10 Jetsetter-Approved Essentials for Long-Haul Flights

When pioneers Orville and Wilbur Wright invented the first successful plane in 1903, we wonder if they knew (or could have even imagined) the lengths modern aviation would go. In 2018, Singapore Airlines debuted the longest nonstop commercial flight on record—a whopping 17 hours and 50 minutes—which travels between New York and Singapore. Obviously, flying is amazing. It connects us to faraway lands and makes the world feel much smaller. Though spending that many hours at an altitude of 35,000 feet, dealing with cabin pressure, and breathing in recycled air isn't so great for your overall well-being. So, what can you do to bring a little bit of self-care to the skies?

Experts advise wiping down germ-riddled tray tables and touch screens and opening the air vent above your seat to avoid contact with sickness-causing microbes. Guzzling plenty of H2O is the key to combating dehydration. On that note, do yourself a favor and abstain from booze—yes, sadly, even the free wine on international adventures should be turned down in the name of good health. It's also a wise idea to stand up and stretch your legs every two hours. (Blood clots and muscle cramps are a real concern.)

Indeed, getting into the routine of practicing healthy in-flight habits is important. But frequent flyers know that setting the tone for a first-class journey starts before stepping foot on the plane. We're talking about having an arsenal of wellness essentials packed and ready to go. From face mist and reusable water bottles to silk sleep masks and noise-canceling headphones, these are the items you should pack in your carry-on for every long-haul flight.

Noise-cancelling headphones block out the sounds of screaming babies, chatty seatmates, and snoring passengers. If snoozing between destinations matters to you, this best-in-class pair is the one to purchase.

Sony 1000XM2 Premium Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones, $349.99, bestbuy.com.

Purchased an economy ticket? Sadly, your seat won't recline into a bed. However, that shouldn't preclude you from enjoying a restful slumber. Put on this silk mask and prepare to fall soundly asleep before meal service.

Slip Silk Sleep Mask, $50, shopbop.com.

Not falling victim to colds and viruses while traveling is a constant struggle. Luckily, these lozenges make it a little easier. Powered by zinc, elderberry extract, and vitamin C, they're a tasty way to support your immune system.

Nature's Way Organic Sambucus Zinc Lozenges, $5.49, walgreens.com.

Washing your face with non-potable water in the cramped airplane lavatory probably isn't going to happen. The more doable alternative? These convenient cleansing pads that remove makeup, dirt, and pollution in a snap.

This Works "In Transit No Traces" Face Pads, $31, dermstore.com.

On-the-go gals (and guys) never fly without face mist. This deliciously scented blend of soothing watermelon, brightening hibiscus, and thirst-quenching hyaluronic acid is a premium pick. Spritz it on whenever your complexion needs a little extra TLC.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Ultra-Fine Mist, $28, sephora.com.

Antioxidant-rich matcha (a type of fine powdered green tea) has tons of health benefits. Each portable packet contains 50mg of caffeine, plus grass-fed collagen. It's the perfect beauty-boosting pick me up.

Vital Proteins Matcha Collagen Travel Stick, $39, vitalproteins.com.

Our favorite high-altitude indulgence? We love slapping on Farmacy's hydrating sheet mask and blissing out for 20 minutes. You might get a few weird looks from total strangers, but it's worth it for fresh, baby-soft skin.

Farmacy Hydrating Coconut Gel Sheet Mask, $6, sephora.com.

We can't overstress the importance of staying hydrated on long-haul flights! Insert LARQ, the first self-cleaning water bottle with a built-in purification system. Sure, it's expensive, but, in our humble opinion, you can't put a price on H20 quality and peace of mind.

LARQ "The LARQ Bottle" Purifying Water Bottle, $95, livelarq.com.

Whether you're dealing with dry cuticles, flyaways, or chapped lips, it's this all-purpose beauty balm to the rescue. This multitasker contains super nourishing ingredients like organic sunflower oil and calendula.

The Honest Company Organic All-Purpose Balm, $12.95, honest.com.