Preparing for a Long-Haul Journey
I always put a lot of thought into packing and preparing for a long-haul flight. By planning to spend hours on an aircraft or even at an airport, you can make the journey much more comfortable. I have learned from experience.
One of the things I couldn’t survive without is my pull along mini suitcase which I can take on as hand luggage. Most airlines allow passengers to carry on baggage measuring 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. You should, however, check with the airline you are travelling with. Here are some of the essentials I pack in my hand luggage:-
Toothpaste and toothbrush: If I were going to a desert island and could only take one thing, this would be it. If you are spending hours in an airport or on board a flight, just going to brush your teeth after eating can make you feel better. Remember to take a mini toothpaste (maximum capacity of 100 millilitres).
Face wash, towel and moisturizer: It is a great feeling to wash your face during stopovers.
Earplugs, sleeping mask, socks and fleece: Flights can be uncomfortable and with over 200 people on board, there will be noise, babies crying and passengers talking – that is why I take earplugs. On most flights I get cold because of the air conditioning so I always take a pair of socks and a fleece. However, on every Iberia aircraft I have travelled on I melt with the heat so it is also a good idea to wear layers so you can strip down if necessary. Finally, the sleeping mask just in case the person beside me has the light on.
Extra change of clothes: I always take an extra change of clothes just in case my suitcase goes missing. If you are travelling from winter to summer or vice versa, perhaps you could take something suitable to change into at the airport when you arrive.
Oh and don’t forget to wear flight socks or you won’t be able to fit your feet in your shoes after the journey.
