How To Pack Your Carry-On For An Overnight Flight

Ugh. Those dreaded overnight flights can be so incredibly unbearable and downright uncomfortable. But if you want to travel overseas, you don’t have many options. I’m a diva sleeper so it’s especially hard for me to get comfortable, much less sleep, sitting upright on a plane. I have some tips for packing long flight travel essentials that will help you make the most of it. As a travel writer, I’ve taken many overnight flights and experienced plenty of mishaps throughout the years — some of which could have even been prevented if I had planned or packed accordingly. The good news is that I’ve untapped some secrets for getting business class seats for cheap.

Overnight flights can be a blessing or a curse, depending on how well-prepared you are. Packing the right essentials in your carry-on can make all the difference in ensuring a restful journey and arriving at your destination feeling refreshed. Here’s a list of must-haves for your next red-eye flight.

My overnight flight essentials

Comfort & Sleep Essentials

1. Neck Pillow – A supportive neck pillow helps you avoid awkward sleeping positions and post-flight soreness. I have an entire bin of travel pillows because I’ve never been able to find the right one. But with this neck pillow, I hit the jackpot! It’s a bit on the pricey side, but trust me, it will ensure a good night’s sleep!
2. Eye Mask – Blocking out cabin lights and screen glare will help you get some shut-eye. Here’s my favorite sleep mask.
3. Earplugs or Noise-Canceling Headphones – Minimize noise from chatty passengers and engine hum for a peaceful sleep with a good set of noise cancelling headphones. Whenever someone asks me, “What’s the one thing you’d take to a deserted island?” The answer for me is always earplugs. I’m a light sleeper, so earplugs (under my noise-cancelling headphones) are a must. 
4. Lightweight Blanket or Large Scarf – Airplane cabins can get chilly, so pack a cozy layer for warmth. Hot flashes aside, I’ve always tended to get chilly on planes —  especially on overnight flights. Mer-Sea & Co. recently won me over with their fabulous travel wrap, one of my must-have accessories for long-haul flights. Unlike those icky airline-issued blankets, it’s cozy and stylish (and clean), and one of the best travel essentials for women.  It’s also a great all-around wrap that I can keep in my tote for chilly restaurants or breezy days. 
5. Compression Socks – These help with circulation and prevent swelling during long flights.
6. Slippers – Take slippers to wear on the plane. I certainly don’t need to tell you not to walk barefoot or in socks to the restroom. Gross! I never travel anywhere without a pair of slippers – in fact, I have an entire collection of hotel slippers and they’re lightweight enough to pack in my carry-on. Choose folding slippers with a case like these.
7. Comfortable clothes – Wear comfortable clothes but skip the sweats please. Okay, let’s talk about proper travel attire and long flight travel essentials. Yes, you can still look like a sophisticated traveler while traveling in comfy clothes so skip the ratty clothes you won’t even wear to the grocery store. There are so many great companies making respectable travel outfits these days. MerSea is one of my favorites, but I do love the athletic pants at Athleta and LuluLemon. I generally wear stretchy cargo pants (those side pockets come in handy), a t-shirt, and lightweight jacket.
8. Take a hammock. What? A hammock? On a plane? You bet! One of the reasons most people can’t get comfortable on a plane is the seating position, upright, with your legs at a 90 degree angle. There are several foot slings on the market that take the pressure off your butt and back so you can relax. For me, it’s part of long flight travel essentials for comfort. This is my favorite foot hammock.

Toiletries & Personal Care

6. Face Wipes & Moisturizer – Rehydrate your skin, which can dry out due to cabin air. Here’s my little secret: I collect sample sizes of my favorite cosmetics and use those on flights.
7. Toothbrush & Travel-Sized Toothpaste – Freshen up before landing to feel more awake and presentable. Because I’m all about cuteness, and pink, when I travel, here’s my favorite set.
8. Lip Balm – Prevent chapped lips caused by dry air.
9. Hand cream – The air on planes is quite dry!
10. Deodorant – A quick refresh before arrival goes a long way.
11. Mini Hairbrush or Comb – Tame bedhead before stepping off the plane.
    

Health & Wellness

11. Hydration Bottle – A reusable water bottle (preferably collapsible) keeps you hydrated throughout the flight. Take your own water bottle. Don’t count on flight attendants to bring you water throughout the night, and you don’t want to disturb sleeping seatmates to get up. I’m a big fan of the collapsible water bottles that don’t take up too much space. This is one of my essential items.
12. Healthy Snacks – Nuts, protein bars, or dried fruit can help curb hunger when in-flight meals aren’t satisfying.
13. Melatonin or Sleep Aid – If you struggle with sleeping on planes, a natural supplement can help.
14. Hand Sanitizer & Disinfecting Wipes – Keep germs at bay by wiping down tray tables and armrests.
15. Pain Relievers & Medication – Always have necessary medications on hand in case of headaches or discomfort.

Entertainment & Productivity

16. E-Reader or Book – A great way to pass the time if you’re unable to sleep.
17. Downloaded Movies or Podcasts – In case the in-flight entertainment isn’t appealing.
18. Notebook & Pen – I’m a self-proclaimed travel journal junkie (say that fast!). I always have a notebook to jot down travel plans, journal, or brainstorm ideas while flying. And naturally, my journals are always travel-inspired. Here are some of my favorite journals.
19. Chargers & Power Bank – Keep your devices powered up during long-haul flights.
20. Travel Documents & Essentials – Keep your passport, ID, boarding pass, and any necessary visas in an easily accessible place. I love having a brightly colored passport holder so it’s easy to spot in my bag.

Packing smart can transform your overnight flight into a more pleasant and restful experience. With these essentials in your carry-on, you’ll arrive at your destination ready to explore and enjoy!

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Tips for getting sleep on an overnight flight

Getting quality sleep on an overnight flight can be challenging, but a few key strategies can help you rest more comfortably. Start by selecting the right seat—window seats are ideal since they provide something to lean against and prevent disturbances from passengers needing to move in and out of the row. If possible, choose a seat away from high-traffic areas like the galley or restrooms to minimize noise and disruptions. Dress in comfortable, breathable layers to adjust to fluctuating cabin temperatures, and bring essentials like a supportive neck pillow, an eye mask, and noise-canceling headphones or earplugs to block out distractions. Adjust your watch to your destination’s time zone to help mentally prepare for the new schedule, and avoid caffeine or heavy meals before attempting to sleep. Instead, opt for a light snack and stay hydrated with water, as airplane cabins can be dehydrating, but be mindful not to drink too much right before sleeping to avoid frequent bathroom trips. A travel blanket or large scarf can help keep you warm and cozy, and using a meditation or sleep app with calming sounds may further ease you into rest. To avoid unnecessary wake-ups, fasten your seatbelt over your blanket so flight attendants won’t need to disturb you during turbulence checks. Finally, practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation to help your body unwind, and try to stick to your normal sleep routine as much as possible. With a little preparation, you can maximize your rest and arrive at your destination feeling more refreshed.

Do you have any must-pack items for overnight flights? Share your go-to travel essentials in the comments!

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