As a student about to head off on a 15-plus hour plane ride to Italy this week, I thought I would give a few tips on what to bring with you on your next flight. They are:
Books and Magazines
I always like to bring something silly and fun to read (magazines are the best!), because they don’t require as much energy and thought as other books. If you have a Kindle or other electronic reader, definitely bring that too! Lots of planes these days have screens on the seats for movies and TV, but don’t overlook your reading material!
Headphones
Planes will provide headphones for you, but don’t forget your own! They will be clean and comfortable, and they will allow you to enjoy the music/TV/movies that may be provided for you on the flight. This is a really easy thing to forget that will be dearly missed if you do.
Toiletries
No one likes that groggy, gross feeling you usually get after being on a plane all night. My solution: a toiletry bag filled with toothpaste, toothbrush, face soap or wipes, lotion, makeup, and anything else that will make you feel clean and refreshed. You never know who you are going to run into, or what is going to happen on your way off the jetway, out of the airport, and into your next adventure.
www.getoffmyinternets.net
Pillow
Now, since you will be spending over 12 hours in this little seat, you’ll have to try to make it comfortable--because it’s your bed for the night. The most important factor in your comfort for your makeshift bed is your pillow, of course! So pop on those headphones, turn on some music, pull on your sweatshirt, and snuggle into your pillow for some much needed shut-eye.
wwwf.imperial.ac.uk
Comfy Clothes
It is crucial that you are comfortable, and prepared for any temperature on an airplane. The hardest part about dressing for the trip is that you might be wearing the things that you can’t fit into your luggage (not speaking from experience, or anything), so hopefully it can be modified a little with a sweatshirt, or a pair of sippers slipped into your carry-on bag.
Food, Food, and Lots of it
Airplane food… Need I say more?
But, seriously, try to bring snacks from home if possible, and if not, at least grab a couple of things from the airport. Don’t forget to eat a meal before getting on the plane, and maybe bring a water or soda, so you don’t have to stay hydrated on the little cup of liquid provided by the flight attendants.
washu.spoonuniversity.com
A Friend (If Possible!)
This one may not be a luxury for all, but I am lucky enough to be traveling with a good friend for the whole trip. So if it’s a possibility for you, by all means try to get that friend on your plane, and maybe even in the seat next to you. It will make this long journey go by in the blink of an eye.
www.friendshipdaywishesquotesz.com
I hope I covered all of the bases. And don’t forget your tickets and a passport if needed! Good luck on your next flight!
