When you have a long day of traveling ahead, it makes sense to look for more ways to be more comfortable on your flight. There have been a few flights that I’ve been ill-prepared for and having anything on hand to keep you comfortable is better than nothing. I’ve listed some of my travel tips that I use to stay comfortable, as well as some accessories I have for those especially long travel days. Here are my best 11 tips for planning more comfortable air travel:

How to Have a More Comfortable Travel Day

Pick Your Seat(s) in Advance

I’m someone who can take a nap anywhere so seating has never bothered me, but there are times when I do plan on working or creating content (recording the window) and I want a little bit more control of where I am sitting. I can’t take a long time lapses from an airplane window if I’m not even in a window-side seat, booking my seat in advance will allow me to have that information beforehand.

Bring Headphones for the Noise

Headphones are a lifesaver! Not every passenger reacts to air travel lightly so wearing a pair of headphones will allow you to have a more relaxing flight overall. Although noise-canceling headphones may be a bit better quality, I appreciated any pair of headphones or even ear plugs when I’m on an airplane with other frustrated passengers.

Plan Activities to Pass Time

If the flight is four hours, do you have four hours of activities? If the flight is even longer, do you mind just sitting there and doing nothing? One of the biggest factors on the number of activities I bring is how long the flight time is. I always have a book in my backpack, but if I do finish it then having off-line movies and copies of digital books on my phone.

Use a Sleeping Mask While You Sleep

An eye mask is another great addition to your bag on travel days. There are multiple benefits to using an eye mask and some of them include being able to block out the light around you, cover your eyes from distractions, and help your eyes retain moisture while you nap.

A Charged Phone + An External Battery

I’ve suggested this before, but carrying around an external battery has saved my life more times than I can count. There are plenty of types out there, but as long as we have one on hand and are able to charge up your device once more over then that’s all the security you need.

Bring Snacks to Fill Up On

I’m a big snacker so if the flight is multiple hours I’m gonna make sure that I have snacks like peanuts, chips, granola bars and anything else that is in packaging that I could put in a backpack. Of course, they always offer snacks on flights, but those always taste the best so loading your favorite snacks allows you to have that extra bit of comfort while you fly.

Get TSA PreCheck to Save Time

Does the uncertainty of how long it may take to get through the airport give you anxiety? Let’s remove that uncertainty by getting TSA pre-check and the peace of mind that you will definitely be funneled through to the front of the line as you go through the airport. I’m a big believer in pre-purchasing the things you’re unsure about so that you can become sure about them. You can find more information about signing up for TSA pre-check here.

Mount Your Phone (or Tablet) in front of You

While you are watching the entertainment on your phone or your tablet, I recommend a mold to make the hours a little bit more bearable. I have no issue holding my phone up and watching a video, but if I’m gonna be watching some thing for a few hours then I would like a proper place for it. I personally like mounts like bees because they are on the slimmer side.

Have Travel Insurance, Just in Case

Another popular and well-needed comfort item when planning air travel is travel insurance. Knowing that you’re covered in case of any travel delays and that flight interruptions won’t be a big hit to your bank, travel insurance is worth its weight in peace of mind. There are plenty of options out there and depending on who you are, where you’re from and where you are going, the options available to you vary.

Stay Hydrated & Moisturized

The air inside airplanes is dry and that means your lips and hands are going to feel the lack of moisture in your environment. Carrying chapstick, bar lotion, and a collapsible water bottle can let you stay hydrated & moisturized. I know it’s annoying to need to pee on a plane, but being dehydrated while on one is much worse.

Body Wipes

Looking for a way to feel refreshed on a long travel day? Use some wipes! Body wipes come in handy when you’re only a few hours into your travels and already feeling funky. Taking a moment to refresh yourself will definitely have you feeling better than the sour mood being dirty can put you in. These definitely do not replace a shower, but when you still have multiple hours of travel left it does help you feel good.

Did I Mention Any of Your Favorites?

Depending on the type of travel day ahead you may not need all of these items, but if your travel day is especially long having a few comfort items is better than none. Did I mention any of your favorite items or is there something that definitely deserves a spot on the list? Let me know in the comments below so I could add it to my next travel day.

Digital Nomad Travel Planning