Chris and I have our 20th wedding anniversary coming up, so we decided to take a big cruise around Japan. Chris minored in Asian studies and took Japanese at Furman University but never had the chance to visit any of the countries in Southeast Asia, let alone Japan, so we thought this would be the perfect opportunity to check those boxes on our travel bucket list. Since we had previously only taken the long plane ride to Frankfurt, Germany over 16 years ago and then more recently the longer flights from Atlanta to Alaska, this is really our first big long flight so I wanted to be ready.
Fortunately, for these two flights there and back we are in a position to sit in the more comfortable seats. We will fly out to South Korea (our cruise departs from Icheon) in First Class and we will fly back from Tokyo in the fancy Delta One seats. So, we definitely should be on the more comfortable side but, all the same, I wanted to make sure that we had everything that we need to have a successful long flight. After much research, I have come up with what I think is the best, most comprehensive list (let's go head to toe):
1) Noise Cancelling Headphones: For a flight of any length, noise cancelling headphones are a must. Both Chris and I already own AirPods Max and, while they are expensive (over $500), we have no regrets about the cost. There are, however, more economical brands available on Amazon. Beats has a really good competitor to Apple with their On-Ear Bluetooth Headphones priced at $130-175. Soundcore has decent over the ear headphones with decent noise cancelation for around $50.
2) Sleep Mask: Depending on the airline or the status of your tickets, you might receive a Sleep Mask at your seat. But, you might want to go ahead and grab a nicer pair for your trip and for you to use later in the hotel or cruise ship stateroom. Priced at between $15-20, it is easy to find an affordable sleep mask.
3) Neck Pillow: Even in a lie-flat business or first class seat, a good neck pillow can make a meaningful difference for the hours when you are sitting upright. Look for memory foam options that pack down small. Many are available on Amazon in the $20-35 range and are well worth having for a 10+ hour journey.
4) Compression Socks: On long flights, circulation becomes a real concern. Compression socks help keep the blood moving in your legs and feet and can significantly reduce swelling and fatigue. They are especially important on flights of 8 hours or longer. You can find comfortable, travel-specific compression socks on Amazon for around $15-20.
5) Comfortable Travel Clothes: What you wear on a long flight matters more than most people realize. You want to be comfortable enough to sleep in your outfit but still look presentable when you land. I always recommend soft, breathable fabrics. For women, sports bras or no-wire bras are very affordable on Amazon and wash much more easily than a wired bra. I definitely plan on wearing one of my no-wire bras during our flights.
6) Shoulder Bag or Daypack: This is an item that I already had in my possession and use regularly. While for Caribbean cruises I take my beach bag on the plane and to the cruise, I plan on having my daypack for the longer plane ride and because it will serve a better purpose while we are visiting the many sights of South Korea and Japan. At around $25, the shoulder pack that I found on Amazon and have been using for years has been well worth it.
7) Collapsible Water Bottle: While you can't take a bottle of water through security, as soon as you get through you can find a water bottle filler. With your handy collapsible water bottle, it becomes really easy to keep your thirst quenched. And, you will likely get thirsty up in the dry air, especially on a 10+ hour flight. We have a couple that we like to use. Some are easier to clean than others so read the reviews carefully before purchasing.
8) Toiletry Bag with Hand Lotion and Lip Balm: The recycled air on long flights is extremely drying. Pack a small toiletry bag with travel-sized hand lotion, lip balm, and any skincare products you use regularly. Your skin will thank you, especially after 10+ hours in the air. Many airlines in first and business class will provide a small amenity kit, but having your own favorites is always a good backup.
9) Snacks: Even in first class or Delta One, you may find yourself hungry between meal services or craving something specific. Pack a few of your favorite portable snacks — nuts, protein bars, or dried fruit — so you are never caught hungry without options. This is especially important if you have dietary restrictions or preferences that may not align perfectly with the in-flight menu.
10) Sleep Aids: For a very long flight crossing multiple time zones, a mild sleep aid can be a game changer. Melatonin is a popular, natural option that helps reset your body clock. Some travelers prefer Unisom or Benadryl. Whatever your preference, having something to help you sleep on the plane means you will arrive feeling significantly more rested and ready to hit the ground running on your adventure.
If you are looking to go on that fabulous bucket list style trip, I would love to help you plan it. Please let me know how I can help to check off some of the items on your bucket list.