especially during takeoff and landing when you can't use a laptop or tablet.
I swear by these electrolyte packets to stay hydrated.
Ear plugs that are made to look like jewelry—genius.
Stepping off a 14-hour flight with a perfect blowout is one of those little luxuries that I never knew I needed to experience.
Not only does this hand cream smell amazing, but the texture is also ultra rich.
I love the scent of this deodorant.
For some reason, my digestion always gets messed up when I travel, so I always keep plenty of magnesium supplements on hand.
These packets are apparently the best form of vitamin C out there.
Everything gets dried out on a long flight, so hydration is key for hands, skin, and eyes too.
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.