I probably overthink this a little too much, but after multiple 10 to 24hour long haul flights (the “perks” of living in Australia), I’ve got the carry-on luggage packing down to a tee!
And I say it's the maker or breaker of the long haul flight because why wouldn't you have some of your necessary creature comforts to make those 24 hours bearable!
It's important to note that if you are traveling internationally and you want to take liquids, creams or gels onboard in your carry-on luggage, they need to be stored in 100ml containers. Anything that measures larger will be unfortunately discarded. So if your products don’t already measure that size, you might need to get yourself some travel size bottles for these items. They then need to fit into a transparent zip lock bag, which they provide for you at the airport or you can use your own. I store things like moisturiser, toner, face mists, lip gloss, Ventolin puffer, perfume, toothbrush and deodorant in this transparent bag and you’re usually only allowed one, unless you’re a carer and you’re carrying items for your children, as an example.
So here is the checklist I tend to follow when packing my carry-on luggage for long haul flights:
Neck pillow - I don’t know about you, but I absolutely need this otherwise I’m one of those caricature bobble heads. Aside from looking like an idiot, it's uncomfortable and non conducive to sleeping.
Water Bottle - Purchase it once you’re through customs and you’ll be able to take it onboard with you. You can never have enough water on the flight. Keep yourself hydrated to combat the jetlag too.
Moisturiser/Face Mist - Your face usually becomes quite dry because of the dry air in the cabin. You don’t want to come out feeling like your face is going to crack apart.
Face Wipes - I’ll usually take my makeup off before we disembark, using a face wipe, then use your water bottle to wash your face and apply your moisturiser etc.
Small face towel - For the above process.
Feminine Wipes- I like to keep as clean and fresh as possible!
One pair of underwear - So when you arrive in your transit destination you can freshen up or if after a 24hour leg, you’re stuck in an airport awaiting a transfer flight to an island or smaller destination. Trust me, you’ll thank me.
A change of clothes. Chances are you leave Australia in winter to arrive in Summer somewhere else. It makes it much more comfortable to have a pair of shorts and a T-shirt.
Toilet Paper - Yep...I’ve needed it before. Circa 2008, ferry hopping the Greek islands - horrific amenities and no toilet paper.
Toothbrush/toothpaste/mouthwash
Snacks i.e. muesli bar, crackers
Pharmacy kit complete with Panadol, Nuerofen, Demazin, asthma puffers and anything else you might need.
Book - I know that these days we usually download books on our devices, but having an actual book means that if you’ve run out of battery you’re not completely without entertainment!
Pen - You’ll need this to fill out your customs form onboard and for various other things.
Extra battery packs - I usually pack two in case I need extra charge, but we’ve progressed so far that you can charge on board and there are usually charging stations in the airports.
An international adaptor- You may find yourself needing to re charge and you don’t want that adaptor in your checked suitcase where you can’t get to it, so pack one with you. Multiple countries in one.
Hand sanitizer - Because that’s basically a way of life now.
Jacket and Socks - It gets cold on the plane and even though they provide a blanket, I find I still need a jacket and socks.
Compression Socks - this may be a necessity for some.
Tech items - chargers, laptops and accessories, Nintendo Switch, kindle, chargers, whatever you may use.
Vitamin C or Berocca - Vitamin C to help keep immunity high in close quarters and Berocca for an energy boost if you haven’t slept and you have transfers.
Happy Packing!
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