What to Bring on an International Flight
Traveling internationally opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to immerse yourself in diverse cultures, experience breathtaking landscapes, and create lifelong memories. While traveling internationally can be an exciting and memorable experience, you first must survive a long-haul flight on your way to your destination. Spending that many hours on an airplane can be downright uncomfortable and exhausting, especially for those of us travelers who are over the age of 50 or for those of us who are not lucky enough to book a first-class ticket. Proper preparation is key to ensuring a smooth journey that will leave you well rested, as well as fresh and ready to explore your new destination upon your arrival. This post is one you will want to save for all of your upcoming travels so you can know exactly what to bring on an international flight.
If you love to travel, I recommend visiting these related posts:
- Best Cruise Lines for Older Adults and Couples
- Best Travel Bags and Suitcases for Women
- Complete Packing List of Travel Toiletries
What to Bring on an International Flight
When packing for an international flight, there are some essential items that you won’t want to forget at home. Even if you’re an old pro at flying across the world, this list may have a few things you haven’t considered that will make your future international plane rides easier.
P.S. While packing the right things can help make your trip go off without a hitch, it is also wise to familiarize oneself with airline policies, including baggage allowances and any specific regulations on liquids or electronics. Every airline has different policies, so make sure to do your homework.
#1 Choose the Best Checked Bag, Carryon Bag, and Travel Backpack or Tote
Having the perfect piece(s) of luggage can make or break your trip. I went into depth discussing the best travel bags and suitcases in this post. If you don’t have time to read the other post, below are my picks for the best-checked bag, carry-on bag, travel backpack, and travel tote.
#2 Keep Travel Documents and Money Organized and Safe
Essential travel documents such as passports, visas, and printed itineraries should be kept easily accessible and secure. Keeping your travel documents organized and easily accessible is crucial for international flights as it ensures a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. Having your passport, visa, boarding passes, and other necessary documents readily available not only expedites the check-in and security processes but also provides peace of mind, reducing the risk of misplaced or forgotten items that could potentially disrupt your travel plans.
Keeping your important items in the outside pocket of a backpack or in a wallet can make you an easy target for pickpockets, especially when you are trying to get some sleep. Picking up an organizer like one of those below allows you to keep your documents and money organized and safely stored close to your body. One of them can go around your waist, under or over your clothes, one goes around your neck, and the third attaches to your bra strap (note: this one does not fit a passport).
#3 Choose a Great Seat
While this isn’t something you can pack, it’s something that you need to remember to do when planning an international flight. Whether you love to sit by the window so you can look out as the flight progresses or you like sitting in an exit row to gain some additional legroom, consider the things that are important to you when choosing a seat. I think sitting a few rows away from the restroom is always a smart choice for a long-haul flight, especially if you like to do a skincare routine, spruce up as you approach your destination, or if you tend to use the bathroom often.
If finances or your airline points allow for an upgrade to first or business class, this is, of course, a no-brainer. However, if you must travel economy, all hope is not lost, as it is still possible to have a comfortable travel experience.
#4 Don’t Forget Entertainment
Spending hours upon hours on an airplane can get very boring, so bringing entertainment is a must. I find it a perfect opportunity to sink into a new book, so consider bringing a paperback or a reading device like a Kindle. I just shared a list of recommendations for great reads here. If reading isn’t your cup of tea, you could use the time to listen to a podcast or audiobook, work a crossword or sudoku, write in your journal, or utilize this hands-free phone mount to catch a new movie or binge a television series. You’ll also want to bring a portable power bank to keep your phone battery topped off.
#5 Comfort Items Are a Must
To stay comfortable during a long flight, it is essential to dress in loose, breathable clothing and wear layers so you can easily adjust to varying temperatures. Bringing a travel pillow, blanket, and eye mask can help promote restful sleep while staying hydrated, and moving around periodically can help prevent muscle stiffness. Additionally, using noise-canceling headphones can help you to get good rest, especially if you have a hard time tuning out noises from other travelers. Compression socks are a must, as they can help promote circulation and reduce swelling, fatigue, and soreness in your legs.
#6 Bring Your Must-Have Toiletries
There are some toiletries and hygiene items that you won’t want to go without, especially for that many hours. I talk about toiletries I always bring with me in this post, but in my amenity kit for international flights, I make sure to bring:
- A travel toothbrush – I like these disposable ones that don’t require any water
- Peppermint chewing gum
- Chapstick
- Antibacterial Wipes
- Eye Drops
- Facial Cleansing Wipes
- Pain Reliever
- Deodorant
- Travel Sized Hair Brush
- Daily Medications in a pill organizer
One quick idea I thought I would shareā¦ a few years ago I bought a FlipBelt. Itās a belt for runners but I found it very useful for traveling. It fits close to the body and keeps my passport, cash, iPhone etc. close at had and even concealed, depending on what I am wearing. Itās great for when I am exploring new destinations and am unfamiliar with towns and neighborhoods, subways or other transportation. My important items are concealed close to my body, just incase thereās a purse snatcher eyeing the obvious tourist. š
I love the idea of that. We canāt be too careful when traveling.
We always pack a kitchen trash bag for laundry, wet things. We also put paper copies of our itinerary, hotel info, & passport into the top of every bag – including carry-on. So helpful. Also, take pics of each bag so you have that if they are lost.
Great idea!
Katrina, are you not worried about identity theft from your passport details? Just curious?
What great advice Jennifer. I had no idea how to prepare for an international flight anymore.
While I do go on cruises leavivng out of the Miami, Ft. Lauderdale and Tampa areas, I’ve not flown overseas since 1996. My how times have changed.
Passport issued and in hand:
I am booked for international plane travel in November of this year (Cabo in Mexico) and September of next year to Rome and back home from Athens (wonderful 16 day cruise from Civitavecchia via Da Vinci. Itin is fabulous. Sicily, Spain, Egypt, Israel, Turkey and winding up in Athens with a post cruise 2 day exploration of the Athens historical sites.
I needed these suggestions but seems as though we are packing many unnecessary items. Electronic and phone accessories, check; those noise canceling headphones, check; compusory compresson socks, check; po; rtable charger, check; eye blackout mask, check; deoderant, check; ruana for excess cold air, check; neck roll for snoozing, check; toothbrush, check; refresh makeup (I really couldn’t care less but carry hydrating creams and lip balms, check; hand cream, check; facial rehydrating spray, check. In my case (pardon the pun but I have a small train case) of mandatory items such all the above with creams, hygiene products, 2 days of meds and supplements, change of underwear, t-shirt, swimsuit, comfy pair of foldable shoes, and anything else (in 2 day supply) that will fit into this bag are all in my packing list. That carry-on train case (Brics Firenze Tuscan Train Case) saved me from a disaster on 1 cruise when the cruiseline lost my luggage. Without this over the shoulder traincase, this cruise would have been even more miserable than it was without luggage for the entire 7 days. This case holds more than one could possibly imagine in a travel friendly (read – not counted as a carryon but a purse) bag.
Anything else you or others can recommend, other than those items which are easily replaced at low costs in foreign markets, please let me know ok? I am getting excited as the days count down.
Love the blog and please continue these valuable hints and recommendations ok?
I have a very similar bag. It’s a dinosaur to be sure but I could live out of it’s contents for 10 days and still call it a “purse”.
Jennifer, check out the Brics Firenze Train Case ok? It IS pricey but often Brics has sale prices and a multitude of discount coupons are available on the web. They have outstanding warranties on their luggage products. I’ve had mine for 5 years. Easy to clean up scuffs and marks on all products with that major brand “magic eraser.” I have a complete set from Brics (all spinners) that sure has taken a licking and “keeps on ticking.” Guaranteed quality. So many packing pockets. I carry my snorkeling gear and on their 30″ check in spinners, have room for at least 2 weeks of shoes, clothing, books, 2 formals as well as any and all other clothing I wish to take on extended vacations. Yes, one needs to check the 30″ but the styles and available colors are classic (and not that it makes a difference, but all the Kardashians use the brand) can, at times, be found on TMaxx or Marshalls for a steal, and guaranteed will withstand at least 20 years+ of travel abuse and use. Cheers!
Wow, those sound amazing! Iāll check into them.
We are headed to Italy in October for 3 weeks! I agree with you carry electronic as well as paper copies of documents. A while back a major airline we were flying had a major computer fail and only those who were carrying paper tickets were allowed to board. Thank goodness I always print out all our tickets. When it comes to choosing seats my husband and I both prefer aisle seats for easy access to restrooms and the ability to walk around.
Wow, that’s a snafu I’d like to be prepared for too. I like having both, just in case.
When I went abroad for the first time alone at the age of 18, I carried 4 things: my wallet, passport, a really big paperback, and gum. A couple of years later, I think I added a Walkman.
Now I carry the 100 things on your list. Only 80 when it’s domestic.
Jennifer,
That Dagne Dover backpack is lovely . It is spendy but if it works, great !
Do you have personal experience with it and is it worth the $$$ ?
I do not but I know the brand is very popular.
Thanks for these tips. Heading to British Isles later this summer for a couple weeks and am determined to do carryon only š¤. Your blog and tips are good inspiration. Thanks for the suggestions.
We usually go abroad for 6 weeks at a time in the fall and spring ( not this fall as weāve just moved to a new state and need to settle in), recently back from England and Ireland. One tip Iāll share for long international flights: pack everything you think youāll want on the plane (earplugs, sleep mask, meds, gum, travel toothbrush, charging cord, etc) in a small colorful zip bag or Ziplock (I use a very small turquoise packing cube so itās easily visible) to tuck in the seat pocket. You wonāt have to keep fishing around in your purse or tote. Especially useful if you are in a exit row seat (good news = more leg room, bad news = no storage) where everything has to be stowed above.
That’s a great tip, thanks Eizabeth.
I loved this post. Great ideas. Next trip will be a cruise of the Greek Islands and Istanbul.
How fun!!
Great post Jennifer! I would like to add for international flights to carry your medications if you check your bag and to wear a sports or non underwire bra for more comfort.
Great advice about the medications. Mine are always in my handheld bag.
I was told you need to carry medication in the original containers – not distilled into pill boxes. Apparently some countries will have an issue with unidentified medication. Has anyone experienced this?
I carry both. One week in the pill box for convienie
Great list, Jennifer. Several relatives and I are in the early stages of planning a trip to France in late spring 2024. I havenāt been to Europe and Iām very excited. I have been to Australia and, yes, itās a long flight – 13.5 hours from LAX.
France is fabulous. Lucky you.
Very helpful information. Thanks. Leaving in September for a total of 7 weeks to U.K., France and Portugal. First international trip since before Covid so making it count!
Carole
Have fun!
We will be on our way to The Bahamas in the fall. Love my Cruising, so we are supper excited.
Thanks for the travel tips, we are going to Australia and New Zealand in January. I always freeze on planes, so the coverups are perfect.
Always!! Layers are so important.
Personally, I like paper copies of my flights and itinerary. I find it easier than searching my phone and if it should die, I still have all info close at hand.
After buying Sony noise cancelling headphones and flying with themā¦wowā¦such a difference. You donāt realize just how loud aircraft are until you cancel that noise out.
I book Economy Plus for the extra legroom when on a long flight. Itās only a little bit more and worth every Penny.
I always carry some currency for those little purchases from vendors and for tips.
My husband swears by his noise cancelling headphones. I need to get some.
Heading for a 22 day Mediterranean cruise in September w extra 3 days in Lisbon at the beginning and a week in Venice at the end. I so want to do only carry on! I hate lugging (or losing) a big bag! All your tips will hopefully sink in and pay off!
Have fun! What an amazing trip.
My husband and I are going to the UK next June to go sightseeing for a few days before taking the Queen Mary 2 to New York then flying home to Dayton. I’m really looking forward to the trip since it will be the fifth anniversary of him proposing to me on our crossing in 2019.
That’s so romantic! Have fun
Headed to Italy in October with my husband. Thank you for this helpful post-just ordered a passport/card carrier for both of us.
We have a son, daughter-in-law and 2 grandkids that have lived in Zurich, Switzerland for the last 7 years. We have made many trips over the years to visit and enjoy our side trips all over Europe!
This year will be a busy travel year. Covid shut down several trips. We will fly in to Amsterdam and experience the Rhine River Getaway. I’ve been reading your posts on Pinterest. Then it’s a New England cruise that was also cancelled. In December we will travel to the Holy Land. I have been 1 time but my husband is going with this time. I love your blogs. Thank you for sharing such great information.
Have a fabulous time. They sound like fun!
Great post and perfect timing for me, Jennifer. Heading to 3 Scandinavian countries (where it will hopefully be cooler!!) in 3 weeks. Always good to be reminded of essentials and pick up some new tips as well.
Jennifer,
Timely post for me, we are leaving soon for a Viking River Cruise. My husband and I both purchased comfy cargo pants to wear on the airplane. I keep my passport, Global Entry Pass zipped up in my pants pocket with easy access very safe.
Have a great trip
Yes! Thank you for this post! Iām heading to Italy for three weeks! This is my first time to Europe! Very excited and taking 10 friends with me!!
That sounds so fabulous Cathy!! Have a fabulous trip.
Hello Jennifer – I love your blog! This post is really helpful as we are leaving for Italy in October and I will have lots of time to get organized using your tips. Thanks!
Have a great time. I love Italy!
Thanks for the tips!
Heading to Turks and Caicos!!
Fabulous! Have fun.
Jennifer we live in an electronic age, lol. Documents should be on your phone. Some airlines (e.g., Alaska) are pushing customers to get rid of paper. And many places are like the US but more so, so nobody carries currency.
We sure do. Phones get lost all the time too so I prefer multiple copies of important documents. Some of us are more old school and like to have some cash with us. I know my husband always does.
Kind of an unusual story, but my Colorado daughter and her husband had a credit card snafu traveling this May. When using their card waiting for a connecting flight to Europe at the Charlotte Airport , a bartender mixed up their card with someone who was heading to Mexico (no way to retrieve; quickly cancelled). Departed with a debit card only, and minimal cash; they did adapt and enjoy the ten-day trip. I always bring two different cards and several hundred dollars US cash. Makes you think!
Great advice!!
We are going to Israel in February.
How fabulous. Iāve never been.
Excellent tips Jennifer, especially for first time travellers. Recently returned from long haul international holiday – it took 40 hours, 4 flights – one of which was 13hrs straight to get to Israel from Australia. When travelling, I always keep my passport and credit cards and some cash in my very light weight crossbody pouch, both on the flight and when out and about. The pick pockets are shocking in Europe. Like you, I take paper copies of everything – a mobile phone is stolen every 8 minutes in London alone. Unlike most people, I always take a wad of cash (along with credit cards). Keeps my spending under control and avoids nasty conversion rates.
Those are great points! Thanks for sharing them Susan.
Jennifer, You should visit Israel – this year was my second visit and am now planning my third. The food is fantastic and I found much nicer than both France and Italy (the food was mediocre in Rome).
Our family lives literally all over the world. We will be going to Denmark and Sweden for a family event in October with a brief extension trip to Estonia and Latvia. Then at Christmas, we will be making our annual trip to Australia where our daughter, son-in-law and 3 grand babies live. It will be my 13th trip down under and believe it or not, I have the 24 hour plus flight routine down to a manageable process. Seeing those children makes it all worthwhile.
That is a very long flight but so worth it. Your trips sound exciting!
Hi Jennifer – just returned yesterday from 2 weeks in Belgium, France & Spain and your recommendations are spot on, especially the part about seat choice! Also avoid checking bags if possible, makes things so much easier, though I got tired of wearing the same clothes – haha. I love your blog and tips. Keep them coming!
Thanks, Julie