GRANT AND MARISA

Need some carry-on item recommendations for your next flight?

Today, we’re diving into our top 10 must-have items for long-haul travel. These essentials have made our travel experiences smoother, more comfortable, and even enjoyable. Let’s get started!

1. Backpack

The most essential of carry-on items is a backpack. We’re firmly team backpack over roller carry-ons for many reasons. Our favorite is from a company called Brevite. These backpacks are compact, lightweight, and incredibly functional with features like side zippers for easy access and a dedicated passport pocket for security. Grant also has the camera version, which is slightly larger and perfect for carrying camera gear.

2. Sleep Mask

A sleep mask can be a game-changer for getting some shut-eye on a flight. We swear by the Trtl sleep mask, which is super padded and customizable to fit different face shapes. It blocks out light completely, ensuring you get the rest you need.

3. Noise-Canceling Headphones

Noise-canceling headphones are a must to drown out the constant hum of the airplane. We love the Sony noise-canceling earbuds for their compact size and excellent sound quality. They’re perfect for long flights, and a handy tip is to charge them while you’re eating to ensure they last through the journey.

4. Travel Pillow or Blanket

Depending on your preference, a travel pillow or a compact blanket can make a big difference in comfort. Marisa prefers the Trtl mini wrap blanket for its warmth and sensory comfort. Grant likes the Trtl travel pillow, which supports the neck without the bulk of traditional pillows.

5. Change of Clothes

Always pack a change of clothes, including a t-shirt, underwear, and socks. It’s refreshing to change into clean clothes during or after a long flight. The side pocket of our Brevite backpacks makes accessing these items easy, even in cramped airplane bathrooms.

6. In-Flight Toiletry Bag

We call this our “plane bag.” It’s a reusable Ziploc bag filled with essentials like melatonin, Colgate Wisps (disposable toothbrushes), mini deodorant, lip balm, and hand lotion. These items help us feel fresh and clean throughout the flight.

7. Water Bottle

A water bottle is crucial for staying hydrated. We prefer the Yeti plastic water bottles for their durability and lighter weight compared to metal ones. Adding a Liquid IV hydration multiplier to the water can also help combat jet lag and dehydration.

8. Cord Organizer

Keeping electronic cords and chargers organized is essential. We use a compact cord organizer to store phone chargers, a portable battery, and a universal USB charger. It helps keep everything neat and easily accessible.

9. Passport Protector

Protecting your passport is vital during international travel. A sturdy passport protector keeps your most important document safe from damage and easy to access. It also usually includes slots for boarding passes and other travel documents, making it a convenient all-in-one travel essential.

10. Folio for Printed Documents

Having a folio for printed documents such as flight itineraries, hotel reservations, and travel insurance can save you a lot of hassle. A well-organized folio ensures all your important papers are in one place, easily accessible, and protected from getting crumpled or lost.

Conclusion

These are our top 10 must-have items for long-haul travel. They’ve made our journeys more comfortable, organized, and stress-free. Do you have any travel essentials that you can’t live without? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to watch our video for a more detailed look at each item! Happy travels!

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