Travel Essentials
My Top Travel Essentials for Long-Haul Flights
As Marketing Director for The Hotel Guru, I spend a lot of time in the air, hopping between hotels, scouting out the best places to stay, and writing about them. And after years of perfecting my packing routine, I’ve nailed down the travel essentials that I won’t board a flight without. It’s a bit of a mixed bag—some practical, some indulgent—but they all make long-haul travel that little bit easier.
1. Jet Candy
Jet lag is the enemy of the frequent flyer, and I swear by Jet Candy—a homeopathic remedy that helps with time zone transitions. It’s small, natural, and effective, meaning I arrive feeling fresh rather than foggy.
2. Spacemasks
For those restless in-flight naps, Spacemasks are a game-changer. These self-heating eye masks ease tension, block out light, and transport you to another level of relaxation—ideal when you’re trying to grab a bit of sleep at 35,000 feet.
3. Aesop Ginger Flight Therapy
A tiny roll-on that works wonders when you’re feeling a little groggy mid-flight. The ginger, lavender, and geranium blend is refreshing, calming, and helps with nausea and travel fatigue.
4. A Silk Eye Mask & Cashmere Socks
Nothing says ‘in-flight comfort’ like silk and cashmere. A slip silk eye mask is non-irritating and blocks out the world, while cashmere socks keep your feet cosy and prevent that awful dry-air chill.
5. 100 Acres Pillow Mist
A spritz of this beautifully scented pillow mist (packed with lavender, rosemary, and peppermint) helps create a sense of calm—perfect if you struggle to sleep on planes. I also use it in hotel rooms to make them feel a little more like home.
6. A Refillable Water Bottle
Flights are incredibly dehydrating, so I always carry a lightweight, insulated water bottle. I fill it up before boarding to avoid those tiny plastic cups and make sure I’m drinking enough throughout the flight.
7. Byredo Hand Cream & Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask
Cabin air wreaks havoc on your skin. Byredo’s Hand Cream is a treat for dry hands (and smells divine), while Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask is an in-flight hydration hero that keeps my skin from looking dull and tired when I land.
8. A Good Book & Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Essential for zoning out. A well-chosen book helps pass the hours, and noise-cancelling headphones mean I can actually enjoy my audiobook or playlist without the hum of the engines (or the chatter of fellow passengers).
9. A Cashmere Wrap
Doubles as a blanket, scarf, or extra layer when the plane’s temperature drops. A versatile, lightweight wrap is always in my carry-on.
These are my must-haves for surviving long-haul travel with a little comfort and style. What’s in your hand luggage? Let me know your go-to travel essentials!
10. Micheline Arcier
I never travel without Harmonie Aromatherapie Dream Drops from Micheline Arcier (£19). If you’re having trouble sleeping or relaxing put a few drops onto pulse points and chest, inhale deeply and drift off into a magical slumber.
Use LULULOVESMA for a 15% discount on the whole range.
