Flying can be an uncomfortable experience for passengers cooped up inside an airplane, especially on a longer flight. While airlines try to make it a more pleasurable experience by serving meals and screening movies, travelers need to prepare by packing a carry-on to fit their needs.
Prepare for lost luggage. Keep a change of clothes and basic hygiene items such as a travel-size toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant in your carry-on in case you make it to your destination before your bags do.
Take along any medications and documents instead of packing them in your luggage. Keep your passport and itinerary with you so you can get through security. Carry eyeglasses or contact lenses. Any delays and missed connections can prevent you from getting necessary medical items if you pack them in your checked luggage.
Stay comfortable on the plane and pack items that will keep you warm and prevent body aches. Bring along a sweater or a blanket. An inflatable pillow acts as a head rest to prevent a stiff neck and can be deflated after the flight to take up minimal room in your carry-on bag.
Isolate your senses from your surroundings so you can sleep. Take along ear plugs to drown out sounds and voices and an eye mask to block out light.
Combat hunger and pack healthy snacks in your bag. Dried fruit, granola and individual boxes of cereal are small enough to fit in a carry-on. Bottled water helps to combat dehydration. Purchase liquids after passing through airport security.
Fight the boredom of being confined on an airplane. Bring books or an eReader. Prior to the trip, download favorite songs to your MP3 player and load a laptop prior with movies, games or television shows. Bring along your own headphones or ear buds so you don't disturb other passengers and won't have to pay for airline supplied devices.
