Traveling. The rush of people, the memories to come and the excitement of going somewhere new. The thrill of it all is what makes it so enticing to me, yet the getting there part is what makes me wince every once in a while. Getting to my fun destination is not always a cup of tea. Security lines, delayed or cancelled flights and the long plane ride are just a few examples. I have traveled alone for a while now and I have learned the hard way of what to bring along and what to leave at home. Here is a list of my essentials to surviving your airport wait and flight:

1. Playlists of all kinds

Load up your phone or iPod with songs to help you fall asleep and stay awake. Sometimes you are going to need to pass the time and other times you need rest. Be prepared with both!

2. Heaphones

I put this high up on my list because my last trip I went wrong with this. I brought my headphones but I forgot my adapter for my new iPhone 7. What a miserable plane ride it was! Do not make the same mistake-- double check that they work!

3. Books

I always hope to sleep away the time but let me honest... sometimes I just CANNOT sleep for the life of me. Books help keep me entertained when boredom strikes.

4. Eye drops

Fellow contact wearers especially need to take this into consideration. My eyes always get dried out up there especially when I sleep or when it is a red eye flight. You will not regret this tip I promise.

5. Tissues and wet wipes

You have no idea what is on that tray table in front of you. Plus I read somewhere that those things rarely get cleaned. Tissues are also good since you never know when you will need them.

6. Pillow

Buying one of those ridiculous looking neck pillows was the greatest investment I ever made. I do not know how I survived flights before. Do yourself a favor and make your plane ride just that much more comfortable.

7. Medicine

Plane headaches are real. So is the congestion. So is plane sickness. Have a pain reliever, decongestant and antacid ready at all times.

8. Scarf

Doubles as a blanket especially if you do not have a sweater or sweatshirt on. It usually gets pretty chilly so thank me later.

9. Snacks galore

Nobody has time (or money) for that airplane food. Plus the quantity is so small and by packing your own you will be satisfied and your stomach will thank you.

10. Gum

Your ears will thank you during take off and landing. Help yourself out and get rid of that annoying ear popping.