15 Must-Have Travel Accessories for Long Flights

Whether it’s your first flight or your fiftieth, long-haul journeys can be grueling. But with the right travel accessories, your travel days can become smoother, more comfortable, and even enjoyable.

As a travel blogger and writer who has been crisscrossing the globe for the past decade, I’ve learned that packing the best travel essentials can make a huge difference, especially on international flights or a 12-hour flight halfway around the world.

In this guide, I’ve rounded up the 15 must-have travel accessories for long flights. From practical items that improve your travel experience to comfort boosters that help with better sleep, these carry-on essentials are a great way to travel smarter on your next trip.

Let’s get into the top picks every savvy traveler should have when flying long distances.

1. Noise-Canceling Headphones: Your Escape From Background Noise

Few things ruin a long-haul flight like crying babies or loud passengers. The best way to block out background noise is by using a pair of noise-canceling headphones. These are a game changer for watching movies, listening to music, or just finding peace during your flight.

Many models now feature Bluetooth connectivity, so you don’t need to fuss with cords. Over-ear styles are ideal for long periods of wear and help you zone out, relax, or sleep. For travel days and long trips, these are one of the must-have travel accessories.

Pro Tip: Pair them with a good playlist or white noise app to beat jet lag and help reset your internal clock during time changes.

2. Compression Socks: Boost Circulation on Long Flights

Compression socks aren’t just for athletes or seniors—they’re essential for long flights. Sitting for hours can cause swelling or even increase the risk of blood clots. These socks help improve blood flow, reduce leg fatigue, and prevent swollen ankles on long-haul flights.

They take up hardly much room in your bag and are a good idea for anyone embarking on international travel, long road trips, or day trips with extended sitting.

Bonus: They’re available in stylish designs now, so no need to sacrifice fashion for function!

3. Travel Pillow: Neck Support for Better Sleep

A neck pillow is a true essential travel accessory if you want better sleep during a long journey. The best ones offer ergonomic neck support, keep your head from bobbing, and prevent the dreaded post-nap kink.

From memory foam to inflatable options, today’s travel gear includes pillows designed for minimal extra weight and easy access in your personal item or carry-on luggage.

Travel blogger tip: Go for a design that attaches to your bag so it doesn’t hog space.

4. Portable Charger or Power Bank: Stay Charged Midair

Nothing is worse than having your phone die mid-flight. A portable charger (also called a power bank) is a must-have travel accessory, especially if your aircraft lacks USB ports.

Look for a high-capacity model that can charge multiple devices and supports USB ports for simultaneous charging. It’s especially useful if you’re using your phone for in-flight entertainment, travel planning, or keeping track of travel documents.

Great deal alert: Some brands offer extra chargers bundled with their portable charger, which is a great addition for your next trip.

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5. Eye Mask: Block Light for Better Sleep

Even if you’re in the middle seat next to someone binge-watching movies, an eye mask can help you shut out the world. It’s one of the best travel accessories for creating a dark, calming space and getting some rest.

Look for a contoured design that won’t press on your eyelids. Paired with earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, this combo helps you sleep through long-haul flights and arrive refreshed.

Flight attendants swear by them, and they take up virtually no space in your carry-on essentials.

6. Reusable Water Bottle or Collapsible Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is crucial during long flights. The cabin air can be extremely drying, and flight attendants may not come around as often as you’d like.

Bringing your own water bottle—especially a collapsible water bottle—ensures you’ll drink more. Fill it after you get through airport security, and keep sipping throughout the flight. This is an easy way to combat dry skin, fatigue, and jet lag.

It’s also a great way to cut down on single-use plastics.

7. Passport Holder: Keep Important Documents Safe

One of the most important things to keep track of during international travel is your passport. A passport holder with slots for credit cards, SIM cards, and boarding passes keeps everything organized.

Choose one that offers RFID protection to guard against electronic theft and fits easily into your small wallet or personal item. It’s a smart way to have all your important documents in one place, giving you peace of mind.

8. Travel Blanket: Lightweight Warmth Midair

Airplane cabins can get chilly, especially during 12-hour flights. A compact travel blanket made of fleece or merino wool offers warmth without adding extra weight to your carry-on luggage.

Some options even fold into a pillow or come with a strap that connects to your durable suitcase. On long trips, this accessory turns your seat into a cozy retreat.

9. Packing Cubes: Organize Your Bag Like a Pro

If your suitcase looks like it exploded after one outfit change, packing cubes are for you. They streamline your packing list, compress clothing, and make it easy to grab what you need without disturbing everything else.

For international flights, it’s great to pack a cube with carry-on essentials in case your checked bag gets delayed. Also useful for day trips and organizing beauty products, camera equipment, or practical gear.

10. Lip Balm & Hand Cream: Fight Cabin Air Dryness

The recycled air on planes dries out your skin faster than you think. A small tube of lip balm and hand cream made with ingredients like hyaluronic acid is key to avoiding dry skin.

These must-have travel accessories are TSA-friendly, lightweight, and easy to stash in your item. Reapply throughout the flight for glowing skin on arrival—especially if you’re heading straight to a hotel room or new destinations.

11. Universal Adapter (Like the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter)

If you’re heading overseas, a universal adapter is one of those essential travel accessories you can’t leave behind. The Epicka Universal Travel Adapter is a great option because it works in over 150 countries and features multiple USB ports.

It’s an easy way to charge all your devices, no matter where your next trip takes you. Some also include surge protection and built-in fuses, adding another layer of safety to your travel experience.

12. First Aid Kit: A Small Kit for Big Peace of Mind

Whether it’s a paper cut, headache, or upset stomach, a compact first aid kit is a good idea on long-haul flights and long road trips. Pack a small pouch with essentials like:

• Band-aids
• Pain relievers
• Antacids
• Antibacterial wipes
• Motion sickness tablets

Toss it into your carry-on luggage or travel shoe bag for easy access.

13. Portable Door Locks: Extra Hotel Security

You never know when you’ll end up in a sketchy hotel room. A portable door lock is an underrated safety accessory for solo travelers or those staying in hostels.

It’s lightweight and compact, and adds an extra layer of protection against intrusions. One of those travel products that doesn’t seem essential—until it really is.

14. Apple AirTags or GPS Trackers: Never Lose Your Bags

Luggage delays and theft are sadly common horror stories on international travel. An Apple AirTag or similar GPS tracker is a great addition to your durable suitcase or carry-on luggage.

Just drop one in your bag and track it from your phone. It’s a great way to stay ahead of the airline and keep tabs on your gear.

15. Travel Shoe Bag or Shoe Wallet

Shoes can get messy, and they can mess up the rest of your clothing. A travel shoe bag is one of those must-have travel accessories that keeps things clean, tidy, and odor-free.

Some models come with compartments for socks or a shoe wallet for small valuables. These bags are also great for separating dirty laundry from your clean items on the way back.

Final Thoughts: Upgrade Your Long Flight With the Best Travel Accessories

Flying long distances doesn’t have to be miserable. With the best travel accessories packed smartly into your carry-on luggage, you’ll breeze through even the longest international flights.

Whether it’s compression socks to improve circulation, a portable charger to keep devices going, or a neck pillow for better sleep, each item on this list is an essential travel accessory. These are not just nice-to-haves—they’re items that make a huge difference in your travel experience.

So the next time you’re packing for a long-haul flight, come back to this list and make sure you’re fully prepped for your next trip. Safe travels and happy exploring!